JFCS plans free illness/disability fair May 16; presenters sought

By JEWISH REVIEW

article created on: 2010-04-04T00:00:00

On Sunday, May 16, Jewish Family and Child Service will host a free community-wide educational program/resource fair called “A Day of Empowerment: Solutions and Support for Individuals with Acute or Chronic Illness or Disability and their Friends and Families.”

When individuals, families and friends are faced with either acute or chronic illness (their own or that of someone close to them) it is important to know what resources are available and how to connect with them. Whether it’s a need for a few hours of quiet time away from caretaking, a wheelchair for a visiting family member, a spiritual support group, or simply figuring out how to focus your internal resources and move forward—there are so many things that can make the journey less painful and facilitate your healing.

JFCS seeks community members to: lead small group educational breakout sessions/workshops; teach large-group programs; and display information and answer questions about resources they offer (such as support for caregivers, meditation, spiritual and emotional support groups, stress management, journaling, music for healing, bikkur cholim and other volunteer support and healing circles).

The idea for the “Day of Empowerment” came from Sharsheret, a national organization offering a community of support to women of all Jewish backgrounds diagnosed with breast cancer or at increased genetic risk for the disease.

JFCS hopes that the Portland version of “A Day of Empowerment” will connect men and women who share a common life experience—illness or disability—and their families, and provide them with solutions, support and the opportunity to experience something positive and inspiring at a time when they may feel their most isolated. And, that it will also showcase all the resources our community has to offer those facing these challenges.

“A Day of Empowerment” will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., May 16, at Venue Pearl, 323 NW 13th Ave., Portland. The venue has tables, chairs and space to accommodate 400-500 people. There will be no charge to attend. However, registration will be requested to get counts for the small group/workshop presenters.

JFCS would like to offer some workshops/teaching on topics such as: What Jewish texts can teach us about illness; Composing meaningful prayer; Finding calm in meditation, yoga and music; Cooking healthy, kosher food; and the Jewish holidays as an opportunity for renewal.

In addition, JFCS would like to make space available for individuals/organizations that provide information about Jewish genetic illnesses screening and support groups, or organizations like “Gift of Life” that does bone marrow donor identification. Suggestions are sought on any groups that should be included.

Finally, JFCS plans to have some tables available for sponsors including businesses and professional organizations that also offer “solutions and support” to those facing the challenge of serious illness.

These might include: concierge/errand services, home care, counseling services, physical therapy and fitness, transportation, art instruction or therapy, long-term financial planning, immediate financial management, long term care—to name a few possibilities.

This is not a “money-making event” but there will be a small charge for for-profit exhibitor tables to help cover event costs. (Non-profit tables will be free.)

Send suggestions for event teachers, exhibitors or topics to: Susan Goldstein, JFCS community liaison committee facilitator, at susan.da@verizon.net; and/or Chana Andler, director of JFCS marketing & development, at chana@jfcs-portland.org or 503-226-7079 ext. 116.