This past week, Nesivos of Lakewood hosted a ‘get to know us’ meeting which drew over 20 people representing various agencies around town.
Dr. Chuna Chaim Lebowitz, a Nesivos Board member, opened the session by stating that they have brought together the most talented and dedicated individuals who operate locally in the field of struggling teens and families. Dr Lebowitz explained the importance for there to be an interface to the various agencies which will create a streamlined and properly-managed game plan for each individual case.
Rabbi Binyamin Greenspoon, LCSW, one of the founders of Nesivos, elaborated on the assessment and case management side of Nesivos. “Everybody has to gain from this process,” said Rabbi Greenspoon. “Parents, rabbonim and mechanchim have a complete resource now where they can turn to for guidance. There are many resources available for a variety of issues, and most people do not know they exist. Nesivos not only knows of these resources, but has the ability to access them in a timely fashion.”
Rabbi Yoel Kramer, who will be in charge of girl placement for Nesivos, spoke about his experience with girl placement, and the specific struggles facing our community in that regard.
Eli Erenthal of Minyan Shelanu, and mentor program director for Nesivos spoke about the unique mentor program Nesivos offers its clients. “A talented and educated mentor has to be a focal point in every case,” said Mr Erenthal. “Nesivos mentors are provided with a clear goal oriented game plan, and are supervised by professionals throughout the process.”
Some of the agencies present included, Chemed, LCSC, Hatzoloh, Prefered Behavioral Health, Ezer Lnefesh, Agudas Yisroel NJ division.
Nesivos of Lakewood was created to provide a network of services for struggling teens and their families utilizing a combination of trained professionals, volunteer mentors, and community support services. “The goal of Nesivos is to provide a one-stop address for assessment, referral, and case management that will ensure that these teens and their families are directed in an efficient and streamlined manner to the necessary available help. Our ultimate goal is to provide them with an innovative and progress-oriented game plan that will create positive personal connections, acceptance, productive social interactions, and emotional support, which will foster a positive outcome.” To speak with a Nesivos representative or to schedule an assessment please call 7325347800. All calls are strictly confidential.
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