Programs JEVS Care at Home About Support JEVS

Author: Erin Giberson

The JEVS Independence Network: Celebrating Growth and Innovation! 

Posted on by Erin Giberson

By JEVS Staff

The JEVS Independence Network has so much to celebrate! We started thirteen years ago and have worked with over 100 members.  The Independence Network supports people in launching their independence. This support includes advancing careers, making meaningful community connections, and developing life-long friendships. As we establish our third program location in Ambler, PA, we know that we are stronger together. Our members and their families help focus on our mission and always look for new ideas to move forward. 

We are lucky to work with local groups, businesses, and schools. Right now, we are working with Temple University’s Occupational Therapy department to start a peer support program. This program will help us reach more young adults who want to connect. Members will get to share helpful tips and support each other in becoming more independent. We are also starting a wellness program to help members set health goals, try new things, and have fun getting healthier with friends! Over the past year, we have been reviewing our programs to find ways to make our support even better. 

Sean B., a program member and future peer supporter, says it best: “Before the JEVS Independence Network I questioned if I would ever have a friend at all. Then another member told me about JEVS, and my life goals came true. Now my apartment is a revolving door with visitors, I have made good friends in and out of the program, and I have built bonds that are strong. We (members) want to be there for other people who need to know that they are not alone. It helps to hear from others who have faced and overcome the same kinds of obstacles. It feels good to know there are peers who care and understand.” 

 

The JEVS Independence Network Joins the Collingswood Holiday Parade

Posted on by Erin Giberson

By: Natalie DiSandro, Associate Director, JEVS Independence Network Collingswood

For the first time, members of the JEVS Independence Network program in Collingswood participated in the Annual Holiday Parade—and had an amazing experience. The effort was led by Mentor Associate Nancy W., who used her local connections and community spirit to make it all happen.

Nancy has lived in Collingswood since 1989, back when Haddon Avenue had few shops and no restaurants. “Collingswood is a small, nice, and friendly town,” she said. “It’s a great place to raise children, with so many activities, sports, and things for kids to get involved in.”

Nancy was looking for something new when she spoke with Abby Kasoff—founder of Say it With Clay and a community partner of the Independence Network—who suggested she consider joining JEVS. It sounded rewarding, and Nancy came on as a part-time community support counselor in May 2023. By October, she had moved into a full-time role, becoming even more connected with the work and the community.

Nancy’s idea to get the JEVS Independence Network involved in the parade came from her own experience helping organize it years ago. “We always made sure community groups were included—like the Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and local fundraisers,” she said. “I thought, the JEVS Independence Network is an important part of the community. We should be walking in the parade too!”

With this in mind, Nancy reached out to the municipal worker managing the event, completed the application, and began organizing. She hosted two prep events to get the group ready. The team decided on a Toyland theme, decorating a truck with wrapped packages, stuffed animals, and festive touches. Members wrapped boxes, taped on toys, and added bows. Nancy also provided fun costumes for everyone—ladies picked out dresses, while the guys wore antlers, ties, and light-up necklaces.

When parade day arrived, the excitement was high. Members gathered for hot chocolate and donuts before heading to their spot in the lineup. With music playing and the crowds cheering, the group danced, smiled, and interacted with the community. Some handed out fidget toys to kids along the route, creating joyful moments for everyone involved.

The feedback was positive and encouraging. “Everyone was so excited to be involved,” Nancy said. “Next time, we’ll start earlier and make it even bigger and better.” One neighbor even called them “the nicest group in the parade.”

For Nancy, it was a truly meaningful day. “I was proud to walk with them down the street. We are part of the community. We are here, and we belong here. It felt good for people to see that.”

How JEVS Can Help Your Business Recruit, Train, and Upskill Employees

Posted on by Erin Giberson

Finding good workers isn’t always easy. Many businesses struggle to hire employees or make sure their current workers have the right skills. That’s where JEVS Human Services comes in!

We help businesses find, train, and support workers. Whether you need new employees or want to help your team learn new skills, our services can help.

Train Your Team with Education & Skills Programs

Successful businesses need well-trained workers. JEVS offers training programs to help your employees learn new skills or to prepare new workers for your company.

With our “earn-to-learn” model, employees can train on-the-job through apprenticeships. We also handle the paperwork and find the right candidates for you, making the process easy.

