April News

Great Golf For a Great Cause Tournament Exceeds Expectations

Rales JFS is proud to highlight the success of the annual “Great Golf for a Great Cause” Tournament, which took place on Monday, March 31, 2025 at St. Andrews Golf & Country Club. Record attendance brought over 180 enthusiastic golfers to the greens in support of the vital programs and services offered at Rales JFS.

Larry Blair, Arnold Friedman, Bernard Friedman, and Amy Ross have served as co-chairs of this event for many years, contributing to the consistent achievement the golf tournament provides for Rales JFS. Their ongoing dedication and commitment to the agency is the driving force behind the golf tournament. Amy Ross shared, “Rales JFS speaks to our hearts. They help everyone in the community and I love being a part of this tournament.” The golfers began their day with a luncheon before hitting the green. After golfing, they enjoyed a cocktail hour followed by dinner and awards. Additionally, attendees enjoyed a variety of great raffle prizes and a silent auction featuring a New York trip and a trip to Torrey Pines. Rales JFS President & CEO Danielle Hartman added, “Each year our “Great Golf for a Great Cause” tournament brings together the community to raise funds for the programs and services of Rales JFS. This year we had a record turnout with over 180 players, several of them first time players. We are grateful to the community for supporting our work.”

The funds raised during the tournament will directly benefit Rales JFS behavioral health services, family and children’s services, food and financial assistance, and senior services, furthering the mission to provide support for anyone in South Palm Beach County, regardless of age or background.

Support the Jacobson Family Food Pantry Amid

Urgent Shortage This Passover

A Message From Rales JFS President & CEO

Dear Rales JFS Family,

As we approach the joyous holiday of Passover, we are reminded of the deep significance it holds in our hearts and homes. Passover is a time of reflection, celebration, and gratitude for the freedom that was granted to our ancestors.

It is also an opportunity for us to embody the values that define us as a community, and one such value is feeding the hungry. The Jacobson Family Food Pantry, part of Rales JFS, is experiencing an urgent need for food donations due to a significant and unanticipated reduction in food provided through the emergency food assistance program (TEFAP). This reduction will affect the availability of food for our food pantry clients – as a result we are reaching out to you with a heartfelt request for help. Your financial donation will help fill the gap from these cuts in deliveries.

As a community we cannot allow anyone to go hungry who is already receiving food through the Jacobson Family Food Pantry. Please join us at this critical time by dropping off food donations to one of our locations, using our the Amazon wish list link to send food, or by donating to ralesjfs.org/donations.

Warmly,



Danielle N. Hartman, MNM

President & CEO

Roger Leavy has been a dedicated member of the South Florida Jewish community since relocating from New York in 1989. Throughout his time in Florida, Roger has actively supported numerous Jewish organizations, assuming leadership roles and making a significant impact.

From 1994 to 1998, Roger served on the Board of Directors of Donna Klein Jewish Academy, where he held the position of Treasurer from 1996 to 1998. Together with his wife, April, he co-chaired the school’s Annual Ball in 1997, underscoring his commitment to education. His leadership also extended to the Adolph and Rose Levis Jewish Community Center, where he served as Assistant Treasurer and Vice President.

Roger’s leadership continued at the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County, where he served as President of The Facilities Corporation and chaired the Safety and Security Committee. For over two decades, Roger has been deeply involved with his synagogue, B’nai Torah Congregation, holding several key positions, including President from 2008 to 2010. Additionally, he has chaired committees such as Concert, House, Security, and Executive Director Search.

Currently, Roger serves as the Treasurer of Ruth & Norman Rales Jewish Family Services. He previously held the role of Vice-Chair of Food Services, overseeing programs such as The Jacobson Family Food Pantry and Meals on Wheels. Roger also chaired the Personnel Committee and co-chaired the 2018 Annual Gala alongside April.

Professionally, Roger is the President and owner of Tassel Depot (Hofmann & Leavy, Inc.), a family-run business established in 1864. Under his leadership, the company has become the world’s leading manufacturer of graduation tassels, honor cords, and related products, supplying a significant portion of tassels used in graduations across the United States.

