34 | DECEMBER 14 • 2023 
J
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On Sunday, Nov. 5, 345 volunteers gath-
ered at Congregation Shaarey Zedek to 
participate in Jewish Family Service’s 
27th annual Fall Fix Up event. 
After a few words from JFS CEO 
Perry Ohren and Rabbi Aaron Starr 
from Shaarey Zedek, these eager helpers 
dispersed across Oakland County, rakes 
(and bags and leaf blowers) in hand, 
ready to help older adults served by JFS 
prepare for the cold winter months. 
“We were able to clean up 57 homes,
” 
said Alyah Al-Azem, JFS volunteer 

services coordinator. “We are always 
amazed at how the community doesn’t 
hesitate to come together to help those 
in need.
” 
One homeowner shared their appre-
ciation. 
“I looked out my window and saw 
a group clearing leaves from my yard. 
They worked and laughed, and every-
thing was so wonderful that I even start-
ed to cry, I was so touched. Thank you to 
JFS for the wonderful care for the elderly 
people. It means so much to us.
” 

The JFS Fall Fix-Up

CLOCKWISE, FROM ABOVE: Margrett family with homeowner Rae Nachler. Amy 
Singer, Amy Newman, Perry Ohren, Don Rochlen and Marc Bakst. Nadine and David 
Farbman and family. Leo and Rayna Sulzer.

faces&places

