NOVEMBER 14 • 2024 | 21
decades working within the
Jewish community, Tsila Pleasant
hasn’t forgotten what it’s like to
come to a new country without
language or opportunities.
“People aren’t just looking for
a job,” she says. “In conversations
with newcomers to this country,
it doesn’t matter where they come
from, you have to understand
the family dynamics; you have
to understand the person here
[today] and where they left from.”
For Tsila Pleasant, that
understanding goes beyond
simply helping people identify
meaningful career paths.
Daughters Erika Jones and
Rachael Pleasant say their mother
often collects items for clients
to help them feel more at home
and, for many, more human and
dignified.
Growing up, Rachael Pleasant
recalls picking up toothpaste,
diapers and feminine products
for families in need. While it
wasn’t necessarily part of Tsila’s
job description, it was something
her mother did. “Clients would
cry because they were so
overwhelmed and so grateful,” she
says.
What sets their mother apart,
the sisters say, is her humility.
Pleasant has never sought
recognition for her efforts, and to
her, the greatest reward in life is
helping others live fully.
For now, Pleasant has no plans
to retire. She continues to work
at Gesher Human Services as
an employment specialist and
enjoys spending time with her
granddaughter, Samantha Jones.
“My mom has come across
really tough stories and really
tough backgrounds,” Jones says.
“For 35 years to collect those
experiences and still love what
you do takes a very specific
human being. She’s truly a rock
for so many individuals and
families.”
For the Joys
of
Independent
Senior Living
2024
AGING IS INEVITABLE
FEATURING ALYSSA J. TOBIA,
MSW, CDP, LLC, SENIOR ADVOCATE
Join us for answers to all of the the questions you’re
afraid to ask about navigating the aging journey for
yourself or a loved one.
November 20, 2024 • 5:00 PM
Please RSVP by 11/18/24 to 248.237.6948 or aswb.dsm@allseasonsliving.com
5600 Drake Road | West Bloomfield, MI 48322
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