There are moments in my work at Jewish Senior Life when I’m reminded why this community is so extraordinary. The 8 over 80 Getting to Know You Honoree and Student Luncheon at Meer Apartments on Wednesday was one of those moments.
As I looked around the room, I saw decades of leadership, volunteerism, creativity, activism, and generosity seated across from the next generation of Jewish leaders. Our Eight Over 80 Tikkun Olam Award Honorees who are philanthropists, educators, artists, legal experts, activists, and lifelong volunteers, met their Frankel Jewish Academy student partners for the first time. These students are entrepreneurs, athletes, musicians, environmental advocates, future doctors, writers, and civic leaders. Together, they represent the continuity of Jewish values and the power of storytelling across generations.
Michigan-based honorees joined us in person, sharing lunch, laughter, and early reflections on lives shaped by service to Jewish communal organizations, Israel, education, social justice, and cultural enrichment. Three honorees currently in Florida were unable to attend, but even distance could not diminish the experience. After lunch, students connected with the Floridians via FaceTime during interview sessions, proving once again that technology can meaningfully bridge generations when purpose leads the way.
The afternoon was filled with gratitude for our honorees who have spent lifetimes repairing the world, for our students eager to learn and carry these stories forward, and for the volunteers, committee members, and staff who bring this signature event to life. We were honored to welcome Jewish Senior Life leadership, Frankel Jewish Academy faculty, past Eight Over 80 honorees, committee members and family who continue to support the JSL mission.
One honoree, Carol Kent, captured the spirit of the day beautifully when she shared, “It was a beautiful afternoon, I felt like I entered a new world. The hospitality made me feel truly special, and I look forward to what is yet to come.” Her words reflect exactly what we hope this experience creates: connection, inspiration, and anticipation.
These interviews and relationships will become the heart of our Eight Over 80 Gala on Sunday, May 17, at Congregation Shaarey Zedek, where the stories of our honorees will be shared with the broader community. The event is not only a celebration, but also JSL’s largest annual fundraiser, supporting critical quality-of-life programs for older adults across our campuses in West Bloomfield and Oak Park.
Watching students and honorees lean in, listen deeply, and begin to build real relationships reminded me that Tikkun Olam is not only about what we’ve done, but about what we pass on. I’m grateful to everyone who made this afternoon so meaningful, and I can’t wait to share these remarkable stories with you.
Shabbat Shalom