“JEVS has helped us cultivate a more skilled workforce and offer real career paths,” said Rob Coleman of i2m Solutions. “The support has exceeded expectations.”

Want to help your team grow? Learn more about apprenticeships through JEVS.

Find Great Employees Without the Stress

Need to fill open roles? Our job placement services connect businesses with skilled and motivated workers. We also host job fairs, info sessions, and hiring events to help you find the right match.

Christina Wilson of East West Label shared, “JEVS helped us hire excellent candidates. Their staff really understood what we needed as a small business.”

Looking for your next great employee? Contact JEVS’ Director of Employment Services, Souleymane Fall.

Why Businesses Choose JEVS

We save you time and effort by handling hiring and training, so you can focus on running your business. Our services are tailored to meet the unique needs of your industry. With a track record of success, we’ve helped many businesses find and train the right workers.

“When we need workers, JEVS connects us with Ukrainian nationals seeking employment. It’s a blessing—for us and for them,” says Bob Cohen, President of Acme Corrugated Box Co.

David Saverio Dessberg of Rivers Casino shares, “JEVS consistently brings us workforce-ready candidates and creates meaningful ways for our team to give back.”

Don’t let hiring problems or skill gaps slow you down. JEVS Human Services is here to help!

Contact us today to learn how we can support your business!

 

Support Education with JEVS through EITC Contributions

Posted on by Erin Giberson

Did you know that JEVS is an approved Educational Improvement Organization (EIO) under Pennsylvania’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program? This means that businesses and individuals can support JEVS and receive substantial tax benefits at the same time.

What is EITC?

EITC, or the Educational Improvement Tax Credit, is a program designed by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) to encourage businesses and individuals to contribute to educational organizations like JEVS. Eligible contributors can receive a tax credit equal to 90% of their Pennsylvania state tax liability.

How Can You Contribute?

If you’re an approved EITC business or an individual looking to support education, consider directing your contributions to JEVS. Your support will directly benefit JEVS’ programs and initiatives aimed at enhancing education and workforce development in our community.

Learn More and Take Action

For more detailed information on the EITC program and how you can participate, visit the PA DCED’s official EITC program page.

If you experience any issues accessing the link, please copy and paste the following URL into your web browser: https://dced.pa.gov/programs/educational-improvement-tax-credit-program-eitc/

Ready to make a meaningful impact? Contribute today to support JEVS’ programs and services.

When you invest in education, you invest in the future of our community. Together, we can create lasting change through the EITC program with JEVS.

The 2025 Spring Fling Job Fair: A PA CareerLink® Recruitment Event

Posted on by Erin Giberson

As an American Job Center, PA CareerLink® Suburban Station, operated by JEVS Human Services (JEVS), provides Philadelphia residents with career development resources and job placement assistance.

It often holds recruitment events, resource fairs, and jobs fairs like its recent Spring Fling Job Fair 2025 that was a huge success, with over 300 people attending the event!

The Spring Fling Job Fair 2025 provided job opportunities for PA CareerLink® customers, along with no-cost services and items. The PA CareerLink® Job Development Team worked with other businesses to secure resources for attendees.

During the job fair, Stand Up Wireless gave out 42 cell phones to help people stay connected with potential employers and loved ones. Lehigh Valley Barbers provided haircuts for 22 people, helping boost their confidence and appearance. ShopRite held on-site interviews, and 21 candidates moved forward in the hiring process, with two individuals getting jobs right there on-the-spot!

Nine other employers also attended and met with participants: Aramark, Auto Zone, Community College of Philadelphia (CCP), Fresh Grocer, Goodwill, Loews Hotel, Penn Asian Senior Services (PASSi), SPARC, and Volunteers of America.

These results show the positive impact that PA CareerLink® Suburban Station has on the community.

Thank you to the PA CareerLink® Job Development Team members Charmaine, Kemah, Kendrick, Sheila, Terry, and Louis for contributing to the success of this event. Their hard work made it possible for more people to attend and receive free resources. Thank you also to Nicki W., site administrator of PA CareerLink® Suburban Station, for her help and support.

