For Jewish Pavilion volunteers, senior smiles are worth a thousand words

The Jewish Pavilion gave Chanukah parties at over 50 senior facilities in Central Florida this Chanukah season. This is a tremendous undertaking but the value is incredible as it reaches so many in senior care facilities. Chanukah is a joyous time for Jewish families, but oftentimes awkward if not difficult for seniors when it comes to navigating the holiday period with Christmas filling the air everywhere. The Jewish Pavilion brings Chanukah parties to Central Florida senior facilities so that the Jewish resident is not dependent on their family or the facility to provide them with an appropriate holiday experience. These Jewish Pavilion's holiday parties are open to all faiths. Jewish traditions are explained to all those in attendance. Jewish Pavilion Program Director Gloria Green, who covers Orlando to Southwest Orange County for the Pavilion, held Chanukah parties at 11 facilities. Latkes with sour cream and applesauce, jelly donuts and Star of David cookies highlighted the experience for all.  Entertainers Carol Stein, Penny D'Agostino, Paul Stenzler and Kenny Wayne graciously gave of their time to entertain and tell the Chanukah story in song. TooJays in Ocoee donated the latkes for most of these parties along with gefilte fish for the more adventuresome. VITAS Hospice provided hand sanitizer party favors for all. Jacqueline Kazimer of Hospice of the Comforter donated the jelly donuts. Both Jacqueline and Jackie Benfeld, a senior at UCF in Health Services Management, gave generously of their time to help at most of the parties. The expressions on the faces in the attached pictures speak volumes about how much bringing back these traditions was appreciated.

To become a volunteer or contribute to The Jewish Pavilion call 407-678-9363 or see www.jewishpavilion.org.