News & Impact

In 1941 Eda Pell arrived in California from Germany with her sister, Henni Kuflik, and faced an uncertain future as a young immigrant. Both girls had miraculously received visas to the United States as “wartime orphans” after being smuggled out of Germany to France. When the sisters learned they were going to a place called San Francisco, Eda says, “Quite frankly, it sounded like Timbuktu and the end of the earth to us.” But they quickly learned to appreciate their new home. The sisters settled into life at Homewood Terrace, a new type of child-care campus, which mirrored a family… Read More

John Levin is a long-time JFCS partner and supporter. His mother, a polio survivor, showed him firsthand how persons with disabilities can overcome obstacles to reach their highest potential. John’s instrumental and inspiring leadership paved the way for the creation and growth of JFCS’ highly regarded Disabilities Services Program, which has served thousands of children and adults with disabilities and their families. John is the Chairman and Co-Founder of the law firm Folger Levin LLP. His incredible vision has created a lasting national impact. His far-reaching honors in public service include the National Public Service Award from Stanford Law… Read More

San Francisco native, entrepreneur, and family man, Steven Feinberg joined the JFCS Board in 2017. Having recently sold his thriving company of 25 years, SF Global Sourcing, he now runs Finstar Capital, LLC, a private equity advising and investing firm. Steven is no stranger to JFCS. Before taking on his new role as Board member, he and his wife, Jenna Feinberg, had been ardent members of the Fammy Gala Committee and spirited supporters for years. The dedicated father of three young adults, Steven says, “JFCS’ services are all about family from start to finish, and its programs help kids reach… Read More

Newly appointed Board member David Kiachko is known for his warmth and passion for elevating awareness about causes that impact the Jewish community. After nearly two decades on the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) he is looking forward to also contributing his vast expertise to the JFCS Board. Having spent his childhood overseas and then working in international trade in Korea, he settled in the Bay Area and in the field of finance, specializing in options trading. David is also a member of JFCS’ Marin Major Gifts Committee and Public Issues Committee and says, “There are only a few organizations… Read More

Over the past decade Alex Varum has paved the way for a new generation of young adults to support JFCS and step into leadership roles. He recently joined the JFCS Board of Directors and has been an influential force on the long-standing JFCS Emigre Committee. Originally from the Soviet Union, Alex immigrated to the U.S. with his family as a child. He completed his education in the Bay Area and holds a law degree. With his expertise in law and business, Alex has established himself as a successful Bay Area real estate professional and property manager. Alex, his wife, Natalie… Read More

For 30-plus years Carl Grunfeld, MD, Ph.D, has been a well-loved and deeply knowledgeable JFCS supporter. He and his family have strengthened the organization in significant ways that will continue to be felt for generations. Carl is treasured by JFCS clients and staff, and he humbly acknowledges, “I’ve pretty much done whatever JFCS felt I could contribute to doing.” Carl has been a member of the Board, the JFCS Palliative Care Taskforce, and the Loans and Grants Committee, as well as chairing the Ethical Care Committee. He has even taught Russian emigre teens how to bake desserts! As an internationally… Read More