Roger resides in Boca Raton with his wife, April, and their three dogs: Cooper, Cassie, and Charlie. Outside of his professional and philanthropic commitments, Roger enjoys golf, cooking, fine dining, exercise, surgical joint replacements, and spending quality time with family and friends. He is a proud husband, father, and grandfather to 2 identical twin boys.

April is Volunteer Appreciation Month, and we want to take a moment to recognize the incredible volunteers who make a lasting impact at Rales JFS! Your dedication, time, and passion are the heart of everything we do. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to our mission and the community.

Interested in making a difference? Join us as a volunteer and help us continue to bring positive change. Visit ralesjfs.org/philanthropy-volunteerism/ to learn more.

Small Hands, Big Impact:

Mitzvah Day at Temple Beth El ELC Supports Jacobson Family Food Pantry Clients



We are grateful to be part of Mitzvah Day at Temple Beth El Early Learning Center! Families and little ones came together to learn about giving back and the power of doing good. For Rales JFS, that meant packing hygiene bags for our pantry clients — small hands making a big impact. Thank you for helping us care for our community!

For more ways to give back, contact Rales JFS at (561) 852-3333 or visit ralesjfs.org.

For Spring Break, Teens and Families Pack 550 Passover Bags at the

Jacobson Family Food Pantry!

Teens and families came together at the Jacobson Family Food Pantry today to pack 550 Passover delivery bags! A meaningful way to spend spring break—giving back to their community and ensuring everyone has a meal for the holiday.

If you or your group would like to volunteer or give back to the food pantry, contact Kim at Kime@ralesjfs.org.

A Small but Mighty Force for Good:

Royal Palm Women Lend a Hand at the Jacobson Family Food Pantry!

A special thank you to the wonderful group of women from Royal Palm in East Boca who visited the Jacobson Family Food Pantry! They took the time to learn about our mission and lend a helping hand by bagging groceries for those in need.

We’re grateful for their support and look forward to them sharing their new knowledge with their neighbors and joining us again in the future.

Congrats to Jessica Strikowski, Winner of Our Mitzvah Madness Challenge!

Congratulations goes to Jessica Strikowski for coming in first place on our Mitzvah Madness Bracket Challenge! We want to thank everyone that participated in the challenge and supporting Rales JFS. Rales JFS supports anyone in South Palm Beach County who needs help, regardless of age or background. Our comprehensive programs strengthen, protect, and empower, with care and compassion.

If you or someone you know is in need of support, please call (561) 852-3333.

Wearing Blue for a Cause:

Rales JFS & Cooperman Center Honor

Autism Awareness Day



This month, the Rales JFS team wore blue in honor of Autism Awareness Day!

Autism is a spectrum, and every individual experiences it uniquely. At Rales JFS & the Cooperman Center, we are dedicated to providing essential services, resources, and support for individuals with autism and their families.

If you or someone you love needs support, we're here to help. Learn more at www.ralesjfs.org.

Cooperman Center Supports Families at “Focus on Tomorrow”

Autism Conference During

Autism Awareness Month

The Cooperman Center was honored to table at the Palm Beach School for Autism’s “Focus on Tomorrow” conference during Autism Awareness Month. The event featured powerful keynote speakers, a moving parent panel sharing their experiences and support for one another, and vital resources for families. We were grateful for the opportunity to provide helpful tools and information to our community.

For more information on Cooperman Center services, call (561) 859-5099.

Over 200 Seniors and Holocaust Survivors Gather for Rales JFS Annual

Passover Model Seder

Over 200 seniors and Holocaust survivors came together on April 8 for our Annual Passover Model Seder at B’nai Torah Congregation. With a heartwarming performance from Pre-K students, support from FAU Hillel, and leadership from Rabbi Marci Bloch from Trustbridge, our community partner, it was a joyful celebration of tradition and community.

Rales JFS is proud to support Holocaust survivors year-round with personalized care, financial assistance, and more. Call (561) 852-3333 to learn how we can help.

