About

Our Mission

The mission of Jewish Big Brothers Big Sisters of Los Angeles is to assist youth in achieving their full potential through innovative, impactful programs.

Like most non-profit organizations, our Board of Directors plays a critical role in defining vision and acting as the governing body for policy. Additionally, and most importantly, our Board is the pivotal driver behind our fundraising efforts. We are always seeking strategic thinkers to join our Board and continue expanding the impact we have on the Jewish and LA communities. The sense of fulfillment and accomplishment that comes from being a Board member can be seen on the faces of Board members as they beam with pride at our Scholarship event, knowing their individual efforts are paying off in helping serve over 1,500 children each year.

Our Current Board of Directors as of February 6, 2023. The Board President, Officers, and Board of Directors listed are voting members.

BOARD PRESIDENT

Sandy Sigal

CEO

Cari B. Uslan

OFFICERS

Shoshana Himmel, VP
Alexander Kozakov, VP
Jonathan C. Lurie, VP¹
Aaron Cohen, Treasurer
Lauren Kurzweil, Secretary

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Michael Abrams
Robert C. Aronoff
Joey Behrstock
Melissa Corleto
Lloyd “Eric” Cotsen
Jonathan David
Alyson Mischel Ein
Richard Feldstein
David A. Fenton
Eric Fingleson
Manny Flekman
Jo Fogel

Cara Heckenberg
Samantha Herman
Debbie Hiller
Scott R. Isdaner*¹
Mark Kuperstock*
Randy Levine
Steve Miller
Dennis Mogerman
Marc Mostman
Arnold S. Nelson¹
Matthew Nelson*

Heidi Praw
Danielle Pullman
Brad Rosenberg*¹
Dan Rosenson*¹
Stephen M. Saltzman*¹
Thomas R. Schiff
Michael H. Sendowski¹
John Shane¹
Lee I. Silver*¹
David Smith
Aron Solomon

Gary Stern
Zachary Streit
Karl M. Sussman*¹
David L. Swartz*¹
Scott Tiano
Jennifer Toplitzky
Rachel Wagman
Robert A. Waldorf*¹
Lewis M. Wallensky
Marshall J. Wax¹
Gary Weinhouse
Andy Wexler

* Past Board President
¹JBBBSLA & FCBW Board Member

EXECUTIVE

Cari B. Uslan, CFRE

Cari B. Uslan, CFRE

Chief Executive Officer
Tina Scozzaro

Tina Scozzaro

Director of Operations
Margaret Vance

Margaret Vance

Office Assistant

FINANCE

Anthony Binley

Anthony Binley

Controller

DEVELOPMENT

Janet Gilmore

Janet Gilmore

Vice President of Development & Donor Relations
Doris Horning

Doris Horning

Director of Grants Management
Brianne Bear

Brianne Bear

Director of Development & Donor Engagement
Joelle Montier

Joelle Montier

Annual Giving Manager
Aly Graiwer

Aly Graiwer

Development Associate
Amanda Rykoff

Amanda Rykoff

Donor Relations Manager

MENTORING

Megan Koehler, LCSW

Megan Koehler, LCSW

Vice President of Mentoring Services
Lynn M. Greenwald, MA, MFT

Lynn M. Greenwald, MA, MFT

Match Support Coordinator
Marissa Ring

Marissa Ring

Program Manager
Leslee Komaiko

Leslee Komaiko

Mentoring Specialist
Ilana Blumsohn

Ilana Blumsohn

Mentoring Specialist
Diana Krause-Leemon

Diana Krause-Leemon

Mentoring Specialist & Event Coordinator

TEEN TALK

Kendra Singer

Kendra Singer

Teen Talk Program Director
Leeron Tzalka

Leeron Tzalka

Teen Talk Community Relations Manager
Lauren Veillette

Lauren Veillette

Teen Talk App Training Coordinator

COLLEGE ACCESS + SUCCESS

Carina Garcia

Carina Garcia

Director of College Access + Success
Zoe Gerowitz

Zoe Gerowitz

College Access + Success Program Coordinator

OUTREACH

CAMP BOB WALDORF

Simon Hansen

Simon Hansen

Camp Director
Ben Farris

Ben Farris

Assistant Camp Director
Christopher Bennett

Christopher Bennett

Hospitality and Facilities Director
Alfred Aguilar

Alfred Aguilar

Executive Chef
Javier Cervantes

Javier Cervantes

Camp Program Director
Davina Valenzuela

Davina Valenzuela

Program Counselor
Sofia Varona

Sofia Varona

Registration and Outreach Manager
Guadalupe Muñoz Zaragoza

Guadalupe Muñoz Zaragoza

Registration and Outreach Associate
Amanda Gough

Amanda Gough

Office Assistant
Lynn Duston

Lynn Duston

Facilities Coordinator
Brian Sapp

Brian Sapp

Facilities Technician
Elvis Torres

Elvis Torres

Facilities Team Member

JBBBSLA Inclusion Statement
JBBBSLA actively acknowledges and embraces the richness and full spectrum of the community. It is our commitment to create an environment where all voices will be heard and treated with respect. These standards are expected of our leadership, staff, and volunteers as JBBBSLA builds its diverse constituency with full acceptance, irrespective of gender, gender identity, gender expression, socioeconomic status, level of Jewish observance, race, ethnicity, and/or sexual orientation.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT SPECIALIST (Youth Mentoring)

