Jewish Family Service’s Real Hope…Helping Real People

It would be a fun party any time of year, but Jewish Family Service’s Real Hope truly shines during the holiday season. On Thursday, Dec. 10, the 20th annual fundraiser attracted a spirited group of supporters to eat, drink and be festive on the United Club Level at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. December weather in Denver is often fickle, but partygoers enjoyed an unseasonably warm evening—perfect for those who traveled from out of town to attend the event.

The evening began by honoring the fifth night of Hanukkah, with songs and the lighting of a menorah by Rabbi Steven Foster. From there, guests went on to nosh on small plates and passed hors d’oeuvres prepared by Epicurean Catering. Open bars and four serving stations with an array of delectable bites dotted the space, and a red-carpet photo area gave partygoers the opportunity to mark the occasion with smiles and sassy poses. Talented band members of Digital Pocket provided plenty of upbeat tunes to accent the atmosphere throughout the reception. Guests were then flamboyantly ushered into the awards program area by lavishly costumed performers of Traveling Performers.

Emcee Steven Peckar was a gracious host, reminding the audience that monetary contributions to JFS were welcomed by writing out his own check donation on stage. JFS president and CEO Yana Vishnitsky talked to the crowd about the good works of the organization, and introduced a short video presentation. Event honorees were Adam J. Agron, Kal Zeff Business Leader of the Year, and Andrea Stillman, recipient of the Jack Shapiro Community Service Award. The two were introduced by Vishnitsky and board chair Jane E. Rosenbaum, respectively. After the program? More party food, of course! Guests were able to relax with sumptuous desserts and coffee, as they continued to talk and enjoy the camaraderie and holiday mood of the evening.

Jewish Family Service of Colorado believes in strengthening the community by providing vital services to people in need. Every day, JFS helps people overcome life’s challenges to live fuller, more meaningful lives. Founded in 1872, JFS is a nonsectarian, nonprofit human services agency serving metro Denver and Boulder. JFS helps seniors lie independently at home, provides quality mental health counseling, offers training and job placement to those with developmental disabilities and other barriers to employment, and provides food and financial aid to people in crisis. Every year, the agency benefits nearly 25,000 people of all ages, faiths, incomes and abilities. For more information, call 303-597-5000, visit www.JewishFamilyService.org, and follow JFS on Facebook and Twitter.