Giving Back Together: The Roberts’ Journey
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April is National Volunteer Month, a time to celebrate the incredible individuals who dedicate their time to making a difference. Among them are Susan and Barry Roberts, a couple whose passion for giving back has touched countless lives through their work with Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JFCS).
How It All Began
Their journey with JFCS began unexpectedly at the Jewish Community Center, where they found themselves assisting with pushing carts and loading cars. It was there that they struck up a conversation with JFCS team members about the Adopt A Family program. After wrapping presents for the program one year, they quickly found themselves volunteering for multiple projects. Fast forward to today, and they’ve been dedicated volunteers for over five years.
“Whether it’s counseling, helping youth or delivering food, there are so many ways JFCS strengthens the community. There’s something at JFCS that speaks to everyone.”
The Inspiration Behind Volunteering
Volunteering wasn’t about seeking recognition for Susan and Barry. It was about making an impact. “We’re lucky enough to not need help, but some people do,” Susan explains. “There are times in life when you can give more physically and times when you can give more financially. Whatever you can do, it matters.”
Always ready to lend a hand wherever needed, their efforts have ranged from purchasing items for Purim and unloading school supplies during our Supply Drive to stocking shelves for the Just 3 Things pantry. They’ve also delivered food bags for holidays like Passover and contributed their time to special events like our annual Brighter Tomorrow Luncheon, which helps raise critical funds for JFCS programs.
“Whatever JFCS asks, we are happy to do,” says Barry.
A Shared Experience
One of the things that makes their volunteer experience special is that they do it together. “We just enjoy being together,” Susan shares. “Finding things to do as a couple is important and volunteering is something we can do side by side. It never feels like work or an effort.”
For them, volunteer days often turn into full outings. Whether delivering food bays or assisting at an event, they cherish the time spent together making a difference.
Moments That Make It All Worthwhile
For Susan and Barry, delivering food bags has been the most meaningful part of their volunteer work. The gratitude from those who receive them serves as a powerful reminder of why they give their time.
Barry says, “Seeing the impact it has on people, knowing we are helping, gives us a warm feeling when the day is done.”
One of their most memorable moments volunteering occurred when their then-six-year-old grandson joined them in filling bags for Purim. “He went around in circles at the table, racing us to get it done faster,” Susan recalls.
“We were impressed that he didn’t even stop to try to eat the candy!” Barry laughs.
Encouraging Others to Get Involved
For those considering volunteering with JFCS, Susan and Barry’s message is simple: just try it.
“It’s not a huge commitment,” Susan says. “Even if you can only volunteer a few times a year, it makes a difference.”
Barry agrees, adding, “I get more out of it than I put in. I feel better when I’m done than when I got there.”
When asked why the community should support JFCS, Susan and Barry highlight the organization’s broad impact. “There are a lot of charities, but JFCS is a good one,” Barry says. “Volunteering at the Brighter Tomorrow Luncheon, we’ve really seen what JFCS does and who they help. It’s been impactful.”
Susan appreciates the variety of services JFCS offers. “Whether it’s counseling, helping youth or delivering food, there are so many ways JFCS strengthens the community. If you believe in one program, support that. There’s something at JFCS that speaks to everyone.”
Above all, Susan and Barry credit the people behind the organization, particularly JFCS’ Volunteer Coordinator Lisa Blumstein. “Everyone has been very nice,” says Barry. “I can’t say enough about Lisa; I would do anything for her.”
Strengthen the Community With Us
Susan and Barry Roberts exemplify what it means to give back. Their dedication to JFCS has not only impacted those in need but has also enriched their own lives.
If their story inspires you, National Volunteer Month is the perfect time to get involved. Whether it’s delivering food bags, helping at events, donating or supporting JFCS in other ways, there’s always an opportunity to make a difference.