Individuals looking for jobs and resources should visit their nearest PA CareerLink® Center. To find a Center near you, please visit: PA CareerLink Contact Us

Building Careers in Information Technology: Meet Khandaker and Larry

Posted on by Erin Giberson

Khandaker F. and Larry A.-K., two driven young IT professionals and proud alumni of JEVS Human Services (JEVS) Project WOW, embark on a transformative journey of professional growth and self-discovery. So far, their Project WOW training and internships have earned them CompTIA A+ Certifications, Google Cybersecurity Certifications, and Digital Navigation Certifications.

They use their acquired skills in real-world situations at JEVS as IT Help Desk Analyst interns and members of the JEVS TED Team (technology, evaluation, and data analytics).

Khandaker, an analytical thinker with a deep passion for technology, aspires to become a system administrator, eager to make a lasting impact on technology and the digital world. Larry, a charismatic problem-solver, hones his skills to uplift his Philadelphia community. Both provide consistent, timely, and skilled support to departments and staff.

Though their backgrounds and ambitions differ, their paths converge each day at JEVS, supporting the growing IT needs of JEVS’ employees, collaborating as Digital Navigation literacy trainers, and contributing to complex projects, including leveraging Microsoft Power Automate to enhance the agency’s newly developed Employee Change Management Portal (ECMP).

As they tackle real-world IT challenges, embrace mentorship, and navigate personal hurdles, Khandaker and Larry realize that success is not just about technical expertise but resilience, collaboration, and adaptability. Their Project WOW training and IT internship at JEVS equips them with invaluable career skills and fosters a friendship that reshapes their perspectives on leadership, service, and ambition.

A testament to education, camaraderie, and perseverance, their growth at JEVS underscores the power of opportunity and the lasting impact of a supportive community—one that embodies the very heart of the JEVS’ mission to foster economic security and independence.

If you are interested in learning more about Khandaker and Larry’s experience at JEVS, JEVS Project WOW, or JEVS Digital Navigation training services, email [email protected].

Committed to the Mission of JEVS: Meet Jill

Posted on by Erin Giberson

With nearly ten years in her current role, Jill brings both experience and a strong passion for JEVS’ mission of helping individuals gain independence and economic security. As the Director of the Independence Network, her work reflects a long-standing commitment to inclusion, personal growth, and supporting others in leading self-directed lives. Read on to learn what drew her to JEVS, what advice she has for others, and what keeps her grounded outside of work.

How long have you been with JEVS?

I have been with JEVS for almost ten years; however, I also worked for JEVS between 1994 and 1998.

What attracted you to your role and JEVS?

When I learned about the JEVS Independence Network program model to me, I knew that it closely aligned with my core values. The program is committed to partnering with people with disabilities to support them in leading the life that they choose. It also helps our communities recognize that everyone benefits from diversity and inclusion. I have always valued the commitment of JEVS leadership to involve stakeholders at all levels of our work.

What advice would you give to someone interested in a career at JEVS?

The collective expertise and knowledge of the people at JEVS helps me to learn something new all the time – even after 30+ years of working. A career at JEVS promises lifelong learning and opportunities to grow personally and professionally.

What’s something that most people don’t know about you?

Family is everything to me. My three sons and husband help me to stay grounded in what is most important in life.

 

Celebrating the 2025 Grow with JEVS Host Committee

Posted on by Erin Giberson

We’re excited to recognize the incredible Host Committee for our annual fundraiser, Grow with JEVS! This dedicated group of leaders, advocates, and philanthropists represent the many partnerships that we’ll celebrate at this year’s event.

About Grow with JEVS

On June 5, 2025, we’ll gather at the Crystal Tea Room to support JEVS Human Services (JEVS) mission of working with individuals to create sustainable paths to independence and economic security. Guests will enjoy an evening of celebration and inspiration.

Meet the Grow with JEVS Host Committee

These individuals are lending not only their names to the event but also their time, energy, and resources*. Thank you for helping make it a success!

Luke Bernstein, PA Chamber of Business & Industry

Bonnie Camarda, Salvation Army

Patrick Clancy, Philadelphia Works

Jim Dever, Bank of America

William Farmer, Aetna, Inc.

Dan Fitzpatrick, Citizens Bank

Laurie and Jeffrey Franz

Chekemma Fulmore-Townsend, Hamilton Foundation

Stacy Holland, Elevate 215

Ned and Marcia Kaplin

Richard and Lindsey Lazer, Philadelphia Parking Authority

Keith Leaphart, Jefferson

Manny Mar, Santander Bank

Sharmain Matlock Turner, Urban Affairs Coalition

Joseph O’Connell, Emerald Business Supply, Inc.