NO PHONE CALLS; NO EMPLOYMENT OR STAFFING AGENCIES OF ANY KIND

Status: Full-time (38-hour work week), Non-Exempt Professional, Union Employee, Classification 5A
Based in Los Angeles (combination of remote and office-based). 

We recognize that the diversity of the community we serve must be reflected in every aspect of our organization for JBBBSLA and Camp Bob Waldorf to have the greatest impact. Our commitment to justice, equity, diversity and inclusion is vital to our mission and is essential for our success.

Job Summary

The Community Engagement Specialist (CES) position has a key, front-facing and collaborative role in the Youth Mentoring department as part of the enrollment team. The CES has excellent interpersonal skills and insight. They handle inquiries for all children and volunteers and coordinate the pool of inquiries from initial outreach through interview assignment. This includes conducting individual pre-screenings and orientations as well as group Info Sessions, executing multiple volunteer screening elements, and documenting all processes and communication in our workflow/database. The CES provides professionally documented observations and accurate data regarding candidates’ suitability in this first stage of the assessment process and ensures a smooth transition of constituents to the next stage of enrollment.

The CES is also a creative thinker with strong initiative and a keen ability to leverage opportunities for multiple purposes. They engage regularly with other parts of our community. They participate in volunteer and youth recruitment initiatives, conducting external presentations and supporting the Youth Mentoring Committee. The CES helps to source and distribute in-kind donations for events/match outings and coordinate our non-mentoring volunteer needs. Additional roles may include supporting parent/guardian engagement initiatives and our e-Newsletter.

While meeting and getting to know stakeholders, the CES listens for those who want additional or deeper involvement in the agency. They take note of others with connections that might yield a recruitment presentation opportunity, and still others who might donate tickets or gift cards for match outings. This highly interactive role and engagement with the community is critical to the success of the department.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Enrollment
    • Respond to all inquiries for the YM department, engaging each individual or family, determining how they wish to become involved, and offering immediate next steps, providing high-level customer service at all times.
    • Provide individual orientations and/or group Info Sessions to prospective volunteers and families, ensuring their understanding of our program and services and documenting all steps in the Matchforce database.
    • Coordinate pre-screening for volunteers, including criminal background checks, fingerprints and other screening updates.
    • Coordinate reference check processes (oversee follow-through if outsourced and/or conduct reference checks as needed.
    • Document and share impressions of constituents with enrollment team as part of the broader assessment process.
    • Evaluate candidates and processes through the lens of youth protection, our top priority.
    • Utilize Matchforce dashboards/workflows to thoroughly monitor, advance and document participants’ progress keeping enrollment processing time to a minimum.
      • Proactively reach out to non-responders, as well as to those who inquire but defer enrollment to a later time.
      • Provide reminders in advance of appointments.
      • Conduct timely follow-up to ensure that process steps continue efficiently, setting a tone of forward momentum with all constituents.
      • Ensure that all communication is documented professionally, and that enrollment records provide an accurate history with all data current and accurate.
    • Collaborate closely with the rest of the enrollment team for a seamless transition to the interview stage.
    • Provide external referrals and resources to those whose needs we can’t meet, or who may not be a fit for our agency.
    • Support pool of RTBM (Ready-to-be-Matched) Bigs and Littles via RTBM Outreach at appropriate intervals.
    • Collaborate with Event Coordinator and VP of Mentoring regarding the potential for additional programming in support of RTBMs.
    • Support Mentor Training as needed.
    • Provide monthly enrollment data/reports as requested.
  • Community Engagement (Other)
    • Donated Activities
      • Leverage role and agency connections to identify opportunities for in-kind donations (e.g., sporting events, theatre tickets, etc.) in support of match outings or YM events.
      • Oversee distribution of donated activities, coordinating with Event Coordinator and other staff to provide support to those who are recommended or most in need.
    • Non-Mentoring Volunteers
      • Develop full knowledge of all agency programs/departments in order to redirect inquiries as needed, and to evaluate alignment with other agency opportunities.
      • Leverage new and existing relationships to identify individuals who might volunteer in other capacities within our department
      • Work with team to maintain current list of opportunities for non-mentoring volunteer support in alignment with departmental needs in (e.g., to help administer surveys, assist with events, etc.)
      • Support for parent/guardian engagement initiatives.
  • Volunteer and Child Recruitment: Develop and/or support opportunities for recruitment of children and volunteers through a range of strategies:
    • Conduct external presentations at recruitment or other community venues.
    • Facilitate internal Info Sessions (supporting recruitment and enrollment of Bigs and PGs).
    • Solicit and capitalize on opportunities for networking, collaboration and recruitment presentations: engage actively with stakeholders and cultivate community/partner relationships when opportunities present themselves.
    • Participate in the Youth Mentoring Committee’s Recruitment Subcommittee
    • Adhere to a system of outreach for reengaging lapsed enrollees and former Bigs.
    • Participate actively on the Youth Mentoring Committee (YMC)’s Recruitment Subcommittee
    • Generate geographic/demographic reports to help monitor our needs and select recruitment targets.
  • Other duties as assigned

