fbpx
Programs JEVS Care at Home About Support JEVS

Tag: JEVS

This Giving Tuesday, support our toy drive!

Posted on by Erin Giberson

JEVS Human Services (JEVS) works with individuals to create sustainable paths to independence and
economic security. The JEVS network of services provides career and technical education,
workforce development, home care, and human services for 19,000 individuals annually. We continue the
work started over 80 years ago to address today’s most challenging issues.

This #GivingTuesday, join us in making a difference for local families! We’ve created an Amazon Wishlist where you can purchase a gift directly for our clients. It’s a way to give back this holiday season and bring joy to those who need it most. 

We’re grateful for your support of our programs and services. Thank you for your contribution to our Giving Tuesday toy drive!

Visit the JEVS Amazon Wishlist 

 

Celebrating JEVS Employee Milestones

Posted on by Erin Giberson

By JEVS Staff

At JEVS Human Services, many of the nearly 2,000 employees are long-standing. Whether they’ve been here for a few years or a few decades, JEVS staff is dedicated to helping people get education, jobs, and vital services.

To honor employees reaching 20 to 40 years of service, JEVS held its Milestone Recognition Event at the Philadelphia Ethical Society. In total, 32 employees were recognized.

Giving the keynote remarks, JEVS President and CEO Cynthia Figueroa said, “We’re celebrating 20-, 25-, 30-, 35-, and 40-year milestones! Think about what that means. If in the last year we were able to reach 16000 individuals – in just one year – think about 40 times that number: the countless lives that have been touched, changed, supported, and cared for during the years of service by these JEVS employees.”

Direct managers for the honorees gave introductions and presented the milestone awards.

Speaking of her experience, 20-year milestone honoree Crystal Shaw shared, “I just want to say that I am truly grateful and blessed to work for JEVS.” She also thanked her daughter who flew in from Los Angeles to see her mom receive her milestone award.

Robert Herrmann is a JEVS Facilities employee who was recognized for 40 years of service. His current supervisor Damaris Feliciano, VP of Facilities, said that Robert “is an invaluable asset to the facilities team and to JEVS. He knows every aspect of OTC!”
Following the ceremony, everyone enjoyed a reception to celebrate the honorees.

Congratulations to the following employees for their dedication and service!

20 years of service

Crystal Shaw
David Henderson
Pamela Williams
Jacqueline Stabler
Yolanda Gray
Sean Carroll
Kendra Green
Diana Seijo
Oksana Ruzhinskaya
Karen Brownley
Sameerah Sellers

25 years of service

Debbie Bello
Thomas Henderson
Lisa Currie-Rivers
Charmaine Campbell
Twana Jones
Leonid Bord
Kimberley Harrington
Niakya Norris

30 years of service

Pauline baker
Veronica Thomas
Michelle Fulmore
Mary Sloane
Joan English
Sylvia Ocasio
Francisco Caban-Vialliz
Katrina Tillery

35 years of service

Lillia Dukhovny
Carolyn Allen
Linda Womack
Tyrone Brown

40 years of service

Robert Herrmann

JEVS Independence Network 2024 Annual Picnic: Celebrating a Growing Community

Posted on by Erin Giberson

By JEVS Staff

JEVS Independence Network provides co-ed living communities for adults with disabilities. Members receive personalized support for independent living, social connection, community engagement, and employment.

The JEVS Independence Network held its 2024 Annual Picnic at the Cooper River Yacht Club in Collingswood, NJ. Participants and families came together to celebrate the program and the community. Since beginning in 2011, the JEVS Independence Network has grown to include locations in Narberth, PA, and Collingswood, NJ. A third location in Ambler, PA, is accepting new members. The annual picnic offers a time for everyone from each location to spend time together, meet other members, and have fun.

The Cooper River Yacht Club offered an indoor gathering space, covered seating area, and outdoor activity area with a view of the Philadelphia skyline. Attendees also set up chairs along the lawn to chat and enjoy the warm, sunny weather.

