Response 2013 Annual Meeting

Stein’s Message Robin Stein, Director of Response, used a folder from the 1970s Drug Response Center, a forerunner of Response, to contrast it to the current center – “a safe, non-judgmental space for young adults.”

Outgoing Response Advisory Council ChairpersonLauren Kohlenbrener spoke with insight and emotion about her time as chairperson of the Response Advisory Council, where she will continue her efforts on Response’s behalf.

A farewell giftLauren Kohlenbrener, outgoing Chair of the Response Advisory Council, received a gift to signify the council’s appreciation of her service.

Marking a transitionRobin Stein, director of Response (left), new Response Advisory Council Chairperson Jill Bernstein, and Lauren Kohlenbrener (right) admire Lauren’s gift.

Award winnersRebecca Katz, Director of Teen Programs for Or Tzedek, and winner of the Harry Hoffman Award, addresses the Response 2013 Annual Meeting as Sarah Casper, Response Outreach Coordinator, looks on.

TeammatesSarah Casper, Outreach Coordinator, listened intently to Rebecca Katz, who accepted the Harry Hoffman award on behalf of her work as Director of Teen Programs for Or Tzedek.

Meet the teens

Outreach Prevention Specialists Rachel Marro (left) and Carly Friedman (right) and Response program participants Penina Lis (left) and Frannie Millerintroduced themselves to the annual meeting attendees.

Teen FeedbackResponse teens explained their Response leadership activities to those present at the annual meeting. That’s Janice Kaufman, JVS Chicago Director of Development, listening intently in the foreground and Carly Friedman, Response Outreach Prevention Specialist, (center) doing the same.

Joining the funPlayers of the Response teens’ game included (left to right) Rebecca Katz, Margaret Vimont, Howard Sitron, and Deb Sitron.

It’s a hit!Rachel Marro (left) and teens Penina Lis and Frannie Miller seemed delighted with the enthusiasm that annual meeting attendees showed for their game. designed as a “getting to know you” or ice-breaker activity.

Back to businessThe 2013 annual meeting wasn’t all games – Shari Zenner (Nominating Chair) addressed the meeting and introduced several honorees and speakers.

Intense dedicationAdvisory Council members Hollis Russinof and Debbie Dresner showed their deep level of commitment to Response when they addressed the meeting and spoke of their involvement in the Parent and Family Connection program for Jewish family members of GLBTQ individuals.

Award winnerMeryl Cohen (left) was honored for 15 years of service on the Response Advisory Council. Robin Stein (center) and Shari Zenner were all smiles.