Your Support, Our Impact:

See What We Accomplished Together in the 2024 Annual Report

This past year was one of growth, resilience, and impact, all made possible by supporters like you. Our 2024 Annual Report highlights the programs, partnerships, and personal stories that brought our mission to life.

Inside, you’ll find:

• A look at the lives we’ve touched
• Key accomplishments from our programs and services
• Financial insights and community partnerships
• Messages from our leadership

We invite you to explore the full report and see how, together, we are strengthening lives and changing futures.

Rales JFS is proud to announce that our esteemed Board Chair, Rick Paul, has received the Lay Leadership Award of Excellence from Network of Jewish Human Services Agencies. This prestigious award recognizes Rick Paul’s exceptional commitment, leadership, and dedication to Rales JFS and the broader community.

Rick Paul has served as Board Chair for the past 2 years, consistently demonstrating unwavering support. His leadership is characterized by his genuine appreciation for the staff, collaborative efforts, and commitment to ensure that Rales JFS can continue to help anyone in South Palm Beach County, regardless of age or background. Rick’s ability to inspire and uplift those around him has been instrumental in ensuring the continued growth and success of Rales JFS.

The Lay Leadership Award of Excellence is presented annually by NJHSA to individuals who have shown outstanding leadership and dedication in their volunteer roles within Jewish human service agencies. Rick's receipt of this award is a testament to his remarkable contributions and the positive influence he has had on Rales JFS and the community we serve.

Please join us in congratulating Rick Paul on this incredible achievement. We are grateful for his continued dedication and look forward to his ongoing

Marcia Langley is the Vice Chair of Legal on the Board of Directors of Ruth & Norman Rales Jewish Family Services. An accomplished real estate attorney with Greenberg Traurig, Marcia’s connection to Rales JFS is rooted in family values and a shared vision of service. Her parents, Shirley & Barton Weisman, had a vision to create a center where local seniors can lead long, fulfilling lives. This vision became reality with the opening of the Shirley & Barton Weisman Center, a cornerstone of the agency’s senior services. With over nearly two decades of involvement, Marcia has served as an active board member since 2013 as well as co-chaired and hosted numerous signature events that help sustain the organization’s mission. As the recipient of the 2024 Corporate Leadership Award, this accolade not only honored her individual contributions but also the collaborative spirit of her colleagues at Greenberg Traurig.

Before joining her current firm, Marcia served as Vice President and General Counsel at Atlantic Gulf Communities Corporation and General Counsel and Secretary to the Board of Directors at Gulfstream Housing Corporation. Her professional expertise is complemented by her active involvement in the community, serving on the Board of Trustees for Jewish Adoption and Family Care Options (JAFCO). She is also a member of the American Corporate Counsel Association and the Wharton Club of South Florida.

This Mental Health Awareness Month, Make Your Well-Being a Priority

You wouldn’t ignore a broken bone, don’t ignore your mental well-being. Therapy is health care.

This Mental Health Awareness Month, take a moment to check in with yourself and those around you. Whether you're facing anxiety, grief, life transitions, or just need someone to talk to, Rales JFS Behavioral Health Services is here to help, with compassionate, confidential and affordable counseling for all ages.

Here are 5 ways Rales JFS Behavioral Health Services can support you or someone you love:

1. Support Through Life’s Challenges

From anxiety and depression to trauma, grief, or major life transitions, our licensed counselors help you navigate difficult emotions with care and expertise.

2. Strengthen Your Relationships

We offer couples and family counseling to improve communication, resolve conflict, and support blended families, parenting, or separation-related concerns.

3. Age-Appropriate Therapy for All Ages

Whether you’re seeking help for a child, teen, adult, or senior, our team offers compassionate, age-appropriate support tailored to your stage of life.

4. Safe Space for Personal Growth

Counseling isn’t just for times of crisis. It’s also for self-discovery, building resilience, and creating a healthier, more fulfilling life.

