Two’s Company, a component of the JCS Behavioral Health Services division that assists seniors in Miami-Dade County, held a party recently at the Michael Ann Russell Jewish Community Center.  Since they started these events seven years ago, the volunteer committee led by JCS Volunteer Coordinator Barbara Davis has always planned them to coincide with a Jewish holiday, so this year’s theme was Tu B’Shevat, the New Year for trees.

This program pairs older adults receiving care management services through JCS – most of whom are Holocaust survivors – with screened and trained volunteers who stay in touch via regular phone calls and provide companionship, socialization and escort assistance.

As Barbara Davis explained, “We started these events because we realized one of the most important things for our clients is to get out of the house and socialize.  They love getting dressed up, dancing and interacting with the children.  So this gathering has now developed into a big party with about 130 clients attending.”

Volunteers traveled far and wide to pick up clients and bring them to the party, where they enjoyed a delicious buffet lunch, danced to music, and expressed appreciation for those who contribute so much to their quality of life.  “We make a real difference in the lives of these seniors,” Barbara added, “and none of this would be possible without the support of our dedicated volunteers.”