FamilyMatters Network’s Post

Transcript

To our Jafco family, we pray for the State of Israel in this horrific time of war. We are filled with shock and grief. Our hearts go out to all those affected by this attack by Hamas, both in Israel and those with family ties to Israel within our own community. In truth, this devastating, unprecedented event has impacted the entire world. The gatherings and images of support and solidarity with Israel coming in from around the world are unprecedented. And are truly beacons of hope for the future. As the founding CEO of Jafco and having been born in Israel myself, sleep has not come easy these past few days, just as I know it has not come easy to all of you. I also know that Jeff goes mission of supporting children and families in the Jewish community and beyond impacted by trauma, child abuse and developmental disabilities is so deeply important to all of you and we thank you and need to continue. Those life saving services. We have children living with us at the Children's Village. This is their home and there are children and families who are depending on us as a lifeline at all four of our sites, 3000 children in total, each and every year. As a leader, it's difficult to know the right thing to do at times like this. But what we have learned from our friends in Israel is that we cannot give up, we cannot live in fear, and we cannot allow the terrorists to control our lives. We need to continue to live our lives and our commitments to tycoon, alum, the repair of the world. We need to come together as a community to talk with one another and find a way to show our support for Israel. In honor of the thousands of families impacted by the war and the 1400 who were murdered and taken from us After thoughtful consultation with the Board of Trustees of Jeffco, we would like to share 4 areas of thought with you. First and foremost is our financial and emotional support. Of Israel. We encourage every member of our Jafco family to donate to a reputable charity that supports Israel directly. We do hope that your support of Israel in her time of need will not interfere with your support of the children of Jafco. But if you have to select only one cause, then Israel is your first priority. Right now. There is no discussion for those of you who have the ability to give your financial support to Israel while also maintaining your support. Of the children of Jafco, we would be so grateful. Psychologists are telling us that gathering together with friends and family during times of crisis is healthy and can actually be healing during times like this. With healing in mind, Jafco will continue to hold all of our upcoming events that are scheduled because we cannot support our children without them. We will make sure that at each Jafco event we will take time to talk and hug and support one another to sing the Israeli national anthem together. And light a memorial candle for those whom we have lost to send prayers and compassion for the hostages and those who are injured. We will stand as one community with Israel. Saving lives and repairing the world are the greatest Jewish values. And with your support, we intend to dedicate Jafco's life saving work to honor the life of every innocent victim of this war. Sadly, there are already thousands. Jeff Go will also be donating A portion of the proceeds from each and every one of our events to support. Children and families in Israel impacted by their this horrific war. We will do our best to ensure that our event materials and programs are sensitive, respectful, and healing. We encourage everyone to take it day by day and try to get out of the house, see friends and family, and attend functions and events that are in your calendar. Take it one day at a time and if you're not feeling up to it then just take a day to breathe and to rest. self-care during difficult times. Is so important. We encourage everyone to stay away from the social media as it relates to the war. The posts and the videos that are circulating are traumatizing. Be sure that you are not watching the news 24/7 either. It's important to stay informed, but it's also important to take a break even before you feel overwhelmed. Before going to bed, be sure that you take at least a one hour break from all electronic devices. Spend quality times with loved ones. Nurture your body. Console with healthy food, water movement and spirituality. If coming to an event for Jeff or any charity that nourishes your soul is good for you, then it's a good idea to attend and take a break from listening to the news of the war. If you need a day at home or don't feel that you should attend, then please know that it is OK too. You can still support the children of Jeffco and your other favorite charities without attending an event. Listen to your intuition. You know what is best for you. If you are struggling, that is normal. And if you need to speak to someone, contact your doctor or a therapist. If you need help finding a therapist are Eagles Haven clinical team is standing by to assist. You may reach them at 954-618-0350. And finally, safety is paramount. You must do what you think is best to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. We are communicating with Homeland Security and our local police departments. And they have been extremely responsive and supportive. They're aware of us and watching over our sights and our events. At our events, security and safety will be a priority and we will hire extra security as needed. We send our love and compassion to all of you and to all those who are suffering in Israel and pledge our loyal support today and forever. Thank you.