Spotlight On…

Read stories from our board members, volunteers, and employees that highlight JFS’ mission of Tikkun Olam (healing the world) and show the impact we make every day in our community. Check back each month for a new story.

Jody Laibstain

Volunteer and Transportation Coordinator

Jody Laibstain always respected the work done by JFS and was so excited to learn there was an opening in the Older Adult Services’ program seven years ago. As the Volunteer and Transportation Coordinator, Jody oversees the Meals on Wheels program, medical transportation, volunteer services and the holiday community outreach programs. Prior to joining JFS, Jody taught preschool at what is now Strelitz International Academy for ten years where she enjoyed being able to impact so many children during their formative years.

Jody continues to make a positive impact at JFS every day. Jody loves forming relationships with her clients and finding the best possible ways that she can help. She understands that it is difficult for people to lose their independence as they grow older. Jody assists her clients with scheduling their medical appointments; coordinating their transportation; and/or arranging for them to receive kosher meals delivered to their home once a week. Any service that I can provide to help someone be able to live independently longer is rewarding for me,” says Jody. She understands that there are so many seniors in our community that have no one to assist them and is grateful to be a part of an agency that helps so many people.


Jody proudly states,JFS has not altered any of the services we offer during this difficult time of COVID-19. Our volunteers continue to man our food pantries to distribute food to those in need of assistance and deliver meals to the homebound to make sure they have balanced meals to eat. Our community has answered the call for food and has kept food donations steadily coming in. I am so honored to be part of an organization and a community that helps to take care of those less fortunate.

Jody is a true blue Tar Heel having grown up in the small community of Weldon, North Carolina and attended the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. Her husband, David, is a Norfolk native and they are the proud parents of two wonderful daughters, Claire and Julia. She and her family are members of Congregation Beth El where Jody has served as president of the Beth El Sisterhood and a member of the board of directors.

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