A Note of Thanks and Excitement from Our New CEO, Rebekah Shrestha

I’m writing with both gratitude and excitement as I begin my role as CEO of JFS. For 133 years, JFS has been a beacon of compassion and support for Jewish individuals and families, refugees and immigrants, and our broader community in the Puget Sound region, offering culturally sensitive services provided by professional staff, enhanced by dedicated volunteers, and supported by our base of generous community donors. Our mission is only possible because of you, and I want to thank you for the generosity and commitment you’ve shown to this community.

In my first month, my focus will be on listening and learning—from our staff, board, partners, and especially our supporters. I look forward to hearing your perspective on the impact we’ve made together and where we can grow.

The community welcome has already been extraordinary. I’ve had the joy of meeting many of you and joining our programs to see JFS’s impact firsthand. Each conversation reinforces what makes this organization so special: the deep relationships that form the foundation of our work. Building those relationships, with you and across our community, is what I’m most excited about in the months ahead.

While we face challenges, including government funding reductions that deeply affect those we serve, JFS has always been a trusted safety net for people in need. Together, we’ll continue to strengthen that role. Times of change invite us to renew our purpose, to innovate, and to lean even more deeply into our mission. I’m eager to build on this strong foundation. Over the coming months, I’ll share updates on what I’m learning and look forward to working with you to ensure JFS remains a source of care, dignity, and hope for all who turn to us.

Thank you again for being such an important part of this journey. I look forward to meeting you soon.