About Us

What is the Senior Circle of SF?

The Senior Circle of SF is a unique volunteer program under the auspices of North Beach Chabad designed to bring cheer and companionship into the lives of seniors all throughout S. Francisco. Whether for seniors living on their own, in assisted living facilities or convalescent homes, the Senior Circle matches up caring friends to be there with and for seniors on a bi-weekly basis – to visit, to assist and to uplift. To share experiences, to spend quality time, to celebrate special occasions and to create wonderful memories together.

It’s not just about visitation. It’s about friendship. It’s about community.

The Visits – A Gift of Mutual Benefit

Whether a senior has family and friends who visit with him or her on a consistent basis or is quite alone in the world, regular visits with a designated Senior Circle volunteer opens an entire new world of social connection and interaction. A relationship of love and caring, devotion and tenderness, is fostered and built upon.

For the seniors, simply knowing that someone with a kind heart is there to lend a sensitive ear or hold their hand is reason enough for them to smile and feel uplifted – all week long. Activities and pastimes such as reading, studying, letter-writing, crafting or game-playing, or venturing out for neighborhood strolls, can serve as delightful bonuses to Senior Circle visits.

For the volunteers, there is the boundless sense of satisfaction of performing a deed that is deemed of highest virtue in Judaism – showing due respect for the elderly, helping ensure that their golden years are as pleasant and rewarding as can be. The visits also allow for volunteers to be mentored – to learn the valuable lessons of life’s journeys from those who have traveled its many miles.

Together, seniors and volunteers develop a newfound appreciation for the joys and blessings of life. By sharing personal experiences and accomplishments, they inform and enrich each other’s lives. A mutual gift indeed.

Culture and Tradition

In addition to facilitating and coordinating the bi-weekly visits, the Senior Circle hosts monthly and seasonal programs for seniors at major assisted living facilities throughout the Conejo Valley.

Judaic programs include festive celebrations in conjunction with all of the major Jewish holidays, monthly classes and lectures, school plays and choral performances. Cultural programs include theatrical readings, comedy shows, film screenings and “town hall” discussions. Seniors living on their own or in smaller residential care centers are invited to participate in these special programs and events as well.

Once a year, the Senior Circle hosts a grand Luncheon and “Day of Inspiration and Solidarity” for all seniors and volunteers enrolled in the program.

The Senior Circle also regularly provides informative reading materials and special gift packages to all participating seniors, further enhancing their appreciation and celebration of the holidays and traditions.