Noticing the rapid growth of the Jewish community in Sarasota during the 1970s and '80s, founder Sidney Berkowitz laid the foundation for what is now known as the Jewish Family & Children's Service of Sarasota - Manatee. The organization was intended to provide Jewish families in Sarasota and surrounding areas the support and counseling services they need to build a strong and prosperous community.
Services they provide include family education, substance abuse services, elder care, after school programs, food pantry, adolescent and children's services and more.
The main campus is located on Fruitville Road, with satellite offices throughout Sarasota, Bradenton, Venice and Northport.