Thriving in a changing world: JFS and the NHSA PowerNET conference
JFS had the honor of hosting The Network of Jewish Human Service Agencies (NJHSA) PowerNET conference in Denver at the end of April. PowerNET is a multi-day conference where approximately 800 human service professionals, agency leaders, and partner organizations exchange ideas, share successes, and explore challenges. The event aims to empower participants with strategies to strengthen their work and communities and drive impactful change across the Jewish human service sectors.
This year’s PowerNET theme was “Thriving in a Changing World,” and JFS had several staff chosen to present workshops, and we hosted site visits at our Denver office, JFS Altius Farms, and at one of our employment services partner hotels for refuges employment.
Participants toured our Mobile Food & Hygiene Pantry and Weinberg Food Pantry and learned how we address hunger through dignified, client-choice food assistance. Not only did attendees learn about our food security initiatives, but they also discovered how JFS combines emergency financial assistance with wraparound support services to support our clients. The visit also included a presentation about how we support economically vulnerable Jewish individuals and families.
Visitors to JFS Altius Farms learned how we are revolutionizing urban farming through cutting-edge aeroponic Tower Gardens in our rooftop greenhouse and unique mushroom cultivation in repurposed shipping containers. We shared how our sustainable agriculture project produces fresh, local produce and creates valuable workforce development opportunities in the community.
We showcased the incredible collaboration we’ve built with Hyatt Regency, Grand Hyatt, and the Thompson Hotel over the past few years to help refugees secure employment in Denver. Participants met with JFS refugee clients who have benefited from our partnership with Hyatt, toured various Hyatt work environments where refugees have been successfully placed, and listened to a conversation with key Hyatt employees who have made this partnership a success and members of our Employment Services department. The visit also included breakout group discussions led by members of our employment services team that focused on how agencies can continue to develop thriving partnerships to ensure refugees are welcomed into the ever-changing workforce.
Several JFS staff held presentations and workshops on topics, including:
KidSuccess: A school-based kids’ success story, which highlighted our three-decade journey about how school-based therapy can transform lives, strengthen communities, and advance educational outcomes.
Accessibility, Accommodations, and Universal Design: Making belonging a reality, where we shared how we are working to increase accessibility, provide accommodations, and further belonging for individuals with a broad range of disabilities.
Transforming Jewish Human Service Teams Using a Servant Leadership Approach.
A Case Study on Planning & Launching a Non-Profit Social Enterprise: Hydroponic Farming.
We’re already looking forward to next year’s PowerNET conference! Thank you to the NJHSA, sponsors, participants, and everyone who made the event successful!