- Volunteers
Volunteers from across the Bay Area and beyond gathered at JFCS’ San Francisco offices for a Volunteer Day of Learning focused on Jewish values, belonging, and the power of human connection. Led by Director of Community Outreach, Tamar Zaken, and guest speaker Dr. Marc Dollinger, professor of Jewish studies at San Francisco State University, the event invited volunteers to reflect on how they can take action to deepen relationships and strengthen community.
Representing programs across the agency, including Food Banks, the JFCS Holocaust Center, and services for seniors and neurodivergent young adults, volunteers of all ages came together not only to learn but also to connect through a shared commitment to caring for others.
Tamar opened the session with a reflection on Jewish values and the rituals that bring meaning to everyday life. Volunteers broke into groups and explored how intentional moments can foster trust and belonging both within Jewish tradition and in their work with clients. “The feeling of belonging is so deeply important and grounding to people,” one volunteer reflected. “Having a moment of mindfulness to center the client’s needs is something I’m grateful to take away with me today.”
Later, Dr. Dollinger shared personal insights on finding belonging within Jewish and professional communities. He spoke about the importance of building relationships across differences and the role volunteers play in helping others feel seen and included. Attendees then worked again in small groups through real-life client scenarios, practicing ways to create meaningful interactions rooted in empathy and human connection. The conversations encouraged participants to think not only about the services they provide, but also about how small moments of care can help someone feel less isolated and more connected to community.
In Jewish tradition, rituals transform ordinary moments into opportunities for connection. Whether gathering for Shabbat, offering blessings of gratitude, or showing up for one another in difficult times, these shared practices remind us that we are part of something larger than ourselves. At JFCS, volunteers carry those traditions forward through acts of service that help clients feel supported and strengthen community across generations and backgrounds.
As one volunteer shared afterward, “There are many in our community who feel as I do; we’re not alone. I belong here at JFCS.”
| JFCS volunteers help strengthen individuals and families throughout the Bay Area by extending a human touch and meaningful connections to the greater community. Guided by Jewish values, JFCS serves thousands of people each year, and our volunteers are a critical component in that care. There are many ways to use your talents and time as a volunteer with JFCS. Apply to be a volunteer today! | ||