Now more than ever, personalized advice matters
Meeting the Moment, Planning Ahead
By Julie Loftis In February, staff and board members of Jewish Family Services( JFS) of Greater Charlotte came together to reflect, listen, and look ahead. The conversations started with a simple but powerful question: What will our community need next? From that gathering emerged a newly approved three-year strategic plan. One that builds on JFS’ s legacy of care and positions the organization to meet the evolving needs of the community through 2026 and beyond.
At its core, the plan is about growth with purpose. One of the most significant areas of focus is behavioral health. The need for mental health services continues to grow, with demand for therapy increasing year after year. Building on the work of the Resiliency Roundtable and its child and youth mental health plan, three generous donors, Hal and Holly Levinson, David and Cindy Crane and an anonymous donor, have made it possible for a JFS therapist to work directly within partner organizations, providing direct support to children and youth. The plan also expands resources for parents navigating their children’ s emotional health.
JFS has also seen steady growth in demand from older adults and will be recruiting an additional therapist specializing in senior care. The organization is also expanding its broader commitment to older adults and caregivers, including increased caregiver support to ensure that connection, legacy, and care continue. In addition, JFS will explore partnerships to expand emotional support services, including medication management, substance abuse treatment, special needs care, and placebased therapy.
JFS is acutely aware that changes in federal policy( cuts to Medicaid and SNAP) will impact the availability of resources, especially for those struggling financially. As such, JFS will evaluate the current structure and resources of its case management, food pantry and Tzedakah fund to ensure its ability to support members of the Jewish community impacted by these changes.
At the same time, JFS is committed to meeting the broader social service needs of the community through partnerships, connections to community resources, and direct service. Gaps in services will inevitably remain and the organization will continue to explore opportunities to address them. To support this growth, JFS will also evaluate its infrastructure needs, including space, administrative support, and long-term financial planning.
While strategic plans often live on paper, this one is rooted in something more immediate and human: the real experiences of people in the community. It is
Now more than ever, personalized advice matters
a road map shaped by listening, grounded in the understanding that needs are changing, challenges are evolving, and support
The Charlotte Jewish News- June- July 2026- Page 25
must progress alongside them.
As JFS looks toward the future, the message is clear: the work is not just continuing, it’ s expanding, deepening, and adapting. Because behind every goal, every initiative, and every strategy is the same commitment that has guided the organization for more than 40 years: to strengthen individuals, support families, and build a community where everyone can thrive.
The L / A Wealth Management Group
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704.705.3332
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