Greenville Jewish Federation launches Family Services program

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GREENVILLE, S.C. — The Greenville Jewish Federation has launched a pioneering initiative aimed at providing essential social support services to adults and families of all faiths across the Upstate region.
Jewish Family Services of the Upstate addresses critical needs within the community with a focus on the aging population and other underserved groups, said Courtney Tessler, CEO of Greenville Jewish Federation. This is the first existence of a formal Jewish Family Services program in the Upstate.

The program’s inception is made possible through the generous support of two esteemed foundations, the Sephardic Foundation on Aging and the Carolina Foundation for Jewish Seniors, whose grants have enabled the establishment and initial operation of the Jewish Family Services of the Upstate program.

Leading the charge is our inaugural hire, Miki Karni, a seasoned social worker with 26 years of experience in Israel. Karni brings a wealth of expertise and passion to her role. Now licensed in South Carolina, Karni is eager to embark on the journey of building and strengthening our Jewish Family Services agency.

“We’ve known there has been a need for JFS for some time, but until recently, bringing it to life was just a dream,” Tessler said. “With the support of the Sephardic Foundation on Aging and the Carolina Foundation for Jewish Seniors, we are proud to introduce Jewish Family Services of the Upstate, fulfilling a vital role in our community.”

Reflecting on her transition to the United States, Karni shared, “Even though I’m pretty new in America, I believe that everything I have done and learned throughout my career will be useful and helpful here. I specialized in many different areas, including chronic and severe illness, domestic violence, children, and adults with special needs, and more.”

About Jewish Family Services of the Upstate:
Jewish Family Services of the Upstate is a program of the Greenville Jewish Federation, offering a wide range of social support services to adults and families of all faiths in the Upstate region. With a focus on the aging population and other underserved groups, Jewish Family Services is dedicated to promoting well-being, resilience, and dignity for all.

About the Greenville Jewish Federation:
The Greenville Jewish Federation is a dynamic organization dedicated to serving and strengthening the Jewish community in Greenville and neighboring counties. With a rich philanthropy and community-building history, the Federation works tirelessly to support educational programs, social services, cultural events, and advocacy efforts that promote Jewish values, heritage, and unity. To learn more about the Greenville Jewish Federation’s initiatives and upcoming programs, visit www.jewishgreenville.org.