Strengthening Jewish Human Services Through Policy Advocacy

In an inspiring display of collective action, the Network of Jewish Human Service Agencies (The Network) recently gathered in Washington, DC for its largest-ever Advocacy Fly-In for its member agencies. This year’s event brought together 55 participants from 28 member agencies across 17 states, resulting in over 100 meetings with members of Congress, Senate leadership, and the Department of Health and Human Services’ Faith Office.

This was the biggest delegation The Network has ever brought to Capitol Hill, reflecting the growing commitment of its member agencies to advocacy at the federal level. With ongoing uncertainties in Washington, DC, this year’s gathering underscored the importance of strong policy engagement to protect and expand Jewish human services nationwide.

Advocating for Change on Capitol Hill

The event provided both seasoned advocates and first-time participants with the opportunity to speak directly with lawmakers about key policy issues affecting their communities.

“The energy, expertise, and engagement of our member agencies were undeniable,” said Jonathan Schrag, Director of Public Policy & Advocacy at The Network. “During one of the most critical moments for our sector, our agencies showed up in force, advocating for the needs of their communities with passion and precision.”

For many participants, the Fly-In was a transformative experience. David Finke, CEO of JFCS Louisville, shared how the event changed his perspective on federal advocacy:

“The trip was exhilarating. I flew to DC with much trepidation, having never engaged in federal advocacy. Learning the ropes alongside my colleagues left me at ease.”

One of the highlights for Finke was his meeting with Congressman Morgan McGarvey, who personally thanked him for JFCS Louisville’s work—and even featured their meeting in his congressional newsletter.

Bringing Local Impact to the National Stage

The Network’s member agencies serve as critical voices for the communities they represent. By providing unique, on-the-ground perspectives, these agencies help shape policies that directly impact millions of people.

“As a network of human service agencies, we have an important perspective about the impact of changes in funding and policies on the 2 million people we serve each year,” said Todd Schenk, CEO of JSSA, Chair of The Network’s Advocacy Committee and member of The Network Board. “With so many newly elected officials and new leadership in the Administration, it was critical to share our viewpoint with these leaders.”

In addition to Congressional meetings, participants attended a high-level policy briefing with HIAS and joined an advocacy coalition panel featuring:

• MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger
• Lutheran Services of America
• National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW)

Looking Ahead: Continuing the Advocacy Effort

As federal policies continue to evolve, The Network remains committed to empowering member agencies, fostering engagement, and driving policy change.

“One of the most important benefits of Network membership is the collective experience, wisdom, and power of our fellow Network members,” said Karen Mozenter, CEO of JFS Columbus. “This trip was a perfect example of how we can accomplish so much more together than we could as individual agencies.”

The 2025 DC Fly-In builds on The Network’s expanding policy agenda, which prioritizes:
✔ Workforce development
✔ Mental health services
✔ Refugee resettlement policy
✔ Food insecurity
✔ And more

By advocating for these crucial issues, The Network ensures that Jewish human service organizations can continue to provide critical support to their communities for years to come.