A BRIDGE BETWEEN GENERATIONS

Nestled in the vibrant heart of the Jewish Community Center in West Bloomfield, the expansive dining room at Meer Independent Living Apartments provided the perfect backdrop for meaningful connections. It’s here that unique partnerships come to life. This year, eight remarkable individuals, each over the age of 80, met their counterparts, eight enthusiastic juniors from Frankel Jewish Academy. Eager to listen, learn, and document the stories of their partners, the students embarked on a project that would span generations, connecting their lives through shared history, experience, and community.

The room was alive with anticipation as the honorees awaited the arrival of their student partners. Settling into their chairs with spouses, JSL staff, and the students’ parents, they prepared for the day’s festivities: a photoshoot with Brett Mountain and a delightful meal at the annual “Getting to Know You Luncheon,” hosted by Jewish Senior Life in their honor.

One of the greatest joys of leading this event is getting to know the individuals and their families. We are a close-knit community, and we deeply appreciate the value of connection, whether it’s making new friends or expanding our circles. I get emotional thinking about the purpose of this special event, which not only creates meaningful relationships but also raises crucial funds for the residents, programs, and facilities each year.

The students, fresh-faced and slightly windblown from a walk across the Jewish Community campus, entered the room with youthful energy and determination. Laptops, notebooks, and pens in hand, they approached their assigned partners with nervous smiles and eager glances. Tables of eight, each a link in the chain of history, continued to grow.

With a microphone in hand, I welcomed the group and thanked Marcia Mittelman, Meer Administrator for hosting us, then introduced Rabbi Elliot Pachter, Rabbinic Advisor of Frankel Jewish Academy. He led us in the Hamotzi and shared personal stories about his connections to the honorees. He also spoke of his long history of involvement with our agency. Laura Shields, Meer Dining Services Manager, and her team created a beautiful luncheon, with the assistance of two former “Eight Over 80” honorees, Janet Moses and Janet Pont, who spoke warmly of the relationships they had formed with their own student partners. CEO Nancy Heinrich shared her reflections, recalling her first “Eight Over 80” event and the time continues to tick away the years.

As I shared stories of the residents’ vibrant lives and their involvement in the many activities on our campuses, I read aloud the significant lists of volunteer commitments of each honoree and their student partners. In the weeks to come, these “Eight Over 80” honorees and their FJA students will continue to meet, share their stories, and build lasting friendships. As the students finalize the honorees’ biographies, they’ll discover more than facts; they’ll uncover lessons in wisdom, resilience, and love, forming bonds that transcend time. When the season concludes, I am confident these connections will continue to bridge the gap between generations, creating a legacy of understanding, respect, and shared history.

We are excited to honor these eight distinguished leaders on Sunday, May 18th, at Congregation Shaarey Zedek, and we invite you to join us in celebrating the honorees and students to hear their inspiring stories at the 32nd Annual Tikkun Olam Awards Fundraiser, Eight Over Eighty.

Shabbat Shalom and Happy Purim!