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Tag: JEVS Human Services

A Second Summer of Success with C2L-PHL

Posted on by Cassandra DeMas

Career Connected Learning Philadelphia (C2L-PHL) had a second great summer of learning and growth! The program, which began in 2024, kept growing in 2025 with tremendous learning opportunities for its young participants. 

This summer, C2L-PHL teamed up with 53 non-profit groups that help young people learn new skills. Some programs engaged directly with participants for the entire summer. Others partnered with local businesses to give youth hands-on experiences. Young people took part at 550 different sites around Philadelphia. 

In all, more than 7,000 young Philadelphians aged 12-24 joined the program! 

These young people in C2L-PHL got paid to learn. That’s one of the best parts of the program! This summer, about $8.5 million went to young Philadelphians. That money supported students, helped families, and boosted the local economy. Above all, it gave young people a chance to focus on their career growth. 

Altogether, participants spent 864,511 hours gaining experience this summer! They used this time to build a strong start for their future careers. Along with hands-on learning, they also took part in helpful training. Topics included money management, good professional habits, and physical and emotional health. 

At summer’s end, the students took part in a survey to offer their feedback. They shared that they learned important money skills, like how to save, make a budget, and spend wisely. Most people said they felt satisfied with their experience.  

We shared these results at the C2L-PHL Summer 2025 Provider Convening, held on October 16, 2025. At the event, we took time to celebrate the amazing providers who make C2L-PHL happen. We also shared our successes from the summer and discussed the ways we plan to keep growing and improving C2L-PHL programming.  

This summer was a big success for C2L-PHL, and there’s more to come! Sign up for the mailing list to stay in the loop.

Spotlight: Working with the Bank of America Student Leaders®

Posted on by Cassandra DeMas

Career Connected Learning Philadelphia (C2L-PHL) gives young people ages 12-24 a chance to get paid while they learn. This summer, C2L-PHL also worked with the Bank of America Student Leaders® program. Five interns helped behind the scenes to make C2L-PHL a success.

While the interns want different future jobs, they all want the same thing now—to get real work experience. Barakey, an incoming freshman at the University of Pennsylvania, said, “I applied for the Bank of America internship because it offered a significant opportunity to experience real world work before starting college. I was also drawn to the chance to work at a nonprofit in my own community.”

Caring about the Philadelphia community has helped the interns succeed. Hana, a rising senior at Masterman School, said, “the rest of the Bank of America interns [and I] helped change the C2L application by making it more user-friendly.” Working at C2L-PHL meant they had to think about what other people needed in the application process

The interns didn’t just learn about working in an office. They also learned about building their careers. Alejandro, a rising senior at Friend’s Central School, said, “I learned how important networking is to create long lasting connections that will benefit my future. I gained valuable connections that I can use for a lifetime in the business world and outside.”

This internship was more than just something to do over the summer. The Bank of America Student Leaders® gained real experience helping their community, and it shaped how they see their futures. Isabella, an incoming senior at Carver High School, said, “it’s made me more interested in mission-driven work. Whether I go into finance or tech, I want to stay connected to projects that create real social value.”

The eight-week internship went by fast. Looking back on it, Ridham, a rising senior at Camden County Technical School, said, “From day one, the people were amazing, friendly, supportive, and welcoming, which made every day enjoyable. I learned important skills like time management, staying organized, paying attention to detail, and how teamwork makes a big difference.”

One thing is clear: these young leaders have bright futures. The JEVS C2L-PHL team is proud of them and excited to see what they do next.

Join the JEVS Life & Legacy Program This Make-A-Will Month!

Posted on by Rossella Alla

What is Make-a-Will Month?

Make-A-Will Month, recognized every August, is a national reminder to take an important step in securing your future and protecting your loved ones. It is the perfect opportunity to create or update your will and estate plan, ensuring that your wishes are honored and your legacy lives on.

Whether you are just starting your estate planning journey or reviewing an existing plan, Make-A-Will Month is a chance to reflect on the values that matter most to you and make a lasting difference in the lives of others.

Why Include JEVS in Your Will?

By including JEVS in your will or estate plan, you help build a future where individuals and families can access vital programs such as:

  • Career and technical education

  • Job readiness and placement

  • Home care for older adults and individuals with disabilities

  • Social services that promote independence and economic security

Your planned gift, whether a bequest, charitable gift annuity, or trust, provides long-term support to sustain JEVS’ mission. It is more than a donation; it’s a commitment to changing lives for generations to come.

Leave a Legacy of Opportunity

Estate planning is a powerful way to support causes that align with your values. When you include JEVS in your estate plan, your legacy helps:

  • Empower individuals with education and employment

  • Provide compassionate care and support

  • Strengthen communities

 

For more information on estate planning with JEVS, please contact Katie Shinholster, Chief of Advancement, at [email protected] or 215-854-1892.

