WHIRL Magazine: Events

Published in November 2014

Jewish Association on Aging: The Art of Aging

The Jewish Association on Aging (JAA) proved that maturing is not only graceful, but artful as well. The Art of Aging, held at Senator John Heinz History Center, entertained 350 guests of JAA donors and care recipients alike with an exhilarating speed art performance by The 3Painters, artists who create large renderings of pop icons during the course of one single song. The eight speedy masterpieces of Elvis, John Lennon, and others created that night were auctioned off following the performance. “We were able to entertain our guests, but we also reached our goal of letting our community know we need to help our seniors,” says Director of Development & Community Engagement Beverly Brinn. “We were able to talk succinctly about what it’s like to age in our community and the care people need. This is something that affects everyone — there’s no age barrier. We all start aging from the time we’re born.” The event raised more than $150,000 to support for the Benevolent Care Fund, which offers supplemental funds for seniors in the JAA’s residential communities. Care services include home health and day services; Kosher Meals on Wheels (KMOW); personal care communities; and nursing and rehabilitation. “We have never asked someone to leave one of our residences for lack of ability to pay, thanks to the Benevolent Care Fund, and we never plan to in the future,” she says.