Members were able to enjoy lunch; complete a “Get to Know You” scavenger hunt activity; paint pumpkins; take pictures at a photo wall; play bocce and other games; and sing karaoke. They also had the opportunity to take a ride in an open-air roadster.

Many people praised the quality of the program, calling it “life-changing” for participants. The supportive nature of the community has motivated several families to move to the area. Families shared stories about the jobs that members have started, the guidance from their mentors, the friendships they’ve made, and their busy social calendars.

Thank you to the staff, families, and members for a wonderful event! To learn more about the JEVS Independence Network, please visit: https://www.jevshumanservices.org/program/independence-network-program/

 

Celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)

Posted on by Erin Giberson

By JEVS Staff

Every October, the United States celebrates National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). This month recognizes the important contributions of people with disabilities in the workforce and promotes fair hiring practices.

The theme for this year is “Access to Good Jobs for All.” This theme focuses on making sure every individual has the chance to find fulfilling jobs. When companies offer equal access to jobs, they create better workplaces and help our communities grow stronger.

Despite some progress, many people with disabilities still face challenges when looking for jobs. JEVS is dedicated to creating a workplace that values all employees, including those with disabilities. Through programs such as the JEVS Independence Network, hireAbility, Community Participation, and Assistive Technology Services, we support adults with disabilities in gaining meaningful employment. We work with employer partners who promote inclusion and support the needs of all employees.

NDEAM is a time to reflect on how we can better support employees with disabilities. With the theme of “Access to Good Jobs for All,” we emphasize the importance of creating opportunities for everyone.

Let’s continue to acknowledge the valuable contributions of people with disabilities and build workplaces where everyone succeeds.

The Unmatched Dedication of JEVS Direct Support Professionals

Posted on by Rossella Alla

By Erin G.

A Direct Support Professional (DSP) plays a vital role in supporting people with disabilities, both at home and in their communities. They help individuals try new activities and build social connections. DSPs make sure that healthcare needs are met, including managing doctor appointments and medications.

They offer emotional support during difficult times and encourage activities that bring happiness. DSPs assist with self-care, home management, and learning life skills. They also arrange transportation for community events, outings, and errands. For some individuals, DSPs provide support 24/7 throughout the year. Their work is essential for improving the well-being and independence of those they assist.

At JEVS, DSPs go beyond caregiving. They manage many responsibilities to support each person’s independence and ability to make their own choices and lead fulfilling lives. Many JEVS DSPs are long-standing employees whose dedication is unmatched.

Meet Temika P.

Temika is a Direct Support Professional (DSP) with a lot of experience in the industry. She has worked at JEVS for 15 years, and she and her team support a community home where three women live together.

When Temika talks about her work as a DSP, she shares stories about activities that the residents, whom she affectionately calls “her ladies”, have done. To celebrate a resident’s birthday, Temika took the resident to get her nails done. She arranged for one to visit her favorite casino accompanied by another staff member. She took them all on a special day trip to the beach and boardwalk. Temika credits her coworkers for how well they work together to cover shifts and do fun things together. She says, “We’re not just out here because we’re on the clock. My joy comes from

seeing their joy.” Temika encourages them to try different activities and makes sure they feel supported. She adds, “I consider the people I take care of my family.” Temika is a Certified Nurse Aid (CNA) and recently earned her DSP – II certification from The National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP). A DSP certification offers more than just on-the-job training. It provides specialized education for supporting individuals with disabilities. This certification tests skills in caregiving, assistance, and promoting independence.

The most important part, Temika says, is having patience, being compassionate, and encouraging each other.

Meet Karen J.

Karen has spent a lot of time helping people with mental health and care needs. In 2018, she joined JEVS to continue helping others.

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP), Karen manages a home with three residents who receive around-the-clock care. She works hard to make sure they feel comfortable, respected, and supported. This means managing daily activities like medical appointments, meals, and housekeeping.

Karen works with residents who have different ways of communicating. Some can speak, and others cannot. She tries hard to connect with everyone and involves them in fun activities. She also helps residents learn how to do things like cleaning up after their meals or picking up their rooms. For the ones who have the ability, this encouragement helps them become more independent and feel proud of themselves.

