Michael Klahr Jewish Family Services
Michael Klahr Jewish Family Services (KJFS) continues to proudly serve the Jewish Community and to reach out to those in need throughout Southern Maine. We have been providing all members of our community with critical health and human services, regardless of religion, ethnicity, cultural background, gender identification, ability, or age. Our programs are designed to meet compelling, immediate needs in ways that demonstrate the commitment to gemilut chasadim (acts of loving kindness) in the service of tikkun olam (repairing the world).
The life-changing and wide-ranging services are provided by professional staff, supported by our extended family of dedicated volunteers and generous donors.
KJFS is the first National Diaper Bank Network Participant in Maine.
As a member of the National Diaper Bank Network, we access diapers for 40% of the retail cost.
Unfortunately, diaper need is a significant issue in Southern Maine, with many families facing the heartbreaking challenge of deciding between buying diapers, food, or paying rent each month. We currently provide diapers to nearly 700 families on a bi-monthly basis (50 diapers per child). KJFS now also distributes wipes and menstrual hygiene products.
Volunteer
Volunteers allow the JCA to fulfill its mission to the Jewish community and the greater Portland community. Bringing light to those dark areas of our world, volunteering at the Jewish Community Alliance will impact your life as much as those you serve. If you are interested in being a part of this project, please contact us.
There are many ways to give back. Whatever your path to developing your influence on Portland’s Jewish community, we can guide you. By investing time, talent, treasure, or all three, through the JCA, your gift and involvement will do more good for more people — including you — than you may have thought possible.
Diaper Bank
The Diaper Bank distributes diapers that support children of all backgrounds. The JCA is the only diaper bank in Southern Maine that is affiliated with the National Diaper Bank Network. We distribute diapers and wipes directly to clients and also partner with more than a dozen agencies to reach even more families in need.
- Diaper Packaging, Labeling & Sorting: Prepare diapers for distribution to client families
- Storage Management: Move diapers to and from the storage unit
- Diaper Delivery: Deliver diapers to the homes of clients experiencing diaper need
Community Programs
The JCA offers diverse cultural, educational, and social opportunities for engagement with our community, through films, exhibits, music, book talks, adult-ed classes, children’s programming, informal clubs and discussion groups, and holiday celebrations and gatherings.
We welcome volunteers to share ideas, energy, and participation in JCA programs! If you have time and talent to share, or are interested in organizing or leading an activity, we want to hear from you! Potential volunteer roles include:
- Greet visitors at the front desk (particularly needed during evenings and weekends).
- Managing/supporting major events like the JCA’s Annual Meeting each September
- Teaching a class in an area of your expertise
Wednesday
Service Series
The Jewish Community Alliance of Southern Maine (JCA) invites volunteers to take part in our Wednesday Service Series - a recurring, hands-on opportunity that connects our community to meaningful service across Greater Portland. Each Wednesday, members of the JCA volunteer team serve at local nonprofit organizations while representing the JCA in the broader community.
This series is designed to make volunteering accessible, impactful, and consistent. By committing just a few hours on a Wednesday morning, volunteers help meet real community needs while serving as ambassadors of the JCA's mission and values. Whether you're a longtime volunteer or new to community service, the Wednesday Service Series offers a welcoming and purposeful way to get involved.
Volunteers work alongside staff at trusted partner organizations addressing critical needs such as access to basic necessities, healthcare support, and family services. Specific tasks vary by site and may include sorting and organizing donated goods, preparing supplies, or assisting with daily operations.
Community Partners include:
Maine Needs
Partners for World Health
Preble Street
The Locker Project
Ronald McDonald House
All volunteers are expected to engage respectfully, work collaboratively, and represent the JCA with professionalism and care. No prior experience is necessary; training and guidance are provided on-site.