5. Inclusive & Comprehensive Care

We address a wide range of concerns, from caregiving stress and job issues to LGBTQ+ support and health-related challenges in a confidential, judgment-free setting.

You don’t have to face challenges alone. Our licensed therapists are here to help, every step of the way.

Need support? Call our Behavioral Health Services at (561) 852-3333 or visit ralesjfs.org/counseling.

Move & Unwind: A Night of Wellness, Connection, and Community

On May 8, 2025, the Weisman Delray Community Center transformed into a sanctuary of serenity and community connection during our Move & Unwind yoga event. Led by the talented Robyn Cifuentes, participants engaged in a rejuvenating yoga session, followed by a calming sound bowl meditation guided by Shari Kline. The evening also featured local wellness vendors and wholesome refreshments, creating a holistic experience that nourished both body and mind.

This event was more than just an opportunity to stretch and relax; it was a celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month and a fundraiser supporting the vital programs and services offered by Rales JFS. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who joined us. A special thank you to our wonderful co-chairs, Robyn Cifuentes, Melissa Goldsmith, and Debra Marcus.

If you missed this event but are interested in supporting Rales JFS or participating in future events, please visit ralesjfs.org for more information.

Grandmother of Hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin Shares His Story and Advocates for Hostages Still Held

Leah Polin, the grandmother of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, who was taken hostage on October 7, 2023 at the Nova Music Festival and then later executed, shared the story of this remarkable young man, who called her Savta (Hebrew for grandma). Mrs. Polin is a frequent lecturer on subjects such as, Jewish history, women, and current events in both Palm Beach County and Chicago area.  

Leah Polin began her presentation with background information about Hersh's parents and their move to Israel in 2008. She fondly recalled questioning his short, monosyllabic name, to which his parents responded, 'Someday, he will make a name for himself.' Tragically, they could never have imagined that his legacy would be defined by his capture and murder. However, in his short 23 years, he led his life in pursuit of knowledge, treating all he met with respect and genuine kindness, and had an affinity for travel. Hersh was known for being peace loving and could never imagine taking the life of even an enemy. Leah Polin shared that after his capture, “He became a part of every Jewish family. We all had tikvah (Hebrew for hope) that he would be returned to us alive.” However, that was not the outcome everyone had prayed for. His remains, along with five others who were murdered, were returned the end of August 2024. Hersh’s funeral was attended by thousands and even more stood in the streets on a hot day in Israel to pay their respects.  

Along with her son John Polin and his wife, Rachel Goldberg-Polin, Leah speaks to whomever will listen, telling the story of her beloved grandson, Hersh. They all continue to tirelessly fight and advocate to bring the remaining hostages home. This loving, close-knit family has ensured that their grief fuels their activism and a hope for bringing the remaining hostages home.  

Weisman Center Valiant Players Perform Love Themed Spring Show

Valiant Players Love Show Recap

The Weisman Center’s very own Valiant Players brought the house down with their heartfelt performance of LOVE — a nostalgic musical journey that had every guest smiling, swaying, and singing along. From “Fly Me to the Moon” to “Let Me Call You Sweetheart,” every note was filled with joy.

Led by the incredible Peter Vincent and the expert musical guidance of pianist Wally Childs, the group’s musical offerings never fail to strike a happy chord with concertgoers. Peter Vincent performed at the Center in the past and was asked to take on the Valiant Players, whose director, Val Chevron, had sadly passed away. He continues to lead with the same passion and committment that Mr. Chevron brought to the group.

These singers and performers not only enjoy the musical aspect but also truly benefit from the camaraderie within the group. One member shared, “Being a part of the Valiant Players helps alleviate my stress and exercises my memory, with each song we sing. Attending the rehearsals is the highlight of my week.”

Michele Patrone, Director of the Weisman Delray Community Center, is enamored with the Valiant Players. “They light up our Center with every note they sing. Their performances are a beautiful reminder that music, like love, only grows sweeter with time.”

For more information, please contact the Weisman Center at (561) 558-2100.

