Finding Strength and Community: Janet’s Story

At Jewish Family & Children’s Service Senior Enrichment, our goal is to provide older adults with a dynamic, supportive and fun-filled environment that promotes learning, self-discovery and connection.

For many of our participants, these classes become a special part of their routine. Take Janet Reed, for example—her nearly decade-long experience illustrates the power of staying active and connected through our program.

Discovering Purpose Through Senior Enrichment

Janet Reed, originally from Staten Island, spent 35 years working as an architect in Phoenix. Despite some health challenges along the way, including rheumatoid arthritis and surgeries, her love for travel and new experiences has never faded. While traveling has become harder as she’s gotten older, she still finds joy in exploring the world in any way she can.

Janet first heard about our Senior Enrichment program in 2016, not long after retiring. A friend had mentioned the classes to someone else, but Janet’s curiosity got the best of her—so she decided to check them out for herself. What she found was a variety of engaging in-person opportunities, and before long, she was hooked.

“Her gratitude for the program is evident, so much so that she plans her schedule around the classes she’s signed up for.”

These days, Janet joins at least three classes a week virtually, fitting them right into her routine alongside volunteering, visiting friends and tackling home projects. Between doctor appointments and physical therapy, our Senior Enrichment program adds a sense of joy and structure to her days—something she truly looks forward to.

Staying Connected and Engaged

For Janet, the program has offered more than just a way to stay active; it’s given her a real sense of community. She feels like a regular in her exercise class, even though many of the participants have never met in person. And it’s not just fitness that keeps her engaged—she loves the educational lectures too, from Phoenix Art Museum tours to history discussions and even virtual tours to places like France and China.

When classes moved online during the pandemic, Janet actually found it even easier to participate. Since she was already familiar with Zoom, the transition was a breeze, and she was able to take even more classes than before. What started as small in-person exercise classes has now grown into a vibrant online community—proof of just how valuable virtual programming can be.

The Benefits of Participation

Some of Janet’s favorite classes are exercise series led by instructor Zoe. After a leg fracture in 2020 led to multiple surgeries, she was hesitant to get back into physical activity. But Zoe’s supportive approach—focusing on modifications and making sure everyone feels included—helped her ease back in at her own pace. Little by little, she regained her strength, going from relying heavily on a walker to feeling more independent and balanced.

But for Janet, the benefits go beyond just physical improvements. The classes have lifted her spirits, making her feel more hopeful, confident and upbeat.

Encouraging Others to Join

For those hesitant about virtual learning, Janet offers simple advice: “Just give it a try. It’s easier than you think!” She remembers when she took the plunge into using tech for travel, telling herself, “Janet, be a big girl and get your plane ticket on your phone!” That same “you’ve got this” attitude applies to Senior Enrichment—there’s something for everyone, and the benefits far outweigh any initial hesitations.

When it comes to her experience with Senior Enrichment, Janet sums it up with one word: “Enriching”—and she laughs, admitting she may have borrowed that straight from the program’s title! She loves the variety of topics, the knowledge of the instructors and the convenience of learning from home. Her gratitude for the program is evident, so much so that she plans her schedule around the classes she’s signed up for.

Join the Senior Enrichment Community

Janet’s story is just one example of how the Senior Enrichment program can make a difference. Whether you're looking to stay active, try something new or meet others with similar interests, there’s a class for you. With both in-person and virtual options, getting involved has never been easier.

So, are you or a loved one over 60 ready to start your own enriching journey? Check out our class offerings and sign up today. Let’s keep learning, growing and connecting—together!