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

We are seeking a candidates with a strong belief in the Mission and Vision of JBBBSLA, as well as the following:

  • Bachelor’s degree preferred but not required (fields related to social work, communications, marketing).
  • 1-2 years of experience working with children/youth in social services, or in a customer service environment with a working understanding of child development and family dynamics.
  • Comfort with public speaking (presenting, facilitating, training and/or recruiting) with adults.
  • Relationship management experience with youth and/or adult populations.
  • Highly collaborative workstyle with outstanding interpersonal and communication skills (oral/written).
  • Able to develop rapport with individuals and groups from diverse sectors with ability to recognize and cultivate the potential for connections/partnerships.
  • Working knowledge of the Los Angeles Jewish community.
  • Able to work effectively and sensitively with confidential information.
  • Able to work successfully both in a team and independently.
  • Strong initiative and solid networking skills with ability to recognize and cultivate the potential for connections/partnerships
  • Good judgment, able to make sound decisions and problem-solve effectively
  • Solid organizational skills, comfortable multi-tasking and able to shift priorities quickly when needed.
  • Strong commitment to quality and results with good attention to detail.
  • High-level computer skills: proficiency in Microsoft Office, internet-based and database applications (Salesforce experience a plus).
  • Reliable transportation, valid driver’s license, state-required auto insurance minimums and willingness to travel as necessitated by job responsibilities.
  • Able and willing to work flexible hours (evenings and/or weekends as needed).

Benefits Package

JBBBSLA offers a compensation package that includes a competitive salary range ($25-$28/hour) commensurate with experience. Generous paid vacation and sick leave plus three additional personal days, paid federal and all no work Jewish holidays (avg. 13-19 paid holidays per year.) Employer-paid benefits include 5% 403b retirement plan (after one year), paid vision and dental insurance, paid life insurance (after one year) and paid long-term disability insurance (after 60 days) paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Other benefits include a generous portion of employee’s medical premium paid, voluntary 403b retirement plan, voluntary Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Pet Insurance discounts, Legal and ID insurance discounts and opportunities for learning and professional development.

We close early on Fridays in observance of Shabbat creating a 38-hour work week. We enjoy a fun office environment (even on Zoom!) and a fantastic team of people dedicated to the meaningful work we do.

To Apply:

Send a resume AND cover letter to jobs@jbbbsla.org. Please enter Community Engagement Specialist in the SUBJECT line. No phone calls, please.

 


 

ACCOUNTING AND ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

NO PHONE CALLS; NO EMPLOYMENT OR STAFFING AGENCIES OF ANY KIND

Status: Full-time (38-hour work week)
Non-Exempt Professional, Union Employee
Agency location: Based in Los Angeles
Working location: Based in Los Angeles office M-Th/Fri remote

We recognize that the diversity of the community we serve must be reflected in every aspect of our organization for JBBBSLA and Camp Bob Waldorf to have the greatest impact. Our commitment to justice, equity, diversity and inclusion is vital to our mission and is essential for our success.

Accounting Summary

Assist CFO (Chief Financial Officer) approximately 19 hours per week in maintaining accurate and reliable financial information by performing a variety of accounting support functions, disperses payment, reconciles vendor accounts, and prepares reports of accounting transactions; and performs related duties as assigned. Opportunity for growth into Controller role for the right individual.

Essential Accounting Responsibilities:

  • Review all invoices for appropriate documentation and approval prior to uploading to the Accounts Payable (AP) system.
  • Correctly codes invoices and processes through to payment approval stage
  • Access various AP websites to download invoices for processing.
  • Process check requests in Accounting Software.
  • Audit and process credit card bills.
  • Prepares, processes, and verifies bank deposits, journal entries and accounting reports.
  • 1099 maintenance
  • Respond to all vendor inquiries.
  • Reconcile vendor statements, research, and correct discrepancies.
  • Process customer invoices and receipts in QuickBooks and follow up on overdue invoices.
  • Maintain files and documentation thoroughly and accurately.
  • Assist with other projects as needed.
  • Collect daily mail; sort mail, scan and/or deliver to appropriate department.
  • Scan, copy, deposit and process all checks received.
  • Collect invoices, scan, and distribute for payment approval.