C2L-PHL Summer 2025 Kickoff: Urban Affairs Coalition

Posted on by Cassandra DeMas

Career Connected Learning Philadelphia (C2L-PHL) helps young people in Philadelphia, ages 12 to 24, get paid while they learn. This summer, young people are connecting with over 50 organizations across the city.

We visited some of the young people at the Urban Affairs Coalition (UAC). They were getting ready for a summer full of learning and new experiences.

At UAC, all students start with a week-long bootcamp. In this bootcamp, they learn important life and job skills. They talk about how to manage money, how to get ready for a job, career options, and more.

After bootcamp, each student is paired with a local business that fits their interests. UAC partners with over 100 businesses in many different fields. They get hands-on experience with businesses in health and beauty, banking, science and tech, social justice, and the arts.

Some students can even earn certifications! Some earn a cosmetology license or an OSHA safety certificate. These are great for building their resumes. Young people are getting paid while building skills for their future careers!

UAC is just one of more than 50 organizations that C2L-PHL works with during the summer. Every program is a little different, but all of them help young people in Philly learn, grow, and get paid.

Want to learn more? Sign up for our mailing list to hear about upcoming C2L-PHL opportunities!

JEVS Work Ready Celebrates Graduates Earning High School Diplomas and Healthcare Certifications

Posted on by Erin Giberson

By Maggie C.

The JEVS Work Ready Graduation at The Arts Ballroom in Philadelphia celebrated participants earning diplomas and health care certifications. Work Ready provides employment services to individuals who receive TANF and SNAP assistance, supporting them in overcoming obstacles to self-sufficiency. Work Ready is one of many JEVS programs that support individuals in gaining independence and economic security. Since 2021, it has helped hundreds of individuals succeed.

The graduation began with remarks from Alberta Lloyd, Work Ready Instructor. She praised the participants for their hard work and dedication to completing their programs. Keynote speaker Yolanda Marks spoke about personal growth, connecting it to the graduates, her own life, and the film, The Pursuit of Happyness.

Graduate speeches highlighted the excitement of the moment and the tight-knit and supportive community they found in the Work Ready program. Many graduates, along with their families and support systems in the audience, expressed deep pride and accomplishment. Nichelle Lee, who previously earned her high school diploma through the JEVS Work Ready program, received her phlebotomy certification. She was excited to share that she had job interviews lined up, as well as an externship in phlebotomy. Nichelle’s speech kept coming back to her community, emphasizing that her class “started together and finished together.”

Congratulations to the graduates on their achievements!

Celebrating Community: Acrisure/Odell Studner Group Sponsors Grow with JEVS

Posted on by Erin Giberson

By JEVS Staff

For decades, Brett Studner has supported JEVS Human Services (JEVS), helping the organization grow and serve the community. A former board member and current advancement committee member, Brett continues as a donor and advocate. As a Partner at Acrisure (formerly the Odell Studner Group), he and his organization are sponsoring this year’s Grow with JEVS. In this Q&A, he shares how JEVS creates opportunities and positively impacts the lives of those it serves.

1. What motivates Acrisure/Odell Studner Group to sponsor Grow with JEVS?

I am excited about every event that JEVS has where we can show the tremendous impact we have in changing lives for so, so many deserving individuals. For every person that gets involved & every additional dollar we can raise, JEVS can further impact our community.

2. What inspires you (or surprises you most) about JEVS’ work?

The incredible work that they do, along with the people – including JEVS employees, leadership, volunteers, and most importantly, the wonderful people they assist – creates an environment where tear-jerking positive stories are commonplace in the JEVS world. As a volunteer, JEVS is “work” that you feel & that makes all the difference.

3. How do you see the partnership between Acrisure/Odell Studner Group and JEVS? 

Acrisure/Odell Studner Group has been serving the Philadelphia community for over 90 years and JEVS almost as long. Giving back to OUR community and helping people in need is part of our core values and culture. Doing so through JEVS, an organization that changes so many lives and lives our values, is an easy decision for us.

4. What would you say to encourage other businesses in Philadelphia to support JEVS’ mission?  

JEVS does so much for so many in our community, but the one thing that attracted me the most was their commitment to help people help themselves. Unlike many other social service organizations that are awesome at assisting people with immediate needs (financial support and food for example), JEVS takes it one step further by teaching people how to pull themselves up, regain self-worth & self-confidence and fend for themselves.

Supporting the Mission of JEVS 

Acrisure/Odell Studner Group’s support for JEVS demonstrates how community involvement drives meaningful change. To be part of the Grow with JEVS annual fundraiser, click here to purchase tickets. If you’re interested in sponsorship, please contact Katherine Shinholster, Chief of Advancement, for details. 

JEVS Staff Gathers for Third Annual Employee Winterfest

Posted on by Erin Giberson

JEVS Human Services staff had a blast at the 2025 Winterfest – a country-themed bash at Rivers Casino. Colleagues from across the organization gathered for this year’s annual employee celebration.

