Jewish Family Services’ (JFS) Emerging Leaders program, composed of young professionals who come together to support the mission and work of JFS, will hold a celebration for its first year.
The celebration will be on Thursday, Feb. 1, from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Sosland Community Room at JFS’ Brookside Office (425 E. 63rd St., Kansas City, MO 64110). The evening will include networking opportunities, a tour of the food pantry, refreshments and a showcase of volunteer opportunities.
Any young professional is invited to attend this celebration. Reservations are required by Jan. 30 at http://tinyurl.com/52vbttnz. Questions should be directed to Melanie Hayden, Emerging Leaders staff liaison, at or (913) 730-1745.
Emerging Leaders began as an initiative of JFS’ Board Engagement Committee, which wanted to connect with the talents and skills of young professionals in the community. The concept was also designed to help build the next generation of leadership not only for JFS but for other community organizations. This new affinity group supports JFS’ mission through social events in support of a cause, volunteering and leadership opportunities. Group members can serve on JFS committees and engage with board members and staff. JFS board member Rabbi Rachel Rothstein serves as the Emerging Leaders liaison.
During its first year, Emerging Leaders engaged in many JFS activities with more than 100 young professionals participating. Members spent a day learning about and volunteering with JFS partner Harvesters Community Food Network; served as volunteers at JFS’ summer WipeOut party; and helped deliver meals to older adults during the High Holidays. The group also hosted two social events including a summer event at Rieger’s Electric Park Garden.
The group’s biggest undertaking in 2023 was working on the JFS Hanukkah Project that distributed gifts to more than 300 Jewish families. Emerging Leaders gathered wishlists from clients, matched clients with adopters and collected donated gifts. In addition, 10 Emerging Leaders helped distribute gifts to clients.
"We’re so proud of what this group has accomplished in just one year," said Andi Kahclamat, who co-chaired the Emerging Leaders Hanukkah effort. “Not only did we reach 100 young adults, but our projects also touched the lives of hundreds of JFS clients. With networking and leadership development opportunities, plus real community service that matters, Emerging Leaders is an amazing program for young professionals.”
