Speaker at Dor L’Dor event discusses aging well

Rabbi Laura Geller gave an entertaining talk about her book, “Getting Good at Getting Older,” during the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island’s Dor L’Dor Society’s online event on Dec. 1.

Geller’s book, which she co-authored with her late husband, Richard Siegel, is divided into chapters that deal with several aspects of aging, and features tips and challenges for the “young older” – people who are still leading vibrant and active lives.  During her talk, she discussed the importance of not just the legacy one leaves behind, but also the legacy one lives – things done to make the world a better place.

Geller also commented that people are often focused on passing on things, instead of stories and memories.  For example, she said that since none of her children wanted her grandmother’s dresser, she instead focused on telling them stories about her grandmother and the memories she had of the dresser in her grandmother’s home. 

Sharing such memories builds a deeper connection to family history, she said.  During the event, there was a lively sharing of stories among the 40 program participants.

Geller, who is rabbi emerita of Temple Emanuel of Beverly Hills, spoke as part of the Jewish Alliance’s Behind the Book series, made possible by a partnership with the Jewish Book Council.  Those in attendance were greeted by Mitzi Berkelhammer, chair of the Jewish Federation Foundation; Rich Glucksman, vice president of Philanthropy; and Adam Greenman, president and CEO of the Jewish Alliance.

Membership in the Dor L’Dor Society is open to people who have informed the Jewish Alliance that they have committed to a legacy gift to benefit the organization.  This can include establishing a bequest or living trust, designating the Jewish Alliance as the beneficiary of a life insurance policy, or creating a charitable remainder trust or other planned gift that will provide for the future of the Jewish community. 

If you should be considered a member of the Dor L’Dor Society, or would like more information about establishing a planned gift at the Jewish Alliance, contact Sara Masri at 401-421-4111, ext. 223.

SARA MASRI (smasri@jewishallianceri.org) is chief philanthropy officer at the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island.