FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Katherine Moore
(323) 761-8888 x8904

JVS ANNOUNCES EXPANSION OF BOARD
Jamie Rudman to Join Board of Non-Profit

With the nation's unemployment rate at almost six percent, more and more people are struggling to find work in an economy where the lack of available jobs is the worst in almost 20 years. In Los Angeles alone, more than 300,000 people are out of work. To address the evolving needs of this growing population, JVS has added a diverse group of people to its board of directors, including Jamie Rudman, a labor and employment attorney.

Founded in 1931, JVS, a non-profit, non-sectarian organization, offers a wide range of vocational and human resource services to individuals and businesses throughout Los Angeles. In the last year alone, the number of people turning to JVS for help jumped almost 50%. Everyone from middle managers to blue-collar workers has been affected by the economic downturn. In addition, JVS offers mentoring and career programs for women, welfare recipients, students, refugees and immigrants. JVS' Certified Nurse Assistant program trains people for careers in the nursing industry, and includes on-the-job training, a guaranteed salary and ESL classes. Annually, JVS serves more than 13,000 people in greater Los Angeles.

Rudman first became involved with JVS through the Young Associates Board, a varied group of young professionals who volunteer their time and expertise to the agency. As an associate with the firm of Knee, Ross and Silverman LLP, she advises employers on all aspects of state and federal labor laws. She has participated in cases before the California and Federal courts, the National Labor Relations Board, the Department of Fair Employment and Housing, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and more.

"As an attorney who represents management, I know firsthand how important work is to people and how devastating the loss of employment can be," said Rudman. "My firm handles a variety of clients from a small non-profit to multi-national corporations. Whether the employees are factory workers or high level executives, I constantly refer clients to JVS for services. JVS fills a critical gap in my practice and provides a valuable resource for my clients."

A resident of Los Angeles, Rudman joins a prestigious group of business leaders supporting JVS including Richard Foos, Founder of Rhino Records; Alan Berlin of the Jules Berlin Agency; and James Maslon, former vice-president of Rykoff Sexton.

On May 14th, JVS will present the 6th Annual Strictly Business Luncheon, focusing on the agency's direct services to local businesses. Arden Realty Chairman and CEO Richard S. Ziman and his wife Daphna, a leading child advocate, will be the featured speakers, and Wells Fargo will be honored as Corporate Citizen of the Year.

For more information about JVS or the Strictly Business Luncheon, visit www.jvsla.org.
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