One special moment for Karen was when she helped a resident who had trouble moving and talking. Karen set up a spa day for her, even though she wasn’t sure how the resident would react. The day was a big hit, and the resident had a great time. For Karen, it was heartwarming to see the resident’s visible joy. Karen also completed additional training and earned her DSP – III certification from The National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP). This certification course provides more education and tests the way a DSP responds to different situations.

DSPs should care for people as they would want to be cared for themselves. Karen says, you have to be humble, you have to be patient, and you have to listen”. It’s more than showing up for a job. It’s about truly caring for and helping people. Karen’s dedication shows her compassion and desire to make a positive difference in the lives of the people she supports.

Meet Penny W.

Penny has been with JEVS since 1999 when she was hired to work with people in their homes. Throughout the years, she has held other positions and has coached residents at their jobs. She loves helping people and has worked directly in residential care for the last ten years.

Penny is a Direct Support Professional (DSP) and works with three women who receive round-the-clock care. She and other staff provide support for daily care and housekeeping needs. They also arrange for fun outings and coordinate with a day program for one of the residents.

Penny speaks Spanish, which helps her connect with the residents who are Spanish speakers. They feel more comfortable talking to her in their own language. One of the women speaks Spanish with Penny because it puts her at ease.

The job of a DSP is about more than managing daily tasks. Penny does extra things like making holidays special by decorating and cooking traditional Spanish dishes. She remembers how one resident loved to see the Christmas lights, and how everyone compliments how she decorates and organizes their home. Penny says she loves to see them happy and that “they make my heart melt.”

Penny knows that being a DSP is not for everyone. It requires someone who can support residents in a way that shows respect and compassion. She says, “in order for you to be doing this kind of job you need to have patience and love, and you need to care.”

Being a DSP is important to Penny. She finds her work very rewarding because she cares about her residents, not just the paycheck. She has also gotten to know the families of some of her residents, and she is touched when the women want to hug her or even call her when she’s not there. She says, “it means so much because I love my ladies. We have that connection.”

 

LinkedIn’s Social Impact Team Awards Grant to JEVS to Support Workforce Development

Posted on by Erin Giberson

By Erin G.

JEVS Human Services (JEVS) has received a grant from LinkedIn’s Social Impact Team. This grant provides LinkedIn Premium codes to nonprofits with programs that help people find jobs and gain financial stability. These Premium codes support job seekers who use LinkedIn to find positions, submit applications, and connect with employers.

JEVS offers specialized skills and job training programs for unemployed and underemployed individuals, older adults, refugees, and those who are justice-involved. Participants in these programs working with career counselors will receive the donated LinkedIn Premium codes.

Peggy Truitt, Senior VP of JEVS Workforce Development says, “JEVS Human Services was thrilled to receive a LinkedIn grant to benefit our clients who are overcoming barriers. Without it, LinkedIn premium memberships wouldn’t be affordable for our job seekers.” She adds that “in addition to having an online profile, they will have access to online skills training videos. These resources help with how to build a network, learn about employers, and join groups with the same career interests.”

Thanks to LinkedIn and LinkedIn’s Social Media Impact Team, JEVS will be able to provide additional resources for participants who are searching for jobs.

From IT Training to IT Intern: Meet Khandaker  

Posted on by Jade Daniels

JEVS Human Services (JEVS) provides free IT training for qualified individuals interested in obtaining their CompTia A+ and Google certifications. Both certifications provide you with the skills to start your IT career. 

Individuals like Khandaker chose to enroll in JEVS EduConnect’s IT training courses to help him gain skills and guide his career path.  

Khandaker completed the CompTia A+ certificate and credits the skills he learned to his current internship with JEVS in the Information Technology department. In this role, he works directly with JEVS staff to help with technical issues and getting new employees’ computers set up.  

While in his internship, his supervisor encouraged him to enroll in the Google certificate course which is made up of modules, practice questions, labs, and assessments entirely online. He also completed this certificate successfully while maintaining his internship.  

