On May 18, 2023, Ruth & Norman Rales Jewish Family Services held a “Get Your Green On” event on campus to recognize Mental Health Awareness Month. The event served to raise awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and trauma. Attendees were encouraged to wear green and head to Dedication Plaza for themed snacks, fun photo ops, and prizes.

The plaza, which sits in the center of Federation and agency offices, was colorfully decorated with green balloons and bright green bagels; even the campus fountain waters were dyed green to match. The event welcomed campus employees, students, and community members, who showed their support of JFS’ mission and posed for selfies.

“I am proud that we had such a great turnout this year,” said President and CEO of Rales JFS Danielle Hartman. “It demonstrates that our community acknowledges the importance and supports our efforts to provide safe spaces for every individual to be seen, heard and respected. Together, we strive to normalize conversations and remove the stigma surrounding trauma and mental health.”

Federation Supports Several Mental Health Programs

The Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County supports several mental health and wellness initiatives in our community, including a new program at the Hadar High School for Girls. Hadar has incorporated extensive programming within the school to help address mental health issues. These efforts bring awareness and education to students on stress management, eating disorders, and emotional resilience, all with the goal of breaking stigmas.

Federation also supports a Crisis and Therapeutic Response Program at Crossroads. This organization provides intervention and support services to at-risk English-speaking teens in Israel, who are often negatively stereotyped as members of an affluent and integrated immigrant community.

“Federation is happy to be here, supporting Rales JFS, as they take the lead on mental health initiatives for our community,” said Federation Executive Vice President Marla Weiss Egers. “We are sensitive and cognizant of the challenges everyone has been facing at home and in the workplace. It is an honor to support all of our agencies, day schools and synagogues as well – mental health is a community priority.”

The Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County is proud to support all of its partner agencies, as they work to ensure the mental health needs of our community are addressed with care and sensitivity.