JCS Announces New Board Chair and Board Leadership for 2026-2027

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MIAMI, Fla. June 24, 2026– Jewish Community Services of South Florida (JCS), one of Miami-Dade County’s longest-serving nonprofit social service agencies, today announced the appointment of Mitchell “Mitch” Morris as Chair of its Board of Directors, along with the appointment of its new Executive Committee, Board members, and At-Large representatives.

Morris succeeds Vanessa Ressler, who will continue serving the organization as Immediate Past Chair. He brings more than eight years of service on the JCS Board of Directors and a deep commitment to the agency’s mission of improving the quality of life and self-sufficiency of the Jewish and broader communities throughout South Florida in accordance with Jewish values.

Throughout his tenure with JCS, Morris has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to bringing the JCS mission to life. He has served in several leadership positions, including Vice Chair, Treasurer, Audit Committee Chair, and as an active member of the Executive Committee.

“Mitch’s leadership, vision, and unwavering dedication to our mission make him the ideal thought partner in leading the Board during these challenging times for Jewish communal agencies and the non-profit sector,” said Miriam Singer, President and CEO of JCS. “His commitment to service and his extensive experience in finance and risk management will strengthen and amplify our impact.”

Professionally, Morris serves as Vice President of Internal Audit for Restaurant Brands International, one of the world’s largest quick-service restaurant companies, whose brands include Burger King, Tim Hortons, Popeyes, and Firehouse Subs. In this role, he oversees global audit and risk management initiatives. He previously held positions at EY and KPMG and brings decades of expertise in accounting, finance, auditing, and corporate governance.

“I am honored to serve as Board Chair of an organization that has continued to make such a profound impact on our community for more than 100 years,” said Morris. “JCS embodies the values of compassion, dignity, and responsibility for others. I look forward to working alongside our dedicated board members, staff, volunteers, and community partners to ensure we continue providing high-quality critical services to those who need them most.”

JCS also announced its 2026-2027 Executive Committee:

Executive Committee

• Mitchell Morris, Board Chair
• Vanessa Ressler, Immediate Past Chair
• John Bussel, Vice Chair
• Michael Berman, Treasurer
• Yolanda Valencia, Secretary

At-Large Members

• Michele Burger
• Michael Levine
• Robert Newman

Ex-Officio Members

• Dr. Helen Sachs Chaset
• Jonathan Raiffe

In addition, JCS welcomed four new members to its Board of Directors:

• Ilene Kossman
• Bruce Libhaber
• Jill Swartz
• Dennis Kerbel

“Our volunteer leaders play a vital role in helping JCS fulfill its mission,” added Singer. “We are grateful for their service and look forward to the leadership and expertise they will bring as we continue strengthening programs that improve the lives of frail and vulnerable residents of all ages and backgrounds, based on Jewish values, across Miami-Dade County.”

For more than 106 years, JCS of South Florida has provided critical social services that help individuals and families achieve greater stability, independence, and well-being. Through more than 25 programs and services, JCS supports older adults, Holocaust Survivors, children, families, and individuals facing mental health, food security, and other life challenges throughout the community. JCS also operates the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for Miami-Dade and Monroe counties, providing 24/7 confidential support, crisis intervention, and connection to essential behavioral health resources for individuals experiencing emotional distress, mental health crises, or thoughts of suicide.

For more information about JCS and its programs, visit www.jcsfl.org.

About Jewish Community Services of South Florida

Since 1920, Jewish Community Services of South Florida, based on Jewish values, has remained true to its mission in providing a resilient safety-net of health and social services through a broad array of programs that promote, health, safety, and self-sufficiency. By collaborating with community partners, funders, hundreds of volunteers, sister organizations and local leaders, our team continuously strengthens its engagement and impact. Our professional team continues to provide healing and hope in serving the many layered needs of residents in our diverse and vibrant community. JCS is here for you.