With both certifications completed, Khandaker can integrate the skills he learned into his role at JEVS and throughout his IT career.  

Get started on your free IT training today!  

Congrats, JEVS Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), on your achievements!

Posted on by Rossella Alla

By Erin G. 

Congratulations to JEVS Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) on their DSP I, DSP II, and DSP III certifications! These certification courses test how a DSP responds to different situations. At JEVS, many DSPs complete additional training to gain these certifications. JEVS DSPs go beyond caregiving and manage many responsibilities. 

DSPs do many important things to support people every day. They help with daily tasks like getting dressed, eating, and cleaning. They provide support for going to appointments and taking medication. DSPs also organize rides for outings and activities, and they encourage being part of the community. They are there 24/7 to support individuals, making sure they feel safe and respected while maintaining their independence. 

Thank you to these DSPs on achieving their certifications!

DSP – I Certification 

Robert Brown  

Michael Barnett 

Erica Bantum  

Tanya Brown 

Nicole Bell  

DSP – II Certification 

Warren Akers 

Nikkia Williams   

DSP – III Certification 

Temika Pearson 

Luis Santos Barreto  

Silvanie Joseph  

James Hunt  

Karen Jones   

Gianna McCallough  

Iesha Thompson  

Rosemary ThankGod   

Naiya Messam  

Faith Oyugi  

Robin Weaver-Olabode  

Elizabeth Oglesby   

Rabi Umoru   

Jarrod Anthony   

Fatima Brown 

 

DSPs help people with disabilities in their homes and communities. JEVS celebrates National Direct Support Professional (DSP) Recognition Week from September 8–14, 2024, to honor their important work. 

To learn more about JEVS Home Care and Residential Services, click here.  

C2L-PHL on WURD

Posted on by Rossella Alla

The following is a transcription of an interview hosted by Solomon Jones WURD with Kim McCaffrey, Senior Vice President of Intermediary Services at JEVS Human Services along with Matt Kerr and Shairah Kibler and Matt Kerr form C2L-PHL summer program Beyond the Bars. If you would like to listen to the radio segment, click here.

Solomon Jones: We are joined this morning by Kim McCaffrey from JEVS, Jewish Educational Vocational Services. Good morning.

Kim McCaffrey: Good morning.

Solomon Jones: Okay, and Matthew Kerr and Shairah Kibler from Beyond the Bars, good morning. Alright, so this summer, a lot of young people are getting some experiences working in various programs. Beyond the Bars is one of them, JEVS of course, is running this effort. What are you guys doing this summer Miss McCaffrey?

Kim McCaffrey: Yeah, there’s so much happening this summer. JEVS is now responsible for the City’s initiative for summer work based learning experiences for young people, predominately those in high school. It’s called Career Connected Learning, C2L-PHL.

Solomon Jones: What is C2L-PHL?

Kim McCaffrey: Career Connected Learning Philadelphia.

Solomon Jones: Okay, go ahead.

Kim McCaffrey: So we’re offering paid work experiences for young folks across the city of Philadelphia, in lots of different industries. It’s really intended to help young people learn about the world of work, what they like, what they don’t like, what they’re good at, what they’re not good at, and how do they start to earn some money doing those things. And so Beyond the Bars has been doing some really great work, and offering what, almost 25-30 opportunities this summer, which has been really exciting.

Solomon Jones: Yeah, so Matthew, we’ve met before. I’ve seen you around as we’ve talked about programs that are working to end gun violence in the City of Philadelphia. Yours is a novel approach. What do you do?

