Jewish Family Service of Los Angeles’ (JFS) Board of Directors has appointed Eli Veitzer, CEO of Prototypes, as the organization’s incoming president and CEO.

Veitzer’s appointment is the result of a national search that started in January. The board worked closely on the selection with JFS president and CEO Paul S. Castro, who plans to retire at the end of the year.

“We are extremely confident that Eli has the leadership skills, professional background and commitment to our mission to lead JFS into the future as we continue to provide our wide array of social services and be a vital safety net for the greater Los Angeles community,” said Shana Passman, chair of the JFS Board of Directors.

Veitzer returns to JFS after serving nearly three years as the CEO of Prototypes, a social service agency that provides substance abuse prevention and treatment programs throughout Southern California.

“It is a tremendous honor to follow Paul Castro in leading Jewish Family Service,” Veitzer said. “He has cemented JFS as a vital, vibrant and caring organization, and I am excited to build on that foundation. I look forward to working with all of the very talented and dedicated staff, board, volunteers and supporters of JFS to extend our reach and deepen our impact as we face the many challenges ahead for Los Angeles’ most vulnerable and needy individuals and families.”

Veitzer previously served as JFS’ director of administration and director of strategic initiatives and business development. He will return to JFS on Sept. 5, and will work closely with Castro to ensure a smooth transition.

JFS counsels families, supports the elderly, houses the homeless, feeds the hungry, assists the disabled and empowers survivors of violence. For information, call (877)ASK-4JFS, or visit jfsla.org.