To view photo gallery, visit https://link.shutterfly.com/l8GXy3vopSb

Supporting, Educating & Celebrating at Palm Beach Pride! 

We were thrilled to be part of Palm Beach Pride, celebrating love, unity, and community! It was an incredible opportunity to connect with attendees and share the vital LGBTQ+ support services we offer, including counseling and support groups.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by our table to learn more about how Rales JFS is here to support and uplift the LGBTQ+ community.

For more information, contact Rales JFS at (561) 852-3333.

Empowering Minds at Every Age: Dr. Susan W. Lehmann Shares Insights on

Mental Wellness and Aging



Recently, we had the honor of hosting Dr. Susan W. Lehmann, a leading expert in geriatric psychiatry from Johns Hopkins. She shared invaluable insights on mental wellness, aging, and emotional well-being, empowering attendees to lead fulfilling lives at any age. Thank you to everyone who joined us at Sinai Residences for this enlightening session!

Thank you, Dr. Lehmann, for your expertise and for empowering our community with knowledge on emotional well-being. Dr. Susan W. Lehmann is the Patricia B. and William T. Bright Professor of Mental Wellness and Clinical Director of Geriatric Psychiatry at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. A national leader in geriatric psychiatry education, she has received numerous awards, including the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry Educator of the Year. Her work focuses on late-life mood disorders, geriatric bipolar disorder, and substance use, and she has published extensively on psychiatric care for older adults.

To stay informed on more events, subscribe to our Newsletter at https://ralesjfs.org/emailsignup or call (561) 852-3333.

Move, Unwind, and Support a Great Cause!

Join us for Move & Unwind: A Yoga Event Supporting Mental Health & Vital Programs at Rales JFS.

Led by instructor Robyn Cifuentes, with a Sound Bowl Meditation by Shari Kline, this evening of wellness will nourish your mind, fuel your body, and uplift your spirit. Enjoy yoga, wholesome eats, and wellness vendors!

Register now and flow with us for a great cause!

Date Night at the Jacobson Family Food Pantry Inspires Community Support

Thank you to everyone who joined us for Date Night at the Jacobson Family Food Pantry last night! From learning about the impact of our pantry to enjoying wine, cheese, and great company, it was an evening filled with purpose and connection. A special thank you to our event chairs, Jill & Alan Swimmer, for making this night possible.

We were honored to have Anne and Norman Jacobson, the namesakes of the pantry, join us for this special evening. Their presence made the night even more meaningful.

Jill Swimmer shares, "I wanted to raise awareness for the Jacobson Food Pantry because so many people do not know it exists as well as what exactly Jewish Family Services offers. I wanted people to see you do not necessarily need to donate money, although that’s important, but sometimes just donating your time is enough and rewarding. There were several special moments for us last night, but having Anne and Norm there was a highlight! Seeing my friends enjoying sorting is another."

We are so grateful for the generous donations of non-perishable food items that will help us continue serving those in need. Your support makes a difference!

Missed the event but still want to help? Click the button below to contribute.

Need Support? Rales JFS Is Always Here For You!

Join LGBTQ+ Silver Pride Groups

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Programs Calendar

Join Disability and Inclusion Support Groups

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Connect With Us!

Ruth & Norman Rales Jewish Family Services (JFS) provides a comprehensive range of programs and services which support people of all ages and beliefs. With locations in Boca Raton and Delray Beach, JFS programs and services include food and financial assistance, senior services, behavioral health services, career and employment services and many volunteer opportunities. Funding is provided by private and corporate support, grants, special events and individuals whose generosity helps thousands in need each year. Learn more at ralesjfs.org or call 561-852-3333.

DONATIONS MADE ON THS WEBSITE ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE TO THE EXTENT ALLOWED BY LAW. A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR RUTH & NORMAN RALES JEWISH FAMILY SERVICES (#sc-13201) MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE WITHIN THE STATE, 1(800) HELP-FLA.  REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.  RALES JFS RECEIVES 100% OF EACH CONTRIBUTION.