A History of Caring

2000: Nakeefa Walsh

Hawthorne Cedar Knolls

The Jewish Board’s rich history is woven from countless lives. As we celebrate our 150th anniversary, we’re sharing stories of the people we might have served over the decades through our myriad predecessor organizations. We hope that glimpses of these imagined lives — which have been inspired by original historical research — will give you a vivid snapshot of what 150 years of caring for New Yorkers was like.

Foster Care Residential Services

13-year-old Caribbean émigré Nakeefa was angry, frustrated, and severely traumatized through a lifetime of family violence and abandonment. Multiple foster care placements failed as she struggled with anger issues. Placement in the Hawthorne Cedar Knolls residential program changed her whole trajectory. Intensive individual therapy, emotional skills training, and unwavering support from staff helped her stabilize. As her counselors addressed her mental health needs, they discovered her interests and tailored recreational and educational opportunities for her to blossom as she healed.

Join us in looking back at those we served and meet more of the New Yorkers we supported in the last 150 years.