Stephen Goldman has been a steadfast ambassador and leader at The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services (JFCS) for over 14 years. Through his work in finance and his personal commitment to our mission, Stephen has helped to build solid partnerships for JFCS that continue to shape the agency’s growth and impact across our community.

Currently Senior Vice President at Bank of America, Stephen’s first role with JFCS was as a member of the Finance Committee, eventually serving as Finance Chair. In 2011, he joined the JFCS Board of Directors — the same year Colleen Rodriguez became CEO. She vividly recalls his initiative when he later stepped up to serve as Board President.

“Personally and professionally, Stephen has been immensely loyal and supportive, not just to me, but to the entire JFCS administrative team. He’s a positive voice in the community for the agency. That kind of advocacy is invaluable.”

— Colleen L. Rodriguez, Chief Executive Officer, JFCS

At this past June’s Board meeting, Stephen was honored for his transition out of the role of Immediate Past President, a position that reflected both his service and his continuing commitment to the agency. Colleen highlighted a pivotal moment in Stephen’s tenure: JFCS being selected for the Bank of America Neighborhood Builders Program in 2013, which yielded significant funding and leadership training for the agency. And since then, Bank of America has generously donated funds towards critical agency needs, including: food and operating support, emergency financial assistance, case management, disaster relief, and staffing and food expenses for our main Max Block and satellite pantries.

As Colleen acknowledged, “They’ve been a fantastic partner, and continue to be to this day.”

In honor of Stephen’s lasting influence, JFCS announced the creation of the Heart of the Agency Award, a new annual honor celebrating one staff member whose service reflects the values Stephen exemplifies. Thanks to a generous fund established by Stephen and his wife Jackie, each recipient will receive not only heartfelt recognition but also a $500 cash award. Honorees will be selected based on four core qualities:

  • A strong commitment to the JFCS mission
  • Compassion for those we serve
  • A willingness to go the extra mile for the agency and others
  • A genuine love for JFCS

“This award will carry Stephen’s legacy forward,” Colleen said. “It’s a meaningful way to recognize the heart and dedication he has brought to JFCS from the very beginning.”

To ensure JFCS can continue celebrating staff members who embody the compassion and commitment that define our mission, consider making a gift in support of this meaningful recognition.  Donate by visiting here and under “My donation is for”, choose “Stephen Goldman Heart of the Agency Award Fund”.