Administrative Summary:

Provides ongoing administrative support to the CEO (Chief Executive Officer) approximately 19 hours per week. This job requires exceptional organizational skills to manage multiple responsibilities, strong verbal communication skills, and acute attention to detail.

Essential Administrative Responsibilities:

  • Create All-Hands Meeting agenda monthly and collect program updates from staff.
  • Create, manage and distribute bi-weekly Managers Meeting agenda.
  • Support for semi-monthly Board Meetings; create agenda, collect other materials, attend and take minutes, save all documents in PDF form for distribution to board members.
  • Confirm CEO meetings daily and help schedule follow up meetings.
  • Create email communications for board communication, committee and other group emails as assigned.
  • Schedule committee and board meetings as assigned.
  • Work with program staff to bring tasks to the attention of the CEO.
  • Assist in managing CEO daily schedule and calendar.
  • Assist CEO with filing and to-do list organization.
  • Maintain laptop/equipment inventory; order new laptops as assigned by the CEO.
  • Answer phones for agency main line daily.
  • Order office supplies, snacks, and other materials as needed
  • Update the staff contact list as new staff are hired or leave and send to DOO.
  • Maintain parking and door fob inventory as needed.
  • Organize and send out monthly e-birthday, anniversary and other cards to staff.
  • Ensure kitchen and break areas are maintained and supplied daily.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelors degree in Accounting or 4-8 years bookkeeping experience
  • Minimum of 4-8 years of accounting experience, preferably using QuickBooks online
  • Minimum of 1-2 years of experience as an administrative assistant or other support role.
  • Advanced skills in Microsoft Word and Excel required.
  • Knowledge of Beanworks AP system preferred but willing to train.
  • Strong attention to detail and follow-through.
  • Well-developed organizational and time management skills.
  • Positive attitude for interaction with donors, board members and volunteers.
  • Able to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to successfully manage multiple responsibilities.
  • Personal commitment to the mission and values of the organization.
  • Willingness to perform other duties as assigned.

This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.

Benefits Package:

JBBBSLA offers a compensation package that includes a competitive salary range commensurate with experience. Generous paid vacation and sick leave plus three additional personal days; Paid federal and all no work Jewish holidays (avg. 13-19 paid holidays per year.) Employer-paid benefits include 5% 403b retirement plan (after one year), paid vision and dental insurance with options to upgrade plan; paid life insurance of 2.5 times salary (after one year); paid long-term disability insurance (after 60 days); paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Other benefits include a generous portion of employee’s medical premium paid, voluntary 403b retirement plan, voluntary Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Pet Insurance discounts, Legal and ID insurance discounts and opportunities for learning and professional development.

We close early on Fridays in observance of Shabbat creating a 38-hour work week. We enjoy a fun office environment and a fantastic team of people dedicated to the meaningful work we do.

Pay: $30.00 – $35.00 per hour DOE

To apply, please send resume and cover letter to (jobs@jbbbsla.org), and please enter Accounting and Administrative Assistant in the SUBJECT line. No phone calls, please.

Financial Reports

Jewish Big Brothers Big Sisters of Los Angeles takes great pride in its financial stewardship as a 501(c)(3) public charity. Tax ID #95-1691009.

Click below to view our recent financial reports:

The Foundation For Camp Bob Waldorf

The Foundation for Camp Bob Waldorf was established in 1962 to provide ongoing operational funding for Camp Bob Waldorf. Thanks in part to The Foundation for Camp Bob Waldorf, more than 60,000 underserved children have attended our camp and its existence ensures that the camp will remain open for many generations to come.

The Foundation for Camp Bob Waldorf is a California 501(c)(3) organization (Tax ID 95-6127224) that operates as a restricted endowment fund. The Board approves monthly allocations to cover camp operating expenses, and also raises money to fund camp programs.

For more information on The Foundation for Camp Bob Waldorf, please contact Aly Graiwer at development@jbbbsla.org or (323) 456-1151.

“Camp Bob Waldorf changed my life when I was 8 and 9 years old and had no idea what direction my life would take. The Foundation ensures that the camp is here for kids like me forever!”

Sandy Sigal, JBBBSLA Board President, VP of the Foundation for Camp Bob Waldorf, and former camper

Publications

JBBBSLA is proud to share information about our programs and our people through an annual Impact Report and a quarterly “Snapshot.”