News and Events

Thoughts from the Heart by Susan Blum Connors

When I accepted the role of President of the Board of JFS two years ago, the majority of my family and friends were very supportive and proud of me.  There were, however, those few individuals whose first comments were, “Why?  Aren’t you busy enough?  Don’t you just want to sit back and enjoy your retirement? Do you have any idea how much time you are going to have to devote to this organization?”  My answer to those questions was and still is a resounding “Why not? I would rather spend my time volunteering than just sitting home watching TV. It’s a way for me to give back not only to JFS, but to the community at large.” I recently spoke at the volunteer recognition party in our new multi-purpose room.  I think the quotes I used about volunteering are worth repeating here.  These are my thoughts from the heart.

“Those who can do. Those who can do more, volunteer.”   Anonymous

“It’s easy to make a buck.  It’s a lot tougher to make a difference.” Tom Brokaw

 “Nobody can do everything, but everyone can do something.”  Author Unknown

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”  Churchill

“How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.”    Anne Frank

“Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.”  Desmond Tutu

“If you want to touch the past, touch a rock.  If you want to touch the present, touch a flower.  If you want to touch the future, touch a life.”  Author unknown

All of these quotes epitomize what JFS is all about, but my personal favorite is the last one. As we begin our second century of service to the community, we, as an agency, will continue to touch the lives of all who enter our doors.