By Erin G.
Thanks to our sponsors, attendees, volunteers, and staff, Grow with JEVS was a huge success! Held at Water Works in Philadelphia, this 2nd annual fundraising event consisted of a cocktail reception, dinner, and entertainment. Key speakers included Dan Fitzpatrick, Mid-Atlantic President of Citizens; Laurie Franz, Chair of JEVS Board of Directors; Cynthia Figueroa, JEVS President & CEO; Revena Washington, JEVS ambassador; and Heather Keafer, JEVS’ Chief of Communications & External Affairs. Among the distinguished guests were Pennsylvania State Senator Jimmy Dillon and Councilmember Rue Landau, who contributed to the festive atmosphere with their presence and support.
Reflecting on Growth and Developments
Emcee Heather Keafer led the opening presentation and highlighted JEVS accomplishments over the last year. Click here to see the JEVS video. Laurie Franz praised the opportunities that JEVS provides as it explores ways to expand its services. “As we address our communities’ most pressing challenges,” she said, “we must continue to grow our network, grow our partnerships, grow our services, and grow solutions.”
Cynthia Figueroa previewed JEVS strategic plan, to be unveiled in full later this summer. She addressed JEVS’ focus on increasing services to youth, growing healthcare programs, expanding geographically, and fostering financial stability. She also announced that, “just last week, JEVS was selected as one of four organizations globally for an investment from ServiceNow.”
Welcoming Generous Sponsors
JEVS is grateful to all the sponsors who supported Grow with JEVS – thank you! Citizens, presenting sponsor, continues its long-standing partnership with JEVS. Dan Fitzpatrick stressed the importance of a thriving Philadelphia workforce and a healthy local economy. He also emphasized the role that JEVS plays in providing vital services for the city.
Hearing Ambassador Testimony
Speaking of her personal and professional experience with JEVS over 15 years, Revena Washington gave a moving speech about the impact the organization has on individuals. From being a program participant to becoming an employee, Revena has earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration and today is a Clinical Services Supervisor for JEVS. She specifically thanked the JEVS employees who supported and encouraged her: “they believed in the future me; embraced the current me; and helped me let go of the old me. They showed me that I had the ability to conquer the world.”
Fueling the Future
At JEVS, we continue working with individuals to create sustainable paths to independence and economic security.
However, we can’t do it alone. Your contribution, no matter the size, can make a significant difference in our ability to reach more people and create a lasting impact. When you donate today, you help JEVS provide services for more than 16,000 individuals every year. Together, we can help every person achieve personal independence and fulfillment.
Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to a memorable evening. Click here to see the event gallery. Be sure to follow @jevshumanservices for future updates, news, and ways to get involved!
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