discuss the stamp collecting hobby
At Jewish Family Service, connection is often where care begins. Through the Friendly Visitor program, volunteers from the community are matched with older adults for regular visits-bringing conversation, companionship, and a sense of belonging into their homes. But sometimes, something even more meaningful unfolds.
When Steve Katz began volunteering in late 2025, he was simply looking for a way to give back. Newly retired, he had extra time and a growing interest in stamp collecting—a hobby he had only just begun to explore. Not long after, he was matched with Ed Weisman, an older adult living in assisted living.
What neither of them knew at the time was how perfectly their lives would intersect. Ed had spent more than 30 years running a stamp shop in Stow, Ohio. A lifelong philatelist, he had built a career—and a deep well of knowledge—around the very subject Steve was just beginning to learn. From their very first visits, the connection was clear.
Now, the two meet about once a week, often spending an hour together talking about Ed’s life, his family, and, of course, stamp collecting. For Steve, the visits have become more than volunteer work. “He is an interesting conversationalist,” Steve shared. “We both enjoy the visits. It also gives me a worthwhile activity in my spare time.”
Living in assisted care can sometimes feel isolating, with limited opportunities for meaningful conversation. The Friendly Visitor program helps bridge that gap—offering not just presence, but genuine engagement. Ed describes Steve as “a great listener” who asks thoughtful questions and brings positivity into each visit.
Soon, Randy Katz (no relation), began joining as well, turning one connection into a small circle of friendship. Together, they bring energy, curiosity, and companionship—something Ed deeply appreciates. For Ed, the visits mean even more. “I feel honored that Steve and Randy come to see me,” he said. “It’s a very positive experience… their visits help me connect to the rest of the world.”
The impact extends beyond the visits themselves. Ed’s son, Marc, who lives out of state, says the program brings him peace of mind. Knowing that his father has regular social interaction—and people who genuinely care—makes a meaningful difference.
“Living out of state, I’m grateful for Steve’s visits,” he shared. “Regular social interaction is so important.”
Through the Friendly Visitor program, these moments of connection ripple outward— touching not just the individual receiving visits, but their families as well.
For volunteers like Steve, the experience is equally rewarding. “The best thing about the visits,” he said, “is that the clients are very appreciative and very much enjoy the conversations.” What begins as a simple visit often becomes something deeper: shared stories, mutual learning, and unexpected friendships.
At its heart, the Friendly Visitor program is about more than companionship. It’s about creating space for people to be seen, heard, and valued—and discovering that sometimes, the person who shows up to give support walks away with just as much in return.
JFS Akron helps individuals and families with