The spiritual care volunteers (SCV), part of the Jewish Community Chaplaincy program at Jewish Family Services (JFS), visit others at their most vulnerable moments, including during challenging health situations (including hospital visits), fulfilling the mitzvah of bikkur holim.
SCVs also provide a lifeline for many older adults living in long-term care facilities, and sometimes make some home visits. Currently, there are 14 SCVs.
Recently, JFS hosted an appreciation event to thank these dedicated volunteers in Reat’s Pavillion at the Jewish Community Campus.
Jewish Community Chaplain Rabbi Jonathan Rudnick, who oversees the spiritual care program, thanked each volunteer for their years of service. As an expression of gratitude, each SCV received a specially designed tote bag to hold materials they use on their visits. The bags were designed and made by JFS Chaplaincy Program Manager Moshit Snir with the words, “Being Jewish means being grateful.” SCVs shared reflections about what serving in this capacity means to them.
Paul and Lori Barnett are longtime SCVs. They find serving to be a fulfilling experience.
“Each time I go in, I ask how much good I am doing,” Paul Barnett said. "Then when I leave, I feel like I have done so much. There is personal fulfillment in doing this work… just knowing you have touched people in a positive way and brought a smile to their faces.”
“Sometimes you walk in and cheer them up, but the beauty of doing this with JFS is they may have other needs that we can connect them to JFS to help them on their path," Lori Barnett said.
JFS CEO Angela DeWilde made a few brief comments before the group heard from special guest Chaplain Becky Johnson, who is lead chaplain at the University of Kansas Health System. Johnson shared her insights and reflections on spiritual care as an indispensable dimension of care.
“One on one and one by one, these incredible individuals provide the connection of Jewish community and tradition (the heart and soul of spiritual care) to so many in need,” Rabbi Rudnick said.
Those interested in becoming a JFS volunteer can contact Jo Hickey, JFS director of volunteers and pantry partnerships, at , (913) 327-8257 or jfskc.org.
