MAY 2 • 2024 | 25
seniors with a song or other performance.
Prior to the first event, a lot of thought
was given to just how much structure would
be needed. “Summer 2023, our campers
from Camp Gan Israel at The Shul had the
first visit to Meer Apartments,
” Itty said.
“The chairs in the rooms were set up so
every other had a bright cushion marking
the seats for the 4-year-olds.
“Every single pair worked!” Itty recalled.
“The feeling in the room was literally like
we were at a simchah. Really, really joyful.
”
Parents said their children came home
and shared that Grandfriends was the best
day of camp. “This was wonderful, yet
surprising to hear considering how much
more traditional fun is packed into camp,
”
Itty shared.
One child particpant had recently
lost his grandfather. After participating
in Grandfriends, the child came home
overjoyed and told his parents, “I have a
new zaydie!”
Jennifer Kravis, mother of Harper, 4,
shared she knew her daughter had an innate
ability to bring joy to others.
“The Grandfriends delight in the kids and
make them feel seen and loved,
” Kravis said.
“Harper paired with Mar and they “took to
each other right away,
” she said.
Not only were the program organizers
initially unsure of just how much structure
and facilitating would be needed, but the
seniors also were worried of being able to
do their part. One great-grandmother who
would be meeting with her own great-
grandchild worried and asked, “Who will
drive the child home?”
The staff told the seniors their only “job”
was to have quality and undistracted time
with the child. Any other needs would be
taken care of.
“The seniors are giving a tremendous
gift to the children,
” Itty said. “Children are
not used to having someone there for them
with no phones. Time fully engaged is a
gigantic gift.
”
After the initial success in January
2024, Grandfriends sessions took place
at two locations, Meer Apartments and
All Seasons of West Bloomfield. Plans are
already in the works for further expansion
of Grandfriends. Grandfriends Mini,
next on the horizon, is a mommy-and-
me experience for even younger children
accompanied by their parent to participate
in the Grandfriends experience.
To learn more, visit theshul.net/grandfriends or reach out
to Mussie Shemtov at (248) 757-3015.
Shirley H. putting
a mustache on
Heshel Pinson
Ruth K. smiling
with Arya
Rafi Mendelson with his
great-grandma Rene Leiberman
Grandfriends at All
Seasons playing
parachute together