From the Director
The structural changes to the JFS Committee and the establishment of several sub-committees and categories is beginning to show solid results. In October we launched the first of several Family and Children Programs at Federation. Program Coordinator Corin Koren led off with a "Baby and Me Yoga" class. In November, we began our Friday mornings' "Story Time" at the JCC – with a once monthly (second Friday of the month) "Shabbat Story Time". On December 18th we held our first, in a long time, Family Chanukah celebration. It was a great party! Join us February 12th for the official opening of our Children's Library and help us out by purchasing and donating children's books, some comfortable 'kid friendly' chairs, and other needed items for this charming space. Most importantly, come check it out and see what we're up to!

Our Jewish Family Service Clinical Sub-committee has also been hard at work, reviewing our program, seeing where our strengths lie, and making plans for the future. Our clinicians – Vickie Orloff Tilton, LCSW, Beth Ruben, LCSW, Michael Vogel, Clinical Trainee Pacifica Graduate Institute, and myself – are available to provide counseling, "Information and Referral" services, and consultation regarding eldercare. We are planning several workshops and programs in the coming months. Please check our website for information as it becomes available.

Come down to the Federation. Check out our programs. Enjoy quiet time in our libraries. Enjoy lunch and a program at the Schmooze Room. Your financial support is much appreciated, but don't forget that you can support us too by volunteering. Start your application and speak with our Coordinator of Volunteers Harriet Marx. There are many ways to be involved and supportive to Jewish Family Service, and the Jewish Federation of Greater Santa Barbara!

Wishing you a happy new year, and health and wellness in 2012!

Sincerely,
Barbara W. Kuhn, LCSW
Director, Jewish Family Service of Greater Santa Barbara
524 Chapala St., Santa Barbara, CA  93101
805-957-1116 x115
bkuhn@sbjf.org