Students at Hillel Milwaukee are reaching out to Jewish older adults who may enjoy and benefit from a connection with college students. Through College Connections for Older Adults, they will contact seniors in a variety of ways – a greeting card, a winter gift basket, a letter, or a phone call.
Hillel students are eager to connect with seniors who feel the need for more social contact. “Our students are very busy with school, work and other responsibilities, and their schedules are unpredictable,” said Deb Fendrich, executive director of Hillel Milwaukee. “This is a perfect project because it allows students to work with seniors in a meaningful way on their own terms.”
“We know that many older adults struggle with loneliness, and this has become an even bigger challenge during the pandemic,” said Darla Flemming, Federation Community Planner, who is helping coordinate the program. “It’s part of a larger initiative to support older adults.”
Additional efforts include social activities, support services, and memory care programs, provided virtually or in person, in partnership with the Harry & Rose Samson Family Jewish Community Center, Jewish Family Services, and Ovation Communities.
To sign up for this program, or for more information, older adults or their loved ones can contact Flemming at 414-390-5769 or DarlaF@MilwaukeeJewish.org. Online registration is also available at MilwaukeeJewish.org/CollegeConnections. Individuals will be required to provide their name, mailing address, and phone number. The deadline for registration is December 15.
This project is funded by The Fund for Jewish MKE of the Milwaukee Jewish Federation.