JanMarie Brown, Director of Jewish Child Care Association's Gateways Program, will speak about JCCA's innovative treatment program for trafficked youth on Monday, April 22nd, at the conference "We Were Slaves: The Jewish Community Unites Against Sex Trafficking." She will be joined by other experts in the field, who will explore the history of sex trafficking and our obligation to combat it. JCCA is one of the sponsoring agencies. The conference will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 130 East 59th Street, New York City. For more information contact liberchuckl@ujafedny.org or 212-836-1633.

On March 8th, Mark Hetfield was privileged to participate in a meeting on behalf of Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society at the White House with fourteen faith leaders and leaders of faith-based organizations. The President called the meeting to discuss strategy for Comprehensive Immigration Reform (CIR), now called "Common Sense Immigration Reform."

Mark was honored to be the only representative of the Jewish community in the room and encouraged the President to speak about immigration and refugees in his Passover message and whenever he speaks to a Jewish audience.

Mark reminded the President that prior to the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948 immigration was the most important issue for the Jewish community, and that it remains a core issue, as it speaks to the most fundamental Jewish values and experience. The President acknowledged this, responding: "You know what it's like to be a stranger." Continue reading here.

Over 150 students and adults turned out to see the amazingly moving musical/play Freedom Song (entire cast pictured) on Tuesday in Cherry Hill New Jersey. The troupe shared real-life stories of addiction, recovery and living through dependency on drugs and alcohol. This Cherry Hill, NJ performance was one of only three Northeast performances scheduled for this unique show. After the performance, the cast took questions from teens and parents in the audience. It was a memorable, impactful evening that will stay with attendees for a long time.

Thankful for the collaboration of Jewish Family & Children's Service of Southern New Jersey, Department of Jewish Education, Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey, and area schools for bringing this worthwhile program to the community.