Jewish Family Services is excited to introduce the new name for this newsletter publication. The Harry Berzack Senior Connections Newsletter recognizes his contributions to our community. Many thanks to Stan Greenspon for supporting JFS and honoring his close friend.
A Message from the Team
As I write this, we’re just about to celebrate the holiday of Passover, which commemorates the Jewish people’s exodus from slavery into freedom. This holiday is also called the Festival of Spring and it always brings a feeling of renewal and new beginnings. The flowers bloom, the weather begins to warm up and there is a sense that the relaxed days of summer are quickly approaching. Spring is a time that lifts us up from the doldrums of the cold and dark winter days. It is a time to refresh and reflect. Here at JFS, we are excited about this new season. We’re seeing growth in our Senior Engagement department (read on to get to know our newest staff member), as well as in the number of senior adults we are able to connect with and the ways we can engage you. The celebration of spring is a celebration of opportunity. If you have ideas about opportunities for seniors, we’d love to hear from you!
Sheryl Gerrard
Senior Engagement Manager
Bernadette Holloway
Senior Engagement Case Manager
Yolanda Thorton
Senior Engagement Specialist
Amanda Levine
Senior Engagement Therapist
Spotlight on… Bernadette Holloway,
JFS Senior Engagement Case Manager
We’re excited to welcome our newest team member who started on April 10th. Her full-time position will include providing Case Management services to both Jewish and non-Jewish senior adults, as well as providing assistance to non-senior individuals within the Jewish community and assisting with various programs relevant to senior adults. We sat down with Bernadette to find out more about her:

How long have you lived in Charlotte and what was your path to arrive here? 
The first time I moved to Charlotte, I was 14 and just starting high school. My family initially moved here when my dad was promoted. I remained in Charlotte through high school and college, then moved away for graduate school in Cleveland. I moved back to Charlotte at the end of 2008, with my own family in tow, after being recruited for a position with Mecklenburg County. I knew I wanted to get back to Charlotte as my parents were planning to retire here and I wanted my children, and myself, to remain close to them.

Who is in your family?
My husband, Asa, and I have been married 20 years this year and we have three amazing children, Caleb, 18; Cassidy, 17 and Cate, 16. Our family also includes our two furry members, Duke, a Westie mix, and Elvis, a Cavapoo. I am also very fortunate to have my mom, sister and her family, close-by in Mooresville.

Why did you want to work with JFS and particularly this role?
JFS is a very well respected organization built on the values of social justice, kindness, equality and care for each other and our communities. These values are very important to me and have been a guiding force in my career as a social worker, in my personal life and as a parent. The Senior Engagement Case Manager role spoke to me immediately because I feel a strong responsibility for, and connection with my elders. Serving the senior population is my passion and calling and I couldn't think of a better place, with a wider reach, than JFS.

What is something you like to do when you’re not at work?
I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, reading, baking and making bead bracelets. I love the NC mountains and my husband and I look for opportunities to get away and enjoy nature together.

What is one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?
I think that people would be surprised to learn that I am an avid Grateful Dead fan and actually followed them on tour for an entire summer in college. 
Spring is in the Air! Time for Local Fruits and Veggies!
This is the perfect time of year to visit some of the amazing farmer’s markets in our area. Whether you’re looking to purchase local and seasonal vegetables, fruits or various proteins that can be found in abundance during the warmer months, or just want to spend some time exploring the crafts, soaps and other sundries available, the local markets have something for everyone. You can subscribe to a market’s mailing list for insider updates and to order foods online for pick up. Some of the nearby markets to consider include:

  • Matthews Community Farmers’ Market, where all items are grown or produced within 50 miles. This market is open on Saturday only in downtown Matthews. Get there early for the best variety of options.

  • Mecklenburg County Farmers’ Market, which dates back to 1937, is the oldest market in North Carolina. This is a year-round indoor market with a wonderful array of local produce as well as canned vegetables, honey and jams.

