TC Jewfolk’s JLink has a track record of growing to support the networking needs of emerging and established Jewish professionals in the Twin Cities, and TC Jewfolk is excited to announce its latest initiative, a partnership with the Jewish Family and Children’s Service (JFCS) of Minneapolis.
Together, JLink and JFCS will make sure Jewish professionals aren’t going it alone.
The development pairs JLink’s experience in creating opportunities for connecting with the resources of JFCS Career Services.
“This partnership felt like a natural fit because JFCS Career Services and TC Jewfolk’s JLink share the same core values—fostering meaningful connections, creating shared opportunities, and supporting career growth within the community,” said Anna Ferdelman, career development programs manager at JFCS.
In addition to monthly in-person gatherings, the JLink page on Facebook has offered the means to network in a welcoming environment.
This will continue – with enhancements.
“By joining forces, we’re able to offer even more value to participants,” Ferdelman said. “JFCS Employment Counselors bring expertise in job search strategies, labor market trends, networking techniques, resume guidance, and more—all of which complement the community-building mission of JLink. It’s also a great opportunity for JFCS to spread awareness about our wide range of career programs. We’re excited about the potential of this collaboration to provide impactful, supportive, and enriching experiences for everyone who attends.”
The monthly JLink coffee events will now be themed with topics relevant to job seekers, such as July’s focus on the use of AI in a job search.
JLink is open to Jewish professionals regardless of field or length of career, and JFCS has experience working with individuals in various stages of their employment journey.
“Job seekers, employers, and professionals looking to network are all welcome!” Ferdelman said. “These events are open to anyone in the community who wants to connect and grow professionally. Whether someone has been recently laid off, unemployed for an extended period, underemployed, or looking to break into or upskill in the IT field, we’re here to help.”
Moral support is important, but also critical are the concrete advantages JFCS offers.
“If eligible, individuals are matched with an employment counselor who provides personalized support—from resume updates and career exploration to job search strategies and identifying relevant training opportunities. Our goal is to guide clients through the job search process and help them return to the workforce with confidence.”
Hunting for a new job, hiring the right employee, or developing fresh business contacts can feel daunting even for the experienced or extroverted. It’s common to feel a range of emotions about a job search, and Ferdelman has advice for those struggling to take the first steps.
Come to a JLink event.
“You have to start somewhere — and this intimate, supportive space is the perfect place.
to do that,” she said. “I completely understand that walking into a new environment can be nerve-racking, but ask yourself: what’s the alternative? I always remind my clients that small progress is still progress. Every step you take builds confidence and creates momentum.”
Each JLink participant is a contributing member of the community and brings unique perspectives and experience. In turn, those looking to develop their career or business will gain access to the morale boost and practical benefits of connecting.
As a career development professional on the front lines, Ferdelman knows first-hand what it takes to flourish in today’s job market:
“You have to lean on others.”
“You need community, you need connection, and you need to talk to people.” Ferdelman continues. That’s where the real movement happens — not behind a screen endlessly submitting applications, but through conversations, support, and shared experiences. JLink offers that kind of space, and it can truly make all the difference.”
