Randy is a 76 year old older adult who moved to the Akron area in 2024 to be closer to the Cleveland Clinic/Akron General Hospital due to severe health challenges (both physical and mental health needs). He had no support system in his life when he arrived. He was estranged from his family with the […]

The Mercaz Room on the Schultz Campus for Jewish Life was filled with laughter, costumes, and the sounds of Purim celebration on March 3, when Jewish Family Service hosted “A Purim Palooza” for older adults in the Akron community. Friends of JFS gathered from across the community-clients, Center Towers residents, volunteers, board members, and staff. […]

JFS welcomed its newest social worker, Kathryn “Kate” Vajda, in November. As an Older Adult Care Navigator, Kate helps older adults plan for independence, stability, and good health as they age. She conducts in-home assessments, connects seniors with needed services, and consults with older adults and their families to build strongsupport systems. Kate is excited […]

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 […]

Your Generosity Changes LivesBy Buffy Ramos LSW, Director of Older Adult Services I’m always amazed by people’s generosity. Just this week, an older adult who is a friend of JFS stopped by my office to personally drop off a donation for our programs. As we talked, he shared that his gift was motivated by gratitude. Despite […]

Did you know that ginger was known for warming up people? And ginger has also warmed and spiced up our language. In the past, ginger was also known as an antidote for poisoning. Join us to learn more and receive three recipes to try in the next two weeks. Share your results when we meet […]

The Haggadah is ageless and timeless; it is an evolving story that reflects our individual selves, as well as collective experiences, as Jews. Join us as we explore the history and examine historic Haggadots. Free to participate. Tuesday, APRIL 7 (rescheduled from August 1)1:00 – 2:00pm VIA ZOOM Complete the registration form below to participate. […]

We’re going to follow-up on our spice of the month: ginger. We will discuss the results of trying three recipes with ginger and share some of our own favorite recipes using this spice. Free to participate. Wednesday, APRIL 151:00 – 2:00pm VIA ZOOM Complete the registration form below to participate. You will receive a link […]

On September 11th, 2001, 38 planes headed to New York City were diverted to Gander, Newfoundland, Canada. A town of 9,000 took in 7,000 passengers for 4 days until American airspace reopened. After watching it together, we will briefly discuss the film. Free to participate. Wednesday, APRIL 221:00 – 3:30pm VIA ZOOM Complete the registration […]

Brain Health & Wellness Series More than 6.7 million people in the U.S. are living with a dementia diagnosis, yet too often they face stigma, exclusion, and a loss of voice in decisions about their own lives. A diagnosis should never mean losing dignity, respect, or the right to participate in care and personal decision-making. […]