Marcel Pratt, Ballard Spahr, LLP

Pedro Ramos, Philadelphia Foundation

Vanessa Smith, ServiceNow

Mark Squilla, Philadelphia City Council

Joseph Staerk, JDB Service Group

Brett Studner, Acrisure/Odell Studner Group

Ivan and Etta Szeftel

Dalila Wilson-Scott, Comcast NBC Universal

Benjamin Zuckerman and Marian Robinson

 

Join Us

Click here to purchase tickets and learn more about sponsorship opportunities. Whether you’re attending, donating, or simply spreading the word, your support makes a difference. We can’t wait to see you there!

*List current as of March 28, 2025

Essential Kitchen Safety Tips for Dementia Care at Home 

Posted on by Erin Giberson

By Thomas H.

Caring for someone with dementia at home requires awareness and patience. One area that needs special attention is the kitchen, where potential hazards can pose risks to their safety. By implementing simple precautions and strategies, caregivers can create a safer environment while maintaining their loved one’s independence. Here are some essential kitchen safety tips for caregivers of individuals with dementia.

Clear Clutter and Maintain Order

Keep countertops and surfaces clear of unnecessary items to minimize distractions and confusion. Clutter can overwhelm individuals with dementia and increase the risk of accidents. Organize cabinets and drawers neatly, placing commonly used items within easy reach. This simple step can enhance kitchen safety and promote a sense of familiarity.

Label and Color-Code

Labeling drawers, cabinets, and containers can help individuals with dementia identify items more easily. Use large, clear labels with bold lettering. Additionally, consider implementing a color-coding system for different types of items (e.g., red for cooking utensils, blue for cleaning supplies). Consistency in labeling and color-coding can reduce confusion and promote independence in the kitchen.

Install Safety Devices

Equip the kitchen with safety devices to prevent accidents and injuries. Install stove knob covers to make sure burners aren’t turned on accidentally. Automatic shut-off devices for stoves and ovens will minimize the risk of fire. Place non-slip mats near sinks and work areas to prevent slips and falls. These simple additions can provide an extra layer of protection for individuals with dementia.

Supervise and Simplify Tasks

Supervision is crucial when individuals with dementia are in the kitchen. Encourage them to engage in simple tasks, such as setting the table or stirring ingredients. Be sure to also provide guidance and assistance as needed. Break down tasks into manageable steps and avoid overwhelming them with complex instructions. By supervising and simplifying tasks, you can promote a sense of accomplishment while ensuring their safety.

Create a Safe Cooking Environment

When cooking with individuals with dementia, prioritize safety at every step. Use appliance timers to remind them when food is ready or when it’s time to turn off the stove. Choose simple recipes with fewer steps to reduce the risk of confusion. Avoid leaving cooking unattended and always supervise the use of kitchen appliances. By creating a safe cooking environment, you can minimize potential risks and enhance their kitchen experience.

Adding these kitchen safety tips to your caregiving routine can help protect individuals with dementia from accidents and promote their independence in the kitchen. Remember to maintain a supportive and patient attitude while assisting them with daily tasks. By prioritizing safety and adopting practical strategies, you can create a nurturing environment where your loved one can thrive.

JEVS Front Line Supervisor Earns Additional Certification

Posted on by Erin Giberson

By JEVS Staff

Congratulations to Pam Williams for achieving The Front Line Supervisor Certification from the NADSP E-Badge Academy! Pam’s accomplishment marks a significant milestone as she becomes our first Front Line Supervisor (FLS) to earn this distinction.

The NADSP E-Badge Academy is a way for DSPs and FLSs to receive recognition for the education they receive and the on-the-job competencies they demonstrate by obtaining a national recognition certificate.

Our Front Line Supervisors who closely with the DSPs at JEVS who play a crucial role in supporting individuals daily, assisting with tasks from dressing and eating to managing appointments and medications. They organize outings, promote community engagement, and ensure the safety and independence of those they support around the clock.

Congratulations again to Pam Williams as she joins the group of our dedicated DSPs who have obtained their certification and their exceptional achievement.

Front Line Supervisor Certification

Pam Williams

 

To learn more about JEVS Home Care and Residential Services, click here.  

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