Keshet Named JCFS Chicago’s 2026 Partner of the Year

JCFS Chicago named Keshet its Community Partner of the year at its Annual Meeting held at its West Rogers Park location on Tuesday, September 8.

"We share clients, we share staff, and we share communities of people whose only wish is to be empowered," said JCFS Chicago President and CEO Stacey Shor. "And, I can honestly say we share something even more important: respect, a deep respect for each other and a genuine friendship."

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Several team members from Keshet attended the meeting, and CEO Jen Phillips accepted the award.

"By working together, we are making a greater difference in the lives of families, and also strengthening our community," Jen said. "We collaborate on how to best serve the families who rely on both of our services."

The Keshet team sends families in need of counseling to JCFS clinicians and refers adults looking for customized employment to JCFS' Duman Opportunity Center, while JCFS recommends Keshet's camps, GADOL, and social programs to families. Residential managers from each agency collaborate and assist each other when needed, and Keshet's teachers and related services staff attend JCFS learning opportunities.

When Keshet needed a location for its First Friends program for parents and babies with developmental delays or complex medical concerns, JCFS provided its Northbrook office and the two agencies made it a joint program.

"On behalf of everyone at Keshet and our Board of Directors, thank you for recognizing Keshet and what we are accomplishing as partners," Jen said. "Together, we are creating a more inclusive and thoughtful Chicago Jewish community."