Meet our JFS Board Chair
“JFS isn't just another nonprofit; it's a lifeline for our community.”
Carl Rossow has spent his career developing companies that provide strategic counsel to political leaders, advocacy organizations, nonprofit agencies, and corporations and directing them on how to connect, persuade, and engage their audiences. He has served on numerous philanthropic boards, and throughout his nonprofit and board service, Carl has focused on organizations that strengthen individual lives and, in turn, the communities in which they reside. Now, Carl plans to bring his leadership experience, strategic thinking, and, most importantly, his deep belief in Tikkun Olam—the obligation to make the world a better place—to his role as JFS Board Chair, as he guides the agency into the future.
Like many, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Carl saw how easily people could fall into difficult times and how everyone has a role in supporting one another. It was also during this time that he learned more about JFS.
“What struck me most, and what I truly value, is that JFS doesn’t just address one issue; they look at the whole picture,” shared Carl. “Someone facing food insecurity might also need mental health support and job training—JFS gets that. They offer everything under one roof, preventing people from falling through the cracks.”
Over the past three years, Carl has been a JFS Board member, Development Committee Chair, and Co-Chair of the Executive Luncheon. He has seen firsthand the impact JFS has throughout our community as individuals and families are empowered to rebuild their lives and become self-sufficient with JFS’s programs and services—and not just anyone, but rather everyone in need. JFS and our community are fortunate that Carl finds supporting our work is the perfect way to give back to his community, and our work resonates with his own values.
“It's about lifting everyone up, because when our community thrives, we all thrive,” Carl said. “JFS is truly making a difference, one individual, one family at a time.”
In both his career and nonprofit leadership, Carl has sought to create lasting change by helping to shape impactful policy change, and by giving people the tools and support they need to thrive.
Everyone at JFS is excited to work with Carl and the rest of our Board as they strive to increase awareness and engagement throughout our community and share the good work that JFS does every day. Learn more about Carl and our Board of Directors.