The Marlene

Marlene attends her local JASA Older Adult Center with her husband, Sheldon. A match made at JASA: Marlene and her husband Sheldon met seven years ago at their local JASA center. Sheldon had been a doctor, and Marlene devoted her life to raising her children. On Sheldon’s first visit, he found himself seated next to Marlene at the bridge table. The two instantly connected and were married a year later.

The dynamic duo attended every activity together at the center including lectures, fitness classes, and field trips. Because of the pandemic, JASA’s Older Adult Centers had been forced to close for in-person programming this year, but have found other ways to ensure that they remain connected to members. The director of Marlene and Sheldon’s senior center called to check in on the couple every single day. Marlene says that the director is like a close family member; she is nothing short of extraordinary, checking to make sure they had food, medicine, and clothes. The director has even connected with their families.

“We were stuck in the house and not able to see anyone, but our senior center director calls us every single day. Even our kids love her! Whenever we have a problem we go to her. Without JASA, we don’t know where we’d be.”

This bracelet is handmade with love and care by JASA seniors. Treat yourself today and support older New Yorkers!