  • Simpsons’ Produce (better known as the Kings Drive Market), where you can find a wide array of flowers and plants, in addition to all types of fruits, vegetables, meats and other seasonal items. This market is open on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
Spring Has Sprung Strawberry Recipe
 How about a savory recipe for those fresh strawberries for a change? This one couldn’t be simpler but is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
  • French Baguette – cut into ½ inch slices
  • Strawberries – sliced into quarters 
  • Fresh Basil – cut into 1 inch strips
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil – to toss with strawberries
  • Goat Cheese Log – room temperature
  • Balsamic Glaze – purchase prepared or make a balsamic reduction
Directions: 
  • Preheat oven to 375 degrees. On a cookie sheet, place baguettes on a single layer and toast for 5-7 minutes. Remove from oven.
  • In a small bowl add strawberries, basil and olive oil and toss.
  • Spread a thin layer of goat cheese on top of the baguette. Put the strawberry mixture on top and then drizzle with balsamic glaze.
National Mental Health Awareness Month
For more than 65 years, May has been observed as National Mental Health Awareness Month. Of course, mental health awareness is important all year long, but highlighting mental health in May allows us to raise awareness and show support for those who may be living with mental health challenges. Unfortunately, mental health disorders are often stigmatized and misunderstood, even in today’s society. This stigma can prevent individuals from accessing care and seeking appropriate treatment due to the fear of being treated differently by friends, family, or society in general. 

May is also Older Americans Month, which recognizes and celebrates the contributions of older adults across the nation. This month we celebrate the strength and resilience older adults have built over their lifetimes. One of the most important ways to develop emotional strength is through our connections with our communities. Through our relationships with others, we nurture ourselves and strengthen our well-being. Older adults who are experiencing mental health challenges, however, may not be engaging in interpersonal relationships or seeking support as needed. One statistic reports that 1 in 10 people over age 60 may suffer from major depression, but less than 3% of adults 65 and over received treatment from a mental health professional (mhanational.org). Depression is the most common mental health disorder in older adults. Due to the population aging, the number of seniors with mental health disorder is expected to double by 2030 (who.org). It is important to note that a decline in mental health is not a normal part of aging, and individuals of all ages can benefit from counseling services. It is not always easy to ask for help, so this month, try to encourage loved ones or peers to seek treatment if they appear to be struggling. Treatment is essential to bring relief, reduce symptoms, and overcome any self-judgment or shame. Anyone can experience mental health challenges, regardless of their background, age, culture, or ethnicity. Take the time this month to prioritize your mental health needs and seek out appropriate support and care. You are not alone!
Aging Unbound
 May is Older Americans Month and the 2023 theme is “Aging Unbound”. This theme offers an opportunity to explore a wide range of aging experiences and to promote the importance of enjoying independence and fulfillment by paving our own paths as we age.

Established in 1963, Older Americans Month (OAM) is celebrated every May. Led by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), OAM is a time for us to acknowledge the contributions and achievements of older Americans, highlight important trends, and strengthen our commitment to honoring our older citizens.

Here at JFS, we constantly strive to support our senior adult community to age healthfully and remain independent for as long as possible. During Older Americans month, we’d like to challenge you to explore some of the rewards of growing older. With age comes knowledge, which provides insight and confidence to understand and experience the world more deeply. Continue to grow that knowledge through reading, listening, classes, and creative activities. Stay active and engaged in your community through volunteering, participating in available programs or meeting with a younger community member to share your life experience. Relationships are an essential ingredient of well-being, and can enhance your quality of life by introducing new ideas and unique perspectives. Invest time with people to discover deeper connections with family, friends, and community members. 

If you’d like information about upcoming programs or are interested in meeting regularly with a volunteer visitor, please reach out to Jewish Family Services at 704.364.6594.
Upcoming Programs
Wellness Through Creative Expression
May 2nd – 23rd

“What’s Next? Understanding Senior Living Options”
May 22nd, 12 pm – 2 pm

Legislative Breakfast on topic of wellness at Eastway Rec Center
May 23rd 

704-364-6594
Something to Think About...
"Az du bist do, iz friling do"
When you are here, spring is here
Fall Word Search 
Keep your mind sharp! See how many words you can find:
For counseling services, food pantry information and more call JFS: (704) 364-6594 or go to jfscharlotte.org

Sponsored by Stan Greenspon