Jewish Vocational Service’s Annual Global Table Gala Showcases Client Successes and Emerging Community Needs
JVS celebrated their annual Global Table Gala on May 6, 2026.
“Everyone deserves a seat at the table.”
This was the theme of Jewish Vocational Service’s (JVS) annual Global Table gala on May 6, 2026, in Kansas City. This evening brought together partners, donors, staff and board members to learn about JVS’ work while also raising awareness of the rapidly evolving challenges newcomers face in the region.
JVS is a resettlement agency and MO-ORA partner that welcomes immigrants and refugees and supports their transition into the community. The mission is to encourage and empower clients to achieve social, cultural and economic integration.
Held at Fiorella’s Event Space, the gala raised more than $285,000 to support core programs. Throughout the evening, attendees heard from speakers about the purpose behind JVS and the stories that motivate their work.
Past clients Huda and Hadil, sisters who fled the Syrian Civil War in 2016, took the stage to share how JVS supported their family when they arrived as teenagers. Now in their twenties, they are pursuing educational and entrepreneurial opportunities, running small businesses in photography and event decor, while their mother opened a baking business and prepared the gala desserts.
The evening also featured a video in which clients shared stories about their favorite family and cultural dishes. The stories served as a reminder that food is not simply nourishment. It is also a connection to family, culture and community.
Alongside the successes, JVS staff felt it was crucial to discuss some of the challenges that clients are facing and why it is important to show up for clients now more than ever.
“For me, it was important to show that this work is continuing despite big national barriers that we have seen in the refugee space,” Katie Norman, JVS’ Communications Manager said. “We also wanted to highlight to our community how valuable this work is.”
The US Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) remains suspended due to an executive order in January 2025 and many families already residing in the United States are facing increased uncertainty surrounding public benefits. Parts of H.R. 1 affecting SNAP access have already begun to affect certain households, and changes to Medicaid are expected in October 2026.
In response to the fear, JVS is currently leaning into figuring out solutions for food access and is planning for Medicaid changes in October. They regularly partner with different food partners including Urban Produce Push and Kanbe’s Markets.
One visible reminder of that work was found on each table throughout the gala evening. Centerpieces featuring fresh fruits and vegetables were provided through Kanbe's Markets, and following the event, the produce was collected to be later distributed to clients.
Organizers of the gala reflected on the importance of this focus on food access, but also all the interconnected aspects that will impact client’s stability.
Sayeed Khaledi, JVS’ Marketing and Communications Coordinator, shares that when families do not receive SNAP or Medicaid benefits, other supports fall away too. Parents avoid taking their kids to the ER because of the cost. Schools will not provide lunches without SNAP paperwork, even when the household needs it. Bus fares are no longer discounted without that same documentation, adding another burden to daily life.
“It is like a bridge, and it is getting disconnected in every way,” Sayeed said.
These remarks highlight how challenges in one area often create ripple effects in others.
The gala's theme, "Everyone Deserves a Seat at the Table," reflected both a celebration of the accomplishments of refugee and immigrant families and a call to action. JVS remains committed to walking alongside clients as they pursue safety, stability and opportunity.