Matthew Kerr: Absolutely, thank you so much. Thank you again for having us. So yeah, Beyond the Bars, we began as a music program back in 2015 but it was just a program for youth who were incarcerated back then. But around 2017 we branched out. We started running community-based music programs, and one of our main initiatives was like, one of two things, basically. One is that it was always student driven, and two was that it was community based. And trough our youth voice, they kind of pushed to build out a lot of different music labs throughout the city and partner with a bunch of amazing community orgs that do what we don’t. And today, we have 45 music labs throughout the city in locations ranging from schools and community hubs to rec centers, but also youth centers and trauma clinics. And from that, we’re able to meet youth wherever they’re at. Also as they grow as musicians and

artists, we meet a lot of amazing young leaders. We’re with one right now, Shairah, when we met her at her high school, was already a nasty musician, but now she’s in our summer program, our student teacher program. Basically, we meet young people all over the city from all of our programs and identify them like, hey they want to help mentor and lead others. They go through an awesome six-week course thank to JEVS, where they learn about how to teach using social emotional learning, how to teach using trauma informed practices, as well as how to, you know, teach instruments, productions, DJ and MCing, all those different things.

Solomon Jones: Well that sounds fantastic, I want to hear from Shirah though. Shairah, what is it that you do? I know you’re interning there at Beyond the Bars, what is it that you do?

Shairah Kibler: So for the summer program, basically, a lot of real cool, amazing, awesome teachers teach us how we can better teach people younger that us how to get into ways of expressing themselves through music and different types of things like that. But once you, I guess you could say graduate fro the program, we get to go out and branch through different rec centers, different after school programs si we can teach what we have learned from these teachers to apply to ourselves in the way we want to learn and teach kids how to make themselves known. We let them know what they can do without being like, hard on them, or like being strictly just one thing, like being able to really show themselves, who they are, to multiple people.

Solomon Jones: Wow that’s fantastic. So, Kim McCaffrey, what other programs do you guys have in the minute or two we have left?

Kim McCaffrey: We’re actually supporting almost 8,000 young people this summer across the city. So you have young folks who are in other arts programs, you have folks in marketing programs, entrepreneurship programs, in civic engagement programs, construction, basically if you name the job, we have young people doing it this summer. We will be continuing some of these programs into the school year, so definitely check us out at Philla.gov/C2L-PHL to learn more and potentially get yourself connected.

Solomon Jones: Okay, and is there a way for people to apply for what’s going on in the school year?

Kim McCaffrey: Yeah, so young people will be able to apply directly to the non-profits that are offering these programs. So definitely keep an eye on the website, and we will push out these opportunities as the programs get started. Most programs will start for the school year around October.

Solomon Jones: Cool, now is there a number people can call, or do they have to go to the website and do it electronically?

Kim McCaffrey: They will have to go to the website.

Solomon Jones: And the website again, is phila.gov/C2L-PHL. So Beyond the Bars, how do we learn more about it? Is there a phone number Matthew, and a website? Matthew Kerr: Absolutely, thank you so much. Yeah, our website is www.BeyondTheBarsMusic.org and the phone number is 267-225-7247. We have tons of programs, always plenty of openings for awesome

young people to be making music. And actually, tomorrow night, we have our student teacher graduation show at Underground Arts. It’s totally free, so you can see a lot of awesome young people perform, play some amazing music, as well as get celebrated for the awesome leaders that they are.

Solomon Jones: Alright, well I want to thank you so much for that. Kim McCaffrey, I want to thank you, Matthew, as well as Shairah Kibler form Beyond the Bars. Kim McCaffrey from JEVS. Thank you all for joining us this morning on WURD and for sharing the great work that you do.

From Haiti to Philadelphia: A JEVS Center for New Americans Story

Posted on by Rossella Alla

By Miguenson N. 

In Haiti, James M. worked as a police officer. This job involved many challenges and risks that put civilians and officers in dangerous situations.

In search of a stable and secure life, James M. and his wife left Haiti. They lived in Chile for a while, where their son was born. Then they traveled to Mexico and eventually arrived in the United States. James M. and his family faced daily challenges, including how to provide for his family’s basic needs.

The Philadelphia County Assistance Office referred James to JEVS Human Services in February 2024. He applied for training and employment services. I enrolled James M. in English as a Second Language (ESL) classes and started looking for a job for him. He applied to Amazon where he completed the drug test and background check and was offered a job.

Today, James M. is happy and is grateful for the support and help from JEVS Center for New Americans (CNA).

Want to Stay Connected with JEVS? Sign Up for Our Updates.

Sign Me Up!
Skip to content