Jewish Family Service of Greater New Orleans reached new heights at its 2025 annual fundraiser, Take Flight with JFS, held March 20 at the New Orleans Lakefront Airport.
The invitation read: “Please wear your Golden Age of Flight best (‘40s-’60s or aviation-themed costumes”) and guest enthusiastically embraced the theme with women in stylish period attire and a few dressed as Rosie the Riveter, while men also got into the spirit, proudly donning their own or their fathers’ military uniforms. The dance floor swung to lively ‘40s tunes and photo booths captured the creative costumes.
The evening honored Ellen and Stanley Kessler for their philanthropic contributions to the Jewish community here and abroad. They were also the event’s presenting sponsor.
“We are deeply grateful for the overwhelming support of our community, patrons and sponsors, who made this event a soaring success,” said Roselle M. Ungar, CEO of Jewish Family Service of Greater New Orleans.
Funds raised will directly support JFS programs, including the Case Management Program, Affordable Counseling Program and Financial Resource Center, ensuring continued support for individuals and families facing challenges across Greater New Orleans, according to Ungar.
Event chair was Marilynn Wohlstadter.
Fun Fact: Jewish Family Service was initially created when the Jewish Children’s Home closed in 1948. JFS became a separate organization in 1976 and opened its doors to people of all faiths in 1982. Its Teen Life Counts (TLC) program has offered free youth suicide prevention education in schools across the Greater New Orleans area for more than 40 years.