A Musical Afternoon to Remember: Doris and Elliot Weiss Light Up the

Weisman Stage 

What an unforgettable afternoon at the Weisman Delray Community Center as Doris and Elliot Weiss brought the house down during the second concert in our Yiddish Music & Jewish Song Series! From the American Songbook to gems of the Yiddish Theatre, their performance was a beautiful blend of nostalgia, elegance, and pure musical joy.

This wonderful concert series is generously sponsored by Oasis Senior Advisors, Conviva Senior Primary Care and the Law Office of Michelle R. Hollister, P.A. Thank you to everyone who joined us. We can’t wait to welcome you back for the next concert in the series!

For more about Weisman Center events, contact (561) 558-2100.

Rales JFS Present and Learn at NJHSA’s PowerNET 2025 Conference in Denver

At this year's NJHSA Conference, held in Denver, Colorado, several of our staff members attended and presented. PowerNET 2025: Thriving in a Changing World is The Network’s signature event, a multi-day conference where 600-800 human service professionals, agency leaders, and partner organizations exchange ideas, share successes, and explore challenges. With keynote sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities, the event aims to empower participants with strategies to strengthen their work and communities. Kayala Katz, Program Director of Domestic Abuse Education & Action, gave a presentation on Supporting Jewish Survivors of Domestic Violence.

The sessions were incredibly insightful, providing our staff with new strategies and ideas to better serve our community. Our team returned energized and inspired, ready to implement what they've learned to make an even greater impact in South Palm Beach County. Thank you, NJHSA, for hosting such a valuable event!

Help Us Stamp Out Hunger:

Drop Off or Donate Today

Saturday, May 10th was National Stamp Out Hunger Day, and there's still time for you to make a difference right here in our community!

Drop off non-perishable food items at any of our Rales JFS locations and help us support individuals and families facing food insecurity. Every can, box, and bag counts!

To order from our Amazon wish list, visit https://a.co/7DDIjSR.

Let’s come together to stamp out hunger, one donation at a time.

Summer Internships at Rales JFS:

Gain Experience, Make an Impact

Rales JFS is seeking passionate and dedicated college interns to join our team this summer. This is a great opportunity for individuals interested in making a meaningful impact in the community while gaining hands-on experience. Intern roles are available in Community Outreach, Weisman Community Center, Jacobson Family Food Pantry, Financial Assistance, Disability Inclusion Services and more. Positions are in person with flexible start dates and hours. Ideal candidates are proactive, organized, and enthusiastic. Interns will benefit from professional development opportunities, recommendation letters, and the chance to contribute to real change.

To become a Rales JFS intern, click here.

Thank You, First Horizon Foundation, for Helping Us Feed Our Community

We’re deeply grateful to the First Horizon Foundation for their generous grant in support of the Jacobson Family Food Pantry. Your commitment helps us continue fighting food insecurity and providing essential resources to those in need throughout our community. Thank you for standing with us!

If you or your organization would like to donate to Rales JFS, visit ralesjfs.org/donate.

Life Vac Donated to Cooperman Center

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Florida Medical Association Alliance for their generous donation of a LifeVac machine to the Toby and Leon Cooperman Therapy & Family Resource Center at Rales JFS. This life-saving device enhances our ability to respond swiftly to choking emergencies, ensuring the safety of the children and families we serve.

If you or your organization would like to learn more about supporting Rales JFS, please visit ralesjfs.org.

Honored to Receive the Golden Ball from Men Giving Back

We’re honored to receive the Golden Ball from Men Giving Back South Palm Beach County!

Thank you for the opportunity to be considered for a 2025 grant. We’re grateful for your backing to further our mission in the community and provide support anyone in South Palm Beach County who needs help, regardless of age or background.

Need Support? Rales JFS Is Always Here For You!

Join LGBTQ+ Silver Pride Groups

Check Out The Cooperman Center Therapeutic

Programs Calendar

Join Disability and Inclusion Support Groups

Sibshops: Brothers & Sisters of Individuals with Varying Needs and Abilities

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 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.