Generation to Generation:
Friendly Visitors to the Elderly

There is a great need in nursing homes across the country to alleviate the loneliness of residents. A friendly visitor can provide renewed vitality and interest in life for those who are lonely or depressed. With the prevalence of depression among nursing home residents rising as high as 50 percent, warm interactions and human connection are imperative. The Jewish Healing Network of Chicago ensures that isolated Jewish seniors can experience the warmth of consistent visits from Jewish community members. 

Personalized training is available.  Contact Carol Berry at 847 745 5404 for more information.

To be added to the JHNC mailing list, click here and choose JHNC.

Generation to Generation will train volunteers and link them with nursing homes or assisted living facilities in their community to visit, lead discussions or services. Training is facilitated by Rabbi Joseph S. Ozarowski and Carol E. Berry of the Jewish Healing Network of Chicago. Tracey Lipsig Kite, JHNC Director and other social workers, professionals and volunteers play key roles in training volunteers. A ten-month volunteer commitment is requested.

Additional workshops for those interested in leading holiday and Shabbat services are also available. Quarterly support groups provide a forum for volunteers to share their experiences and learn from other volunteers. Guidance, continuing education and on-going support is given through the Jewish Healing Network of Chicago.

"In the presence of the aged shall you rise, and you shall honor the face of the elderly, and you should revere your G-d, I am the L-rd."- --Leviticus 19:32

Bikur Cholim (Visiting the Sick)

Partnering with Chicago-area synagogues, we offer training classes to help synagogue members understand the dos and don’ts of visiting people who are sick, and our unique Jewish guidance for doing so. Training classes last from two to six weeks, depending on the needs of the synagogue and cover many topics including empathetic listening, using Jewish spiritual resources and prayer and setting limits.

JHNC also works with and supports coordinators at area synagogues to start and maintain Bikur Cholim programs in their synagogues. A group of Bikur Cholim coordinators from local synagogues meets twice each year to share ideas, concerns and suggestions.

"Whoever visits the sick takes away 1/60 of their illness"
- Talmud, Nedarim 39b

Shaarei Chesed: Support and Comfort with Advanced Illness

Our preferred provider hospice, Seasons Hospice, is looking for members of the Jewish community to visit hospice patients, becoming an important member of the hospice team.

Click here to learn Tips to Help Those Facing a Serious Illness

Click here to learn Tips about Making a Shiva Call