Kelly Somberg will be recognized by Jewish Family Services (JFS) for her passion about its mission, dedication and commitment to making a difference, making time for others and more at the organization’s Bright Night event. Somberg will receive JFS’ Alfred Benjamin Friend of the Family Award at the event on Thursday, Sept. 26.
The community is invited to celebrate Somberg and JFS’ work at The Madrid (3810 Main St., Kansas City, MO 64111) from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. “Bright Night” tickets are available at jfskc.org/brightnight.
The Alfred Benjamin Friend of the Family Award is presented to an individual who has provided exemplary service to JFS. The award, named for JFS co-founder and second board president Alfred Benjamin, recognizes people whose accomplishments exemplify his compassion, interest in humanity and commitment to improving the quality of life for others.
Somberg has been focused on being a community volunteer, spending time at the JFS Food Pantry and working with the Kesher KC and JET Express programs.
Somberg has demonstrated leadership within both the Kansas City community and JFS. Her service spans a decade on JFS' Board of Directors, where she served as president and leveraged her time, financial support and influence to advance JFS initiatives. Somberg played a pivotal role in steering JFS’ COVID-19 response, enabling rapid expansion to address community needs.
Professionally, Somberg has a master's degree in social work from the University of Kansas and has spent her career in the nonprofit social service sector. Her work has included child welfare-case management, program management and volunteer coordination.
“I am proud of the work that JFS does to improve the lives of people in our Jewish community and greater community in the areas of mental health, older adult services, food insecurity and social work case management,” Somberg said. “I have always been impressed with the innovative approach of JFS, the commitment to providing client-centered services and their willingness to create partnerships with other agencies.”
Presented by the Himmelstein family, “Bright Night” will be a festive cocktail party at The Madrid including lounge-style music by The Crossroads Sound. The evening will feature a raffle including suite game tickets to a Kansas City Chiefs game and VIP dining experience at an award-winning restaurant. There will also be a Fund-A-Need opportunity to directly support the JFS programs and services. Those who wish to make a donation to honor Somberg may visit jfskc.org/honoringkellysomberg.
Bright Night event chairs are Danielle and Jeremy Antes, and Lena Price and Tom Cohen. Host committee chairs are Michelle Goldsmith and Stann Tate.
