Did you know that Jewish Family Services of Greater Kansas City is part of a robust network of Jewish social service providers across the United States and Canada?
The Network of Jewish Human Service Agencies (NJHSA) convened in Denver, Colorado, from April 27 to 30 for the annual PowerNet conference, with a 2025 theme of “Thriving in a Changing World.” I had the pleasure of joining my colleagues Debbie Bass (chief development officer), Angela DeWilde (CEO), Maggie Haghirian (chief program officer) and Melanie Hayden (senior development director) at this year’s conference, gaining valuable insight from fellow social service professionals.
A highlight of the conference was a visit to JFS Colorado, where we had the chance to tour its food pantry and learn about its program supporting economically vulnerable Jewish families. We also attended workshops on timely topic areas including fundraising, school-based mental health initiatives, housing assistance, chaplaincy, management training and even artificial intelligence. Most sessions were presented by agencies and providers themselves, sharing their real experiences and lessons learned from program implementation.
Each one provided a place to ask questions, hear best practices and experience solidarity with those working in services like those provided at JFS Kansas City.
Haghirian, who’s been to the conference in the past, added, “How insightful to learn what other JFSs are doing to help repair the world. It’s energizing. It is also validating to be reminded how exceptional our own JFS KC staff and volunteer team are to changing lives.”
Along with learning what other member agencies have found to be successful practices, networking among professional colleagues was invaluable. CEO Angela DeWilde attended the one-day retreat for executive directors, connecting with a group of fellow JFS CEOs who can provide guidance and insight. Staff also connected with the Seed the Dream foundation and KAVOD SHEF around the crucial funds to which we connect Holocaust survivors each year.
In addition to valuable workshops, the conference hosted several keynote speakers. We heard from the Tony Award winning Alliance Theatre in Atlanta, Georgia, about the power of using theater to tackle complex issues. Eboo Patel, founder of Interfaith America, spoke about the importance of building relationships outside the Jewish community while remaining rooted in the values that make it so unique. Finally, Rabbi Rori Picker Neiss and a panel of Jewish professionals engaged in a meaningful discussion around addressing antisemitism and interfaith engagement.
As we return to our daily work here in Kansas City, I reflect on the many reasons we are lucky to belong to a network that provides solidarity and support in a continually changing social and economic landscape. Personally, as someone who is not Jewish, opportunities like these serve as a reminder of what a privilege it is to work in a tradition so firmly rooted in strong values that chooses to see the best in humanity. In a rapidly changing world of continued division, challenges and resource scarcity, gathering with fellow human service professionals bolsters my hope to continue this work in partnership with such a supportive community.