Winterfest 2025

Winterfest 2025The festivities kicked off with welcoming remarks from JEVS President and CEO, Cynthia F. Figueroa. Her message set the stage for a fun and welcoming evening.

Many employees decked out in western attire. They also enjoyed delicious food and lively atmosphere. Games, prizes, line dancing, and even pony races made it a great time!

The fun continued with a raffle featured themed baskets, and each person’s entry ticket became a chance to win. To get an extra raffle ticket, employees were invited to bring a donation of a baby item like diapers or wipes. Donated items are shared with JEVS program participants.

Melissa K and Devez P tie for best dressedThe winners of the basket raffle were: Maritza D. (Rivers Casino basket); Iryna H. (Home Depot basket); Nina H. (Movie Night basket); and Salimah S. (Dinner & Wine basket).

In the trivia challenge, multiple winners received prizes for correctly answering all questions. Two employees tied for best dressed: Melissa K. and Devez P., who placed for the second year in a row! 

The event brought staff together for a special evening of celebrating and connecting.

2025 Winterfest Committee

Special shoutout to the 2025 JEVS Winterfest committee for putting together an unforgettable celebration!

Many thanks to JEVS Human Services for this fun annual employee event. 

Want to join our team? Click this link to see current openings.

JEVS Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month!

Posted on by Erin Giberson

By JEVS Staff

Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15th – October 15th) is a time to celebrate the accomplishments, histories, and traditions of Hispanic culture. The Hispanic population in the U.S. is very diverse, including many different people and backgrounds. This month is a time to remember the histories, ideas, and contributions that these communities make to improve our workplaces and society.

JEVS recognizes Hispanic Heritage Month and promotes Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Well-being (DEI-W) in the workplace. JEVS Latin@ Employee Resource Group (ERG) celebrates the Hispanic Heritage Month theme, “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together”. It invites all employees to join in special activities that honor Hispanic Heritage and build community.

Its first event, Pastelillo and Sorullo Making, brought together JEVS staff and showcased Puerto Rican dishes. Many employees from different departments worked together to organize the making and sharing of pastellio and sorullo.

Luis Gonzalez, Vice President of Workforce Development, said that the Latin@ ERG group saw Hispanic Heritage Month as an opportunity engage staff, especially the Latino community, and bring everyone together. Rossella Alla, a JEVS employee in the Latin@ ERG, added, “I’m really thankful for today. It felt like a big family coming together to prepare a holiday feast.”  

JEVS Latin@ ERG plans to host other activities to recognize the diversity, impact, and history of Hispanic culture. Remember to also check out the Hispanic Heritage Month activities hosted by the City of Philadelphia, including salsa and bachata dance parties at Love Park! 

JEVS Human Services Announces Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2025-2027

Posted on by Erin Giberson

The plan will guide the organization over the next 3 years in meeting the needs of various communities in the tri-state area.

Philadelphia, PA (September 18, 2024) — JEVS Human Services (JEVS) has announced its strategic plan for the fiscal years 2025-2027, titled “Expanding Opportunities. Fostering Independence.” These priorities merge the mission and vision of JEVS into a forward-looking plan to address the growing and changing needs of the Greater Delaware Valley communities we serve. 

The plan was developed by more than 500 voices, including interviews with external stakeholders, participants, guidance from the employee strategic planning committee, executive leadership, and the board of directors. Over the next 3 years, we are committed to the following strategic priorities:  

  1. Expanding integrated, innovative, and sustainable programs. 
  2. Increasing visibility and influencing stakeholders to benefit those we serve. 
  3. Maintaining JEVS’ financial sustainability. 
  4. Being a mission-driven employer of choice.  

“Our new strategic plan rests on a solid foundation of more than eight decades of experience, passion, and our resolve to work with individuals to create sustainable paths to independence,” said JEVS President and CEO, Cynthia F. Figueroa. “This plan will help position JEVS as a leading nonprofit, locally and nationally.”  

“This strategic plan is a testament to our dedication to serving Greater Philadelphia communities with excellence and compassion,” said JEVS Board Chair, Laurie Franz. “We are excited for what lies ahead and confident that with the collective efforts of our staff, partners, and supporters, we can make significant strides in addressing unmet needs for the communities we serve.” 

The plan will occur during JEVS’ 85th year of operation, which we will celebrate in 2026, as the U.S. celebrates its 250th founding. JEVS began in 1941 to help Jewish refugees fleeing the Nazis during World War II resettle in the United States and find meaningful work. The strategic plan builds on those roots and will guide us into the future as a leading force in workforce development, healthcare programs, youth services, and essential careers which provide pathways to independence.  

We look forward to sharing our progress with our stakeholders and supporters in the coming years.  

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ABOUT JEVS  

JEVS Human Services (JEVS) has an 80+ year history in working with individuals to create sustainable paths to independence and economic security. JEVS’ vision is to help every person achieve personal independence and fulfillment. Our mission and vision reflect JEVS’ long-standing history of helping people connect to opportunity and cultivate independence.    

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