401.331.1244 info@jcsri.org

Our Leadership

Jewish Collaborative Services employs a team of highly trained and credentialed professionals. Our staff includes licensed marriage and family therapists, master’s-level and licensed independent social workers, licensed nurses, certified nursing assistants, certified medication technicians and assisted living administrators. Beyond their impressive qualifications, they bring a deep commitment and compassion to their work, caring for individuals and their families with dignity and respect.
 

Our leadership team and board of directors consist of dedicated maters-level professionals with many years of experience. They guide the agency in its mission, easing the burden of those facing hardship or navigating transitions in housing, health, family or social situations.

JCS Board of Directors

Chair
Mindy Stone

Vice Chair
Kayla Rosen

Treasurer
Christine Cannata

Secretary
Minna Ellison

Presidential Appointee
Marisa Garber

Members
Matthew Blank
Elaine Farber Budish
Doug Emanuel
Robin Engle
Felice Farber
Marcia Werber Feldman
James Galkin
Marilyn Katz
Myrna Levine
Richard Licht
Hal Matzkin
Jeffrey Rogg
Bonnie Ryvicker
Niecie Weiner

Staff Leaders

Pamela Morris, MSW

Pamela Morris, MSW

President and CEO

Pam is responsible for overseeing all business, finance, and personnel operations at Jewish Collaborative Services. In this role, she provides strategic leadership for the agency and its professional staff, ensuring the delivery of the highest quality services to the community, clients, families, and all stakeholders. She also directs the agency’s long-term planning, guiding initiatives for organizational growth, program development, and future sustainability. Pam joined JCS in 2022, bringing more than 20 years of senior leadership experience in the senior living sector across New York, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. Throughout her career, she has held increasingly high-level roles, developing a deep expertise in operations, program management, regulatory compliance, and strategic planning. Her leadership is characterized by a commitment to excellence, collaboration, and innovation, always focused on enhancing services and outcomes for the communities she serves. 

She holds a Master of Social Work degree from Rhode Island College and a Postgraduate Certificate in Long Term Care Administration from Iona College in New York. Known for her thoughtful approach, dedication to staff development, and passion for improving quality of life for older adults, Pam continues to advance JCS’s mission of service, community support, and wellness across all programs.

Renee St. John, CPA

Renee St. John, CPA

Chief Financial Officer

Renee is responsible for the overall financial strategy and direction of the organization, overseeing business, finance, and personnel operations. She guides staff, the finance committee, and the board of directors on all financial matters, including budgeting, external audits, banking, investments, tax reporting, and human resources. Renee ensures that financial operations align with organizational goals and adhere to best practices and regulatory standards. Renee joined JCS in 2019, bringing over 20 years of experience as a CPA. She has extensive expertise in the nonprofit sector, with a strong track record of developing sound accounting policies, implementing reporting procedures, and maintaining compliance with GAAP standards. Her strategic guidance has strengthened financial management, enhanced transparency, and supported the agency’s continued growth and mission impact. 

She received her Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Bryant University. Beyond her professional work, Renee has served on multiple boards and committees, and she currently serves on the Board of Directors and Finance Committee for the Rhode Island Community Foodbank. Renee plays a pivotal role in ensuring the financial health and sustainability of JCS.

Patricia Burns Harwood, LICSW

Patricia Burns Harwood, LICSW

Chief of Programs

Patty oversees the coordination, integration, and delivery of all programs and services at JCS. She works to promote collaborative relationships across program areas and ensures that services consistently meet or exceed the expectations of clients, family members, funders, partners, and other stakeholders. With credentials in Rhode Island and Massachusetts, Patty has been helping clients as a licensed independent clinical social worker for more than 25 years, bringing deep expertise in supporting older adults and individuals with diverse needs. Patty received her BA in Psychology from Boston College and earned a Master of Social Work from Rhode Island College School of Social Work, with a concentration in health, aging, and disability. She began her career with Jewish Family Service of Rhode Island in 1999, taking on increasing responsibilities and ultimately becoming Director of Older Adult Resources before assuming her current role as Chief of Programs at JCS. 

