Debbie Zoller MSW, LCSW – JFS Executive Director
This year, the first night of Hanukkah begins on December 25 which is also Christmas Day. Since the start of the 20th century, there have only been four previous times when the two holidays coincided, including 1910, 1921, 1959, and 2005. Christmas is a major Christian holiday and Hanukkah is a minor festival. However, they are often compared as stores compete for everyone’s business during the gifting season.
While it’s purely a coincidence that Christmas day and the first night of Hanukkah happen to occur on the same day, I’d like to believe that there could be a hidden message. Both holiday celebrations emphasize lights, renewal and peace. More than ever, the need for compassion and understanding is crucial in a climate that has been very divided. The holidays are a time to come together and give of ourselves to those who may be in need.
As the Executive Director of JFS, I witness small miracles when I see individuals improve their lives as a result of the work they do with the professional staff. This year, the agency launched initiatives including an empowerment group for adults with disabilities, a group for parents of adults with disabilities, and a grandparent’s group. Additionally, JFS staff facilitate two programs for older adults to decrease social isolation- Creative Connections and Let’s Play. JFS has counseling services which assist individuals through a strength- based model emphasizing development of positive coping skills.
I am leading a six-session healing experience series that is on Zoom and in person that began last month. The purpose of this opportunity is to provide a safe space for individuals to express themselves and experience inspirational music, readings and stories. All of these programs provide an opportunity to “lighten” the load as we navigate these challenging times.
The vision statement of JFS reads: “No one in our community should suffer hunger, isolation, abandonment, emotional or physical distress or lack of community support and caring”. The lights of Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and the Winter Solstice shine more brightly when we are talking to each other, listening and seeking out commonalities rather than differences.