Yopps resigned from JFS
John Yopps resigned in July from his position as president and CEO of Jewish Family Services.
The Board of Directors appointed Dan Fleischman as interim president and CEO. He will continue serving as vice president of housing at Jewish Family Services and president of JFS Housing, according to the two closely linked organizations. Jenny Steinman Heyden has been named interim chief operating officer and will also continue as vice president of development and communications. Joe Sykora remains chief financial officer.
The Board is beginning a search for a permanent president and CEO. Jewish Family Services reported that it remains fully committed to its mission of supporting individuals and families in the community through high-quality mental health services, compassionate social services and innovative housing solutions.
Interest-free loans available
In response to recent flooding across southeastern Wisconsin, the Milwaukee Jewish Free Loan Association is offering emergency support to affected community members.
The organization provides interest-free loans of up to $7,500, which can be used for home repairs, vehicle replacement, and other flood-related expenses, according to Anna Koenig, executive director.
Community members experiencing challenges — including basement flooding, power outages, or property damage — are encouraged to contact MJFLA at info@mjfla.org or 414-961-1500 (call or text). Loan applications and program details are available at mjfla.org/homeimprovement.
MJFLA also welcomes donations to help expand its capacity to provide financial relief during this time.
JFS leader appointed
The Medical College of Wisconsin Consortium on Public and Community Health has appointed Daniel Fleischman to the nine-member board that oversees the Advancing a Healthier Wisconsin Endowment’s investments and supports community and public health partnerships and projects. Fleischman is Jewish Family Services’ interim president and CEO, in addition to serving as vice president of housing and residential services
In his role at JFS, Fleischman oversees a portfolio of hundreds of units of affordable and supportive housing in the greater Milwaukee area. The housing includes services for people who have experienced or are at risk of homelessness and residents with disabilities and mental health challenges. The Advancing a Healthier Wisconsin Endowment is a statewide health philanthropy established by the Medical College of Wisconsin to steward a financial gift from Blue Cross & Blue Shield United of Wisconsin. Since 2004, Advancing a Healthier Wisconsin has invested over $350 million in more than 750 health research, workforce development, and community health initiatives statewide.
Chicago considers Jewish school
A parent-led initiative is underway to establish a Jewish high school within Chicago’s city limits, aiming to open by 2027, according to a Jewish Telegraphic Agency report.
Despite Chicago’s vibrant Jewish community — with numerous synagogues, kosher establishments, and one of the nation’s largest Jewish federations — the city lacks a non-Orthodox Jewish high school. Currently, students seeking a more secular Jewish secondary education must travel to suburban schools like Rochelle Zell Jewish High School or Ida Crown Jewish Academy.
The proposed school has secured a building under contract and is receiving support from the Jewish United Fund, though no direct funding has been allocated. Founders include local leaders in education, business, and community development. A circulated job description for a head of school highlights the vision for an academically rigorous institution rooted in Jewish values, welcoming both Jewish and non-Jewish students, according to JTA.
Interest is high among families at Chicago’s three non-Orthodox Jewish day schools, with a survey showing strong demand. The initiative also responds to rising concerns about antisemitism in public and private schools, including recent investigations and lawsuits. Supporters see the school as a way to ensure continuity in Jewish education and provide a safe, values-driven environment for students.
– Jewish Telegraphic Agency
Rabbi David Cohen to retire
Rabbi David Cohen, spiritual leader of Congregation Sinai of Fox Point, has announced he will retire by May 2026. The congregation intends to conduct a search for a new rabbi.
Red Cross asks for volunteers
The American Red Cross of Wisconsin is issuing an “urgent call” for Disaster Action Team volunteers to help families impacted by home fires, floods, and other emergencies — both locally and nationwide.
With extreme weather events on the rise, the Red Cross needs more trained responders who can deploy at a moment’s notice, said Laura McGuire, a spokesperson for the American Red Cross in Wisconsin. Volunteers receive free, flexible training and can choose roles that fit their schedule — from shelter operations to logistics, health services or disaster assessment.
For more information, visit RedCross.org.
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