(Courtesy of Project SARAH) In the heart of New Jersey lies a beacon of hope and support for those impacted by domestic violence and sexual abuse: Project SARAH-Stop Abusive Relations At Home, established in 1995, is a program of Jewish Family Service that has been tirelessly serving the state’s Jewish communities, offering culturally specific services with a mission rooted in compassion and empowerment.
At the core of Project SARAH’s ethos is the belief that everyone deserves access to healing and support, regardless of their race, gender, religion or background. This inclusive approach is reflected in the organization’s logo, which depicts a heart divided into three sections, symbolizing its multifaceted mission.
The first portion of the heart represents trauma-informed clinical care, providing survivors with the tools and resources they need to heal and move forward safely. Project SARAH offers a range of comprehensive services for those navigating the complexities of abuse and trauma, including individual and group therapy, art therapy for children, psychiatric evaluations, case management and medication monitoring. Additionally, their community support line offers quick assistance and guidance when it’s needed most.
The second section of the heart embodies Project SARAH’s commitment to community outreach, education and training. By raising awareness about relationship safety and signs of abuse, the organization empowers individuals to prevent, recognize and address abuse within their own communities. From school-based programs, like the Magen Yeladim International Safety Kid Program, to specialized training for parents, educators, camp directors and community leaders, Project SARAH equips people in a variety of settings with the knowledge and skills they need to support survivors and prevent future instances of abuse.
The third section of the heart represents Project SARAH’s dedication to providing survivors with access to culturally specific legal services. Recognizing the unique needs of the Jewish community, the organization helps with navigating both civil court proceedings and beit din. Whether survivors require legal consultation, referrals or representation for matters such as restraining orders, divorce or custody issues, Project SARAH ensures they have the support they need to seek justice and reclaim their autonomy.
As new initiatives are on the horizon, Ozer Herzog, executive director of JFS, proudly announces two significant additions to Project SARAH’s leadership team. Dr. Rachel Dale, a seasoned expert in trauma-informed care, has assumed the role of clinical director, bringing with her a wealth of leadership experience in mental health settings and a deep commitment to supporting survivors on their journey to healing. With her expertise in clinical psychology and a compassionate approach to therapy, Dr. Dale is poised to further enhance the quality and effectiveness of Project SARAH’s clinical services.
Additionally, Carol Sufian has joined the Project SARAH team as managing director, bringing a wealth of managerial experience and a passion for advocacy. With her strong background in nonprofit management and a dedication to social justice, Sufian is well-equipped to lead the organization forward in its mission to empower survivors and combat domestic violence and sexual abuse in the community. The heart of Project SARAH’s mission beats stronger than ever as they embark on this new chapter with Dr. Rachel Dale and Carol Sufian at the helm.
As Project SARAH continues to work toward breaking the cycle of abuse and fostering community compassion and resilience, the future holds endless possibilities for healing, growth, and positive change. They are poised to expand their reach and impact even further, ensuring that no survivor ever walks alone.
