Director of Older Adult Services, Buffy Ramos LSW recently had the opportunity to speak with JFS Akron’s new Advisory Committee Chair, Richard Zelin. Richard is a compassionate individual who is a fierce advocate for those in need and who has been involved with the agency for more than 25 years.

How did you get involved with JFS?

After working my way thru the Bethel Board for ten years and being president, I was asked to join the JFS board in 1998. After two years, I was asked to take on a leadership role on the board. I agreed because there is always a need to help older adults and I wanted to be a part of helping the Akron Jewish community. Why do you think JFS is important to the community TODAY? I believe JFS should be the first resource stop for older adults. We should be helping them to meet their daily physical and emotional needs. Also, we need to make the community aware of what we offer – especially to the families of the older adults. Many times, the families do not know where to turn when the challenges of care giving begin to emerge. JFS can be the resource hub for adult children who are assisting and caring for their aging parents.

What impact do you see JFS making in the lives of older adults?

I see older adults getting the help they need to safely live independently in their homes. I also see their adult children and loved ones feeling empowered to take good care of their aging parents. I also see older adults accessing great programs that they might not otherwise get to participate in, such as arts and culture and technology supports. I see Holocaust survivors being served, honored, and not forgotten.

Why should others get involved with JFS?

To help others but also to help themselves. To provide purpose and meaning. Since someday they will be older and need our services.

My goal is to spread the word of what JFS can offer the community. Awareness is key to our community members feeling confident to access JFS Akron for help. JFS Akron has a great team of social workers, counselors, and caseworkers who are ready to help.

Richard Zelin