Installations, Recognitions and Awards Celebrated
On June 11, Jewish Family Service of Atlantic & Cape May Counties (JFS) hosted its Annual Meeting which provided an opportunity for staff, Board members, volunteers, and supporters to come together and hear about the state of the agency, installations, donor recognition, volunteer appreciation, and staff awards.
“Each year, JFS assists over 15,000 people with programs and services including food, counseling, vocational, housing and more,” said Andrea Steinberg, JFS’ Chief Executive Officer. “Our staff works diligently to assure we collectively represent and achieve our mission and vision every day.”
During the state of the agency speech, Andrea shared challenges the social service sector is facing in this profound time of uncertainty and transition regarding programs and services. In addition, she emphasized how thankful JFS is for their many current supporters and how we are working to secure new funding sources through grants.
During the meeting, Matt Simpson presented Aaron R. Sykes with the distinguished President’s Award for his commitment to the community and agency. For the past six years, Aaron has dedicated himself to JFS by serving on the Board of Directors and entrenching himself in programs, services, and fundraisers as well as the agency’s multi-year strategic plan. Additionally, he serves on the Board’s Planning & Impact Steering Committee and Strategic Partnerships Committee. He also leads by example when it comes to volunteerism. Whether at a food drive, day of service, or helping stock the pantry, Aaron, his wife, and daughters, can always be counted on to assist JFS.
In addition, Matt presented the President’s Award for Innovation and Compassion to the American Red Cross New Jersey Region for furthering JFS’ mission through unwavering dedication to help our community in meaningful and multifaceted ways. As an invaluable JFS partner, last year, the Red Cross donated a sprinter van, which now serves as a critical tool in expanding our mobile outreach services and food distribution efforts. In addition, Red Cross volunteers have stepped up time and again whether supporting events or lending a hand in the pantry.
Throughout the years, JFS and the Red Cross have worked cohesively to assist countless families affected by disasters providing emergency relief and compassionate care. As Matt said, “The Red Cross represents the very essence of the award – action rooted in empathy, innovation that drives service, and a true commitment to the community.”
Then, Melissa Rosenblum, Esq. was sworn in as JFS’ Board President to serve a two-year term. Adam Steinberg will join Sarah Rosenthal as Board Vice President, Aaron R. Sykes will serve as Treasurer, and Eric Goldberg is in the role of Secretary. In addition, Michael Goldberg and Wendy Goldberg were sworn onto the Board of Directors for one-year terms. The agency also extended a heartfelt thank you to outgoing Board President Matthew Simpson and Board member Colin Bell for their hard work and dedication to JFS and the community.
Melissa spoke about being a criminal defense attorney and seeing first-hand the complex challenges people face. “Many of my clients don’t just need legal help, they need mental health support, access to food and housing, and a sense of stability. That’s where JFS comes in and often serves as the safety net that catches people when everything else has fallen away. The work being done at JFS isn’t theoretical or abstract—it’s real, vital, and it positively changes lives.”
As the meeting progressed, JFS Senior Director of Communications & Donor Relations Beth Joseph welcomed new agency donors – Sheila & Alan Friedman, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, Michele Kramer Sloane & Peter Sloane, and NFP ~ An Aon Company. Additionally, she thanked current agency donors who increased their pledge commitment – Arlene Groch, Mitchell Gurwicz, and Morgan Stanley – The Malamut Group.
The agency also recognized Linda & Mark Held as the 2025 Volunteers of the Year. As JFS Volunteer Services Supervisor Nancy Mitnick shared, “This year, one couple stood out—not just for the hours they’ve given, but for the compassion, consistency, and spirit they bring to every interaction. After being introduced to JFS by a friend and fellow volunteer, this couple jumped in without hesitation, becoming dependable, weekly volunteers. Whether they are stocking and organizing the pantry, assembling specialty food bags for people with dietary restrictions, or delivering Kosher meals, their presence is always felt with warmth, kindness, and humility.”
With 185 employees, Chief Operating Officer Ann Thoresen and Chief Financial Officer Katherine Gorno-Marcos recognized 19 staff members celebrating work anniversaries from five years to 35 years with the agency.
Lastly, JFS Senior Director of Human Resources & Information Technology Greg Rosenblit announced the staff awards. The winners were: Community Impact Award – Atlantic Housing Alliance Housing Coordinator Michelle Hartman, Heart & Soul Award – Atlantic Housing Alliance Case Manager Carolyn Runkle, Outstanding Service Award – Executive Administrative Assistant Breanne Rybak and Atlantic Housing Alliance Case Manager Briana Simon, and the Leadership Award was presented to Atlantic Homeless Alliance Director Erin Bowes.
For information on JFS programs, services or employment opportunities, visit www.jfsatlantic.org. For information on volunteer opportunities, contact volunteer@jfsatlantic.org.
