SARASOTA, Fla. — This week, Heidi Brown will begin her position as the newly selected CEO of the Jewish Family and Children’s Service of the Suncoast, Inc. (JFCS-Cares.org), the multi-county premier multi-function social service nonprofit.
Beginning tomorrow, Brown will lead a team of 86 full-time and 27 part-time staff members, 25 contractors and 473 volunteers at the Jewish Family and Children’s Service (JFCS). Formerly the CEO of Aviva, she has a thorough and dedicated history in the social and human services fields.
“I am extremely excited to continue the JFCS’ significant work through this role,” said Brown. “This is an incredible opportunity to have a greater impact on the entire community, and I look forward to working with all of JFCS’ supporters to influence as many people as possible through the much-needed services JFCS provides.”
In her new role, Brown will focus on growing collaborative community partnerships, increasing the range of services offered and working to raise the visibility of the organization. A former breast cancer survivor, she has a unique perspective and will work proactively on streamlining and increasing services offered to cancer survivors and their families as part of JFCS’ new Cancer Support and Wellness Program.
“We look forward to working with Heidi closely as she continues her life’s work, fulfilling her passion for building relationships, helping people and engaging in vital connections to improve the community,” said Stephen Seidensticker, chairman of the board of directors at JFCS. “Her expertise, broad-based community support and dedication will help to further propel JFCS into the future, enhancing the important work we do within the community.”
Over the past two decades, JFCS has grown from a $200,000 agency to an $8.5 million agency, with 16 office sites, a staff of 114 and a range of services, including over 25 programs that offer assistance to more than 15,000 individuals within the Sarasota and Manatee communities.
About Jewish Family and Children’s Service of the Suncoast
Celebrating 30 years of service to the community, Jewish Family and Children’s Service of the Suncoast, Inc. (JFCS) is the multi-county premier multi-function social service nonprofit. JFCS served over 15,000 individuals between 2014-15. The not-for-profit organization has provided more than 75,000 services, including case management, individual and group counseling, life skills education and assistance with basic life necessities, such as food and emergency financial assistance to prevent homelessness. For more information, visit JFCS-Cares.org or call 941-366-2224.