In its 70th year, JVS Recommits Itself to Serving Individuals
As it celebrates its 70th anniversary, Jewish Vocational Service can point with pride at its evolution, growing from an organization helping a handful of Jewish immigrants to one that serves more than 3,500 people annually. But the numbers tell only part of the story. To JVS, what matters most is helping individuals meet their personal goals.
“We measure our success by the achievement and satisfaction of those we serve,” says JVS President and Chief Executive Officer Peter Bloch. Bloch emphasized that point on May 6, 2010, as JVS welcomed the community to its Blue Ash building to celebrate seven decades of service. The day also provided an opportunity to show off major renovations, designed to help JVS provide even better services.
More than 150 guests toured the building, heard speeches about JVS’ contributions to Greater Cincinnati and learned about using social media to build careers and businesses.
Shep Englander, chief executive officer of the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati, which provides funding to JVS, reminded the crowd that the mission of both organizations – helping people help themselves -- is central to the Jewish ethic. “Our missions are completely intertwined with each other,” he said.
Cheryl Phipps, superintendent of Hamilton County Developmental Disabilities Services, another major JVS funder, echoed that theme. “We share a belief that together we can do great things,” she said.
Bloch credited the Jewish Federation, HCDDS and other agencies for helping JVS make a bigger impact on people’s lives.
“During our seven decades of existence, one of the great strengths of JVS has been its many, many partnerships and collaborations with our sister organizations, with employers, with customers and with funders,” Bloch said. And Bloch said JVS will continue to work hard to sustain and enhance its services by anticipating and meeting the needs of the individuals and communities it serves.
The event gave JVS the opportunity, in Bloch’s words, to rededicate a “beautifully renovated building that is much more functional and accommodating.” But more importantly, he added, the event gave JVS the occasion to “rededicate ourselves to Empowering Individuals and Enriching Lives.”
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