Voices of JFS: Sheryl Goodman

Sheryl Goodman’s journey with Jewish Family Service (JFS) began when she was a baby. “I was born at Florence Crittenton, a home for unwed mothers, and adopted through JFS in 1962 when I was 10 days old,” Sheryl explains. As she grew up, Sheryl learned about JFS through her parents’ involvement. Her dad, Dr. Jim Moses, gave free dental work to Russian immigrants, and her mom, Debra Herz, served on the JFS Board and was a past event honoree.

Then, about 15 years ago, Sheryl was president of CHAI – the Jewish community resource for domestic violence. “CHAI was struggling, so I met with Yana Vishnitsky (former JFS president & CEO) and Joyce Foster (Board chair at the time) to see about JFS taking it on as a program,” says Sheryl. “It made sense to have CHAI be a program of JFS since the agency is known for its mental health services and there was a private entrance into those offices. Yana agreed but told me I had to join the Board to oversee the program.”

Unfortunately, CHAI didn’t last too long as a sustainable program, but Sheryl stayed on the Board. She got involved with the disabilities programs, working closely with fellow Board member Jane E. Rosenbaum. The two co-chaired several Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance, and Inclusion Month events. In her work with families with disabilities, Sheryl shared that her favorite part was helping them navigate systems and find resources to improve their lives.

Sheryl Goodman with her husband, Jon

She remained on the Board for many years and served on virtually every committee. Following in her mother’s footsteps, she was an honoree at the JFS Real Hope fundraiser in 2014.

Another important touchstone was being able to open her adoption records. “I had a closed adoption, but while I was on the Board, the Colorado law changed, and I was able to open my record to learn some family medical history, which was important to me,” Sheryl says.  

When asked why she supports JFS when there are so many organizations to help, Sheryl replies, “I love JFS because it has so many social services in one organization, and it serves the whole community. It’s true Tikkun Olam (the obligation to make the world a better place). Also, it’s a well-oiled machine with fantastic leadership and staff. I feel a sense of family and value the relationships I’ve built over the years.”

She adds, “Due to what’s happening in our world, JFS is needed now more than ever. The economy, Covid, and mental health challenges are affecting everyone. We could all use help from JFS!”

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