'JP Connections' honors volunteers

Members of the Jewish Pavilion are invited to attend "JP Connections: Honoring our Volunteers," a luncheon for volunteers and women who support the nonprofit, on Thursday, Dec. 5, at 11 a.m. at the Hilton Orlando/Altamonte Springs. Participants will enjoy a gourmet meal, a Chico's Fashion Show and a mini-holiday bazaar. Vendors will be selling jewelry, purses, scarves, Judaica and other gifts for the holidays. Participants who purchase raffle tickets will have the opportunity to win gifts from the vendors.

The cost of the luncheon is $25.

The Jewish Pavilion's membership year coincides with the Jewish calendar. It goes from September through August. Annual membership in the Jewish Pavilion starts at $36. Community members can join at any time of the year. Funds are used to provide holiday and Shabbat programs, friendly visits and intergenerational activities for seniors and frail adults who live in long-term care facilities. No one wants to be forgotten... It is the mission of the Jewish Pavilion "to enhance the lives of our elders and their families by strengthening their connection to the community."

"The Jewish Pavilion is known for its incredible volunteer force," said Nancy Ludin, executive director. "In addition to the 40 people who serve on either the Jewish Pavilion board or the Friends of the Jewish Pavilion board, a women's auxiliary, we have 40 more people who serve on our committees. We also have people who visit the elderly, lead services, participate in our holiday parties, office volunteers, bakers, musicians, artists and computer experts. Jewish children in the community have engaged with the Pavilion in a number of ways, including visitin, making holiday cards and gifts, playing games, entertaining and leading holiday programs. All in all, the Pavilion is blessed to have more than 400 volunteers. While we can never thank them enough, the annual Volunteer Luncheon is to honor them for their service."

Pat Rubenstein is chairing "JP Connections" which was combined for the first time this year with the Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon. Rubenstein has been involved with the Jewish Pavilion since its inception in 2001. She has worked as a volunteer and a program assistant for the nonprofit agency and she has spearheaded several service projects. She currently serves on the Friends of the Jewish Pavilion board.. To receive an invitation or learn more about the event, call 407-678-9363 or email Nancy Ludin at nancyludin@jewishpavilion.org.