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Perfect Fit

Krakoff channels pastoral care
passion into Jewish Hospice job.

The care you need to get you back to your life.

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NINA•MCLEMORE

Rabbi Joseph Krakoff meets with two of his colleagues from Jewish Hospice
and Chaplaincy Network: Bonnie Laker, left, community liaison, and Cheryl
Weiss, director of education.

Barbara Lewis

Contributing Writer

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12

October 9 • 2014

abbi Joseph Krakoff is mov-
ing on to the next chapter of
his professional life.
The rabbi, who served Congregation
Shaarey Zedek for 16 years until the
congregation's board ended his tenure
on July 31, is now handling com-
munity outreach and education for
the Jewish Hospice and Chaplaincy
Network in West Bloomfield.
He is providing pastoral care to the
organization's clients, but his primary
focus will be working in the communi-
ty and with other healthcare providers
to explain the organization's mission
and services.
In addition to support for people
nearing the end of life, Jewish Hospice
and Chaplaincy Network (JHCN) pro-
vides support for those with debilitat-
ing chronic illnesses, people with dis-
abilities and the frail elderly, including
those with Alzheimer's disease.
The organization, started 13 years
ago by Rabbi E.B. "Bunny" Freedman,
does not provide clinical care. Instead,
it works in partnership with other area
hospices and hospitals, supplementing
their medical and nursing services.
The organization's slogan is "We
make every hospice a Jewish hospice:'
JHCN has fewer than two dozen
staff members, including 10 rab-

bis. Many work part time, including
Krakoff, who started his new position
Sept. 1. The organization cares for
approximately 150 clients and families
every day.
None of its services are covered by
health insurance, and the organization
does not charge clients or families,
relying instead on donations from the
community.

"Blessing And Honor"
As a congregational rabbi, Krakoff was
familiar with the Jewish Hospice and
Chaplaincy Network.
"I had the opportunity to be with
many people in their final days:' he
said. "It's something I've always gravi-
tated toward. It felt so important to be
there for people at the end of life:'
Krakoff says he considers it a bless-
ing and an honor to spend time with
people at the end of life and to help
their loved ones say goodbye.
He also serves on the board of
Reverence Home Health & Hospice, a
service of St. John Providence Health
System. Freedman recommended him
for the position.
At JHCN, Krakoff will be talking
to community organizations, such as
congregations, women's groups and
fraternal groups, about hospice care,
comfort care and support services.

Perfect Fit on page 14