Throughout her tenure, Patty has demonstrated exceptional leadership in program development, service delivery, and team management. She is dedicated to ensuring high-quality outcomes across all services. Known for her professionalism, skill, knowledge, and good humor, Patty combines a strategic mindset with a compassionate approach, making her a trusted leader and advocate for both clients and staff alike.

Casey Gilfillan Amaral, MBA

Casey Gilfillan Amaral, MBA

Senior Director of Human Resources

Casey is a seasoned HR professional known for her strategic leadership and innovative approach to human resources. With over 20 years of experience, including a decade in the nonprofit sector, she has a proven track record of driving organizational success through people-centric strategies and transformative HR solutions. She develops and implements initiatives that advance organizational goals, enhance employee engagement, and foster positive workplace culture across all levels of the organization. Casey earned her Master’s in HR Management and an MBA from the University of Phoenix while advancing her career. She has built a strong foundation in human resources management, business operations, and organizational behavior. Her expertise spans diverse industries, where she has excelled in talent management, employee engagement, organizational development, and succession planning. 

Throughout her career, Casey has been recognized for her hands-on approach and dedication to cultivating environments where employees thrive. She is passionate about mentoring teams, promoting diversity and inclusion, and creating systems that support both staff and organizational growth. Guided by empathy, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence, Casey continues to strengthen workplace culture and contribute to lasting organizational impact.

Jessica Murphy Hoard, MS

Jessica Murphy Hoard, MS

Director of External Relations

Jessica leads the agency’s external relations strategy, overseeing development, marketing, communications, and volunteer engagement to strengthen JCS’s visibility and community impact. She develops and implements strategies that advance the agency’s mission, enhance brand recognition, and engage target audiences, ensuring cohesive messaging across all programs and communities. Jessica began her career with Jewish Family Service of RI in 2016 as a Program Coordinator. Her organizational skills, strategic vision, and creative approach to branding played a key role in establishing the Marketing and Communications Department during the formation of Jewish Collaborative Services in 2018. Her role has now expanded to include development and volunteer oversight, supporting fundraising, donor and volunteer relations, and community partnerships. 

She earned a Bachelor’s degree from Rhode Island College and a Master’s degree from Merrimack College. Guided by her passion for nonprofit initiatives and community wellness, Jessica takes pride in building connections, advancing JCS’s impact, and supporting programs that serve the community.

Helayne Goldstein-Ramirez

Helayne Goldstein-Ramirez

Executive Director of Tamarisk Senior Living

Helayne brings over 20 years of leadership experience in senior living and community services, with a strong dedication to enhancing the quality of life for older adults through compassionate care and innovative programming. She oversees operations, program development, and staff leadership, ensuring that residents receive the highest standard of services while fostering a welcoming, supportive community environment. Helayne holds multiple professional credentials, including licensure as a Nursing Home Administrator, Assisted Living Residence Administrator, and Independent Clinical Social Worker. She is also a Nationally Certified Dementia Practitioner, bringing specialized expertise in memory care, aging services, and person-centered care practices. Her background enables her to guide programs that meet diverse needs while maintaining regulatory compliance and promoting best practices in senior care. 

Throughout her career, Helayne has been recognized for her ability to combine strategic vision with hands-on leadership, balancing operational efficiency with a deep understanding of resident needs. She is passionate about mentoring staff and enhancing overall community wellness. Helayne’s leadership continues to strengthen the mission of providing exceptional care and meaningful experiences for older adults, ensuring both residents and their families feel supported and valued.

Rachael Adams

Rachael Adams

Director of Shalom Housing Operations

Rachael Adams serves as the Director of Housing Operations for Shalom Apartments and Shalom II, located on JCS’s Warwick campus. In this role, she is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of these HUD-subsidized communities, ensuring that residents receive high-quality services and support. Her responsibilities include managing staff, coordinating maintenance and resident services, and ensuring compliance with federal housing regulations. Rachael is dedicated to fostering a supportive community for older adults, and promoting their independence and well-being.

Prior to joining JCS, Rachael gained extensive experience in housing operations and property management, equipping her with the skills necessary to lead and innovate in the affordable housing sector. Her commitment to service excellence and community engagement is evident in her work, as she strives to create an environment where residents feel supported. Rachael is passionate about advocating for affordable housing solutions and is involved in local initiatives aimed at improving housing accessibility for seniors and individuals with disabilities.