Every Class Is a Learning Experience

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Suzanne Dreyfus and Sue Fimmen

For Suzanne and Sue, retirement wasn’t just the end of their careers. It was the start of something entirely new.

Suzanne, a proud Bronx native and proclaimed “Doo-Wopp Queen,” retired in 2017 and quickly began searching for meaningful ways to fill her days. “When you’re retired, you think, ‘What am I going to do to fill in this time?’” she said. After spotting a listing in Jewish News for a class called Reader’s Theater, she saw an opportunity to blend her love of performing with a desire to connect. “Here’s an opportunity to sing again and I don’t have to pay an arm and a leg to do that.”

That first class opened the door to a full calendar of JFCS Senior Enrichment programming. Alongside her partner Sue, they dove into chorus groups, acting workshops and dance classes. “It filled our days,” Suzanne said. “We can’t wait for weekdays!”

For Sue, the experience was unexpected. “I was always outdoors playing when I was young, and I never sang and danced,” she said. “But I got to meet a lot of great people.” And with a little encouragement from Suzanne, she discovered she could sing after all.

But the impact went deeper than just entertainment. “It keeps us busy,” Suzanne said. “We think about the classes, we think about the people we met at the classes. Rather than just focusing on ourselves, which we can do at home!” she laughed.

The couple especially cherish the moments they’ve been able to give back, like singing for memory care patients. “When we would sing ‘God Bless America,’ they would sing along with us,” Suzanne recalled. “It gave me such satisfaction.”

When asked what keeps them coming back, Suzanne didn’t hesitate: “They are affordable. They are learning experiences. And they’re fun.” Sue smiled and added, “Friendship.”

For Suzanne, one word captures it all: “Enlightening. Every Class is a Learning Experience and every class is light.”

It’s that blend of joy, connection and community that has made JFCS Senior Enrichment such a meaningful part of their lives. Through these programs, Suzanne and Sue have found more than just activities; they have discovered purpose and belonging.

Keep Older Adults Connected and Thriving

For both, JFCS has become more than a service provider. It’s a vital part of their lives. “I would encourage others to support JFCS,” Suzanne said. “They help so many people, no matter what their religion is or their status in life.” Sue agreed: “They include everyone!”

JFCS Senior Enrichment helps adults stay active and engaged throughout every stage of aging. Your support helps make all of this possible, allowing more older adults to discover joy and belonging within our community.