June Featured Program - Para-Chaplain
The para-chaplain program in the Denver area currently consists of 15 volunteer para-chaplains who reach hundreds of Jewish older adults across 14 residential facilities. Para-chaplains lead Shabbat and holiday services and meet one-on-one with residents. In the past year, we added four new para-chaplains; we also had an existing volunteer take on an additional role as a friendly visitor to an older adult who is the only Jewish person at her facility. We added one brand new facility, elevated another from only three holiday visits a year to regular Shabbat services, and had one of our new para-chaplains take over a commitment at a facility where Rabbi Rick had been visiting.
At the facility where the residents wished to add Shabbat services, we started with a conservative approach, as we usually do, and began having our para-chaplain visit once a month. Turnouts were consistently high; so after a few months, the para-chaplain and residents chose to expand their program to two Shabbat services a month—a true sign of success!
The matching of the friendly visitor with the sole Jewish resident was another big success. Rabbi Rick had been meeting with the resident. One of our para-chaplains was looking to expand her volunteer experience. Rabbi Rick then realized that these two individuals would be a perfect fit—they are both from Chicago and are both lifelong learners with multiple degrees. They hit it off immediately, even discovering connections about places they both knew in Chicago. The match has met each of their needs in a deeply meaningful way!
We are always looking to bring new para-chaplains onto our team. Rabbi Rick would be delighted to hear from you if you’re interested in learning more about taking on a new fulfilling commitment.