Community Programs & Education 

JFS offers support groups and workshops focused on the specific needs of our community, such as workshops for parents and support groups for caregivers. 

Domestic Violence Awareness Initiative

Domestic Violence is a pattern of behaviors used by one partner to maintain power and control over another partner in an intimate relationship.  This can occur in many different forms, including: verbal, emotional, physical, sexual, technological and financial, even mockery of one’s beliefs. And the children in the household? They feel it too.  

Every year, JFS hosts a Domestic Violence Awareness Day.  Last year our Lighting the Way to Peace attracted a crowd of all ages, who came together to END DOMESTIC VIOLENCE and write their message of peace on our Mural of Peace.

There are thousands of reported incidents of Domestic Violence in Charlotte throughout the year. Each domestic abuse survivor has a different story and a different path forward as they break free of abuse.

In addition to community awareness campaigns, JFS works directly with many domestic abuse survivors to address their immediate physical, financial and emotional needs. If you are in a troubled relationship and need help, call JFS @ 704.364.6594.

R U OK? Shalom Park

Discussions about mental health are becoming more and more common, as people open up about their struggles with this often times taboo subject. But there are still so many people who feel embarrassed or that they will be judged so they don’t confide in others about their problems. The R U OK?  Shalom Park Campaign is about highlighting the hidden struggles of those people who are going through their own battles, not just on one day, but every day of the year. The aim of a program like this is to remind us all to be our brothers keeper and to ask “Are you ok?”

Spearheaded by Jewish Family Services, the R U OK? Shalom Park Campaign is a collaboration offered to the community by the Jewish organizations in Charlotte. It is designed to educate us all on how to go about creating safe conversations. Got a funny feeling that someone you know or care about isn’t behaving as they normally would? Perhaps they seem out of sorts, more agitated or withdrawn or just not themselves. The R U OK? Shalom Park Campaign will arm you with the tools you need to check in with that person.  If they say they are not ok, you’ll be able to show them they are supported and guide them to accessing resources and better manage their load.  If they are ok, then that person will know that you are someone who cares enough about them to ask. 

Stay tuned for pop up displays and discussions, workshops and other ways for you to reach out and ask R U OK? For more information contact Howard or Rachel at JFS at 704.364.6594.

As Jews, we gather to give thanks, celebrate and stay connected to the ancient and modern traditions that shape Jewish life and identity.  We remember, we re-enact, and we retain the light for generations to come.

As a community its important to come together to honor the moments, experiences, and values we hold dear. Throughout the year, JFS hosts celebrations that commemorate festive occasions and holidays. 

Jewish Family Services of Charlotte is proud to work in partnership with JELF to help local Jewish students reach their academic goals. Higher education costs are rising and JELF is meeting the need through providing 0% interest loans to Jewish students.

All qualifying applicants must be:

• A permanent resident of FL, GA, SC, NC, and VA (excluding metro DC) (they can, however, attend any U.S. accredited school)
• Enrolled full-time in a program leading to a degree or certificate
• In good academic standing
• A U.S. citizen, or have lawful immigration status
• Able to provide a designated co-signer that lives in the U.S.
• Planning to accept federal subsidized and unsubsidized loans (FAFSA application required)

JELF loans are intentionally designed to help cover costs associated with the educational and living expenses that other financial aid often does not cover, such as travel, rent, food, and books. JELF’s 0% interest loans help save borrowers thousands of dollars in high interest-bearing debt each year.

The JELF application is open each year from January-April for students seeking assistance for the next full academic year and again in August-September for students that need assistance for spring and/or summer semesters.

To apply, or for more information please visit www.jelf.org.

Jewish Experience Fund 

The Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte’s Jewish Experience Fund promotes Jewish identity building among our Jewish youth through Jewish camping, community building, leadership development and informal educational opportunities. Click here to download the application for the Jewish Experience Fund.

Hebrew Cemetery

On behalf of the Hebrew Cemetery Association, the JFS case manager meets with individuals and families to assess financial need for those unable to pay full price to bury a loved one. Please contact the Hebrew Cemetery Association for additional information at 704-576-1859.