Jewish Family Services (JFS) Ottawa and AJA 50+ have come together to launch a new digital community space aimed at keeping Jewish seniors in Ottawa connected, informed, and engaged. The Ottawa Jewish Seniors Group on Facebook is the latest initiative powered through a Jewish Federation of Ottawa Microgrant, created in response to growing needs for connection, especially in an increasingly digital world.
The closed Facebook group, launching later in June, is designed to offer seniors a familiar and accessible platform where they can exchange cultural traditions, stay updated on local events, and access community resources — all in one convenient space.
A response to community voices
The idea for the group emerged after both organizations noticed a recurring theme among the seniors they support: a desire to remain socially and culturally connected, particularly as in-person events became less frequent or harder to attend due to mobility, transportation, or health challenges.
“We were hearing from seniors that while many had adapted to using Facebook to stay in touch with family, they were still looking for more meaningful ways to stay engaged with the Jewish community,” said Ranit Braun, manager of the Thelma Steinman Seniors Support Services team at JFS Ottawa. “This group provides that space, allowing people to share holiday traditions, life experiences, and important community updates in a way that feels natural and supportive.”
According to AJA 50+ Executive Director Sheila Osterer, the platform fills a gap that became especially evident during and after the pandemic years. “Digital tools aren’t just for younger people anymore. Seniors are online, and they’re asking for opportunities to engage. This group is our answer to that call,” she said. “We want to ensure that Jewish culture and community don’t get lost in digital spaces—they need to thrive there too.”
A collaborative effort
JFS Ottawa and AJA 50+ have long shared a commitment to serving older adults in the Jewish community. This Facebook group marks a new chapter in their collaboration, combining the social service expertise of JFS with AJA 50+’s long-standing role as a hub for Jewish adult education and engagement.
With support from a Federation Microgrant, the organizations were able to quickly move from concept to launch, investing in digital facilitation training, group moderation guidelines, and outreach to local seniors and partner organizations.
What the group offers
While the Ottawa Jewish Seniors Group is hosted on Facebook, the content goes far beyond typical social media posts. Members will find:
• A curated calendar of local and Jewish holiday events
• Updates on health and wellness resources
• Stories, recipes, and cultural exchanges submitted by group members
• Guidance on navigating digital platforms and services
• Occasional live Q&A sessions with community professionals
Participation is open to Jewish seniors in the Ottawa area, and membership is moderated to maintain a safe and respectful environment.
In-person launch event on June 24
To introduce the new initiative and help seniors get started, JFS Ottawa and AJA 50+ will host a Lunch and Launch event on Tuesday, June 24, from 12to 2p.m. at Kehillat Beth Israel (KBI). Attendees will have a chance to meet the group administrators, ask questions, and receive assistance in joining the Facebook group if needed.
The event is designed to be both an orientation and an opportunity to gather in person as the digital community takes shape.
Looking ahead
Both organizations see the Facebook group as a stepping stone to further digital inclusion for Ottawa’s Jewish seniors. They plan to use member feedback to shape future programming, both online and offline.
“This isn’t just about technology,” said Osterer. “It’s about ensuring that seniors continue to feel seen, valued, and part of something meaningful. That sense of belonging doesn’t stop when you log off — it carries into every part of life.