Brittni’s commitment to fostering healthy relationships, boundaries, and consent, emphasizing the power of empathy, education, and understanding in creating a better, more compassionate world.

In the realm of community leadership and wellness advocacy, few individuals embody the spirit of dedication and empathy quite like Brittni Barcase, the Manager for Prevention, Wellness, and Education at Jewish Community Services (JCS). Her work revolves around teaching the crucial elements of healthy relationships, setting boundaries, and understanding consent, particularly in situations involving substances. Brittni’s role extends to various audiences, including students, community members, parents, and faculty, making her a pivotal figure in promoting well-being and understanding within her community.

Brittni’s journey into her current leadership role is a testament to her resilience and passion for helping others. Despite her background in dance, she recognized the limited opportunities in her hometown on Maryland’s Eastern Shore and moved back to Baltimore.

When asked about her entry point into her current role, Brittni’s response is deeply personal and reflective. Drawing from her own life challenges, she explained how she uses these experiences to shape her approach to the world. As a yoga teacher, she focused on healing workshops that delved into the inner workings of the mind, helping participants navigate their inner struggles with courage and understanding. In 2017, a friend working in prevention and wellness at JCS informed her of a position, and by 2018, she had become a JCS health educator. Brittni’s unique combination of lived experiences and natural empathy for those in crisis has allowed her to excel in her role, despite not having a formal educational background in the field.

As her journey as a leader has continued to evolve, Brittni has taken advantage of professional development opportunities, such as the Na’aleh’s Friedman Fellowship. Through the Fellowship, which has provided funding towards pursuing a certification in EFT for children and teens, tech addiction, digital health, and more. For Brittni, education goes beyond degrees; it involves understanding lived experiences to connect with others. In the field of prevention and wellness, storytelling is the key to connecting with teens, breaking down barriers, and eliminating stigma.

Brittni is also involved in Na’aleh’s KOLOT, a cohort for mid-career women. She has found a supportive community there, with other women who are finding the balance between career and motherhood.

Challenges are a natural part of leadership, and Brittni has faced her share. She acknowledges the need to slow down and prioritize self-care amidst her demanding workload. Finding the right pace is essential for her to feel comfortable and ensure the sustainability of her impactful work. Professionally, her challenge lies in anticipating the needs of the community and staying ahead of the curve to be a trendsetter, not just a reactive entity.

Reflecting on her journey, Brittni holds this Jennifer Pastilioff quote close: “At the end of my life, when I say one final “What have I done?”, let my answer be, I have done love.” This sentiment encapsulates Brittni’s commitment to fostering healthy relationships, boundaries, and consent, emphasizing the power of empathy, education, and understanding in creating a better, more compassionate world. In the heart of Baltimore, Brittni Barcase continues to be a guiding light, dedicated to empowering individuals and communities to embrace love, connection, and well-being. Her journey serves as an inspiration to all those who aspire to make a positive impact on the world around them.