By Shelley Arron-Cohen

The Hillel Lodge Auxiliary is all about “Caring in the Community” — and this year proudly celebrates its 60th anniversary.

The seeds of the Bess and Moe Greenberg Family Hillel Lodge were planted as early as 1956, with the Jewish community working to secure land on Wurtemburg Street, hire an architect, raise funds, and obtain the necessary permits. It took nearly nine years before the first resident moved into Hillel Lodge in 1965.

Guided by the commandment "Honour Thy Father and Thy Mother," a devoted community member, Helen Beiles, founded the Auxiliary to provide the "extras" that help turn a residence into a home.

Helen, the first Auxiliary President, laid the foundation for a long line of successors, including Freda Carlofsky, Elsie Baker, Dorothy Goldman, Rachel Nadolny, Celia Wynberg, Eva Epstein, Thelma Steinman, Dora Litwack, Pauline Litwack, Sarah Swedler, Elissa Iny, Naomi Lipsky Cracower, Roz Fremeth, Ruth Tal, Corinne Rothman-Taylor, Shelley Goldenberg, and current President Fran Ross.

Each of these dedicated women has led a team of caring volunteers committed to enhancing the lives of Hillel Lodge residents. Their tireless fundraising has provided countless extras — from Shabbat flowers and holiday decorations to gifts, Bingo prizes, haircuts, blankets, new mattresses, specialized equipment, furniture, and even the creation of the Dream Garden.

"The Hillel Lodge Auxiliary plays an extraordinary role in enriching the lives of our residents," remarks Ted Cohen, CEO of Hillel Lodge. "Through their tireless fundraising efforts and generous volunteerism, they ensure that our residents not only have what they need, but also experience the special moments, comforts, and connections that truly make life meaningful."

The Auxiliary Tea: A Taste of Tradition
One beloved annual event was the Auxiliary Tea — a highly anticipated community gathering. These events featured fashion shows, musical entertainment, dancing, and elegantly set tables with polished silver, sandwiches, and pastries. The teas also served as an opportunity to honour dedicated volunteers whose contributions made a lasting impact.

What Do Residents Think?
Resident Marlyn Lerner shares her enthusiasm: "The Auxiliary is fabulous… they’re doing a wonderful job." She especially enjoys the Bingo, adding: "If they ever stop running it, I’ll be terribly upset! I go for the enjoyment and the callers, particularly Evelyn Monson… she and the others are always joking. The flowers are wonderful… they make me feel so good, especially in the winter."

Long-time community builder and Lodge resident Morris Schachnow also praises the Auxiliary: "My experience with the Auxiliary is that they do a lot for the Lodge. In contrast, a resident who came here from Toronto said that their home didn’t have the same kind of support. We are fortunate to have the Auxiliary and the Foundation helping with the many things the Lodge needs. I have nothing but good things to say."

The Great Games Event: Fun with Purpose
When COVID-19 shut down the Lodge and so many other community activities from 2020 to 2023, the Auxiliary’s popular teas were discontinued. However, the Telethon continued, with volunteer callers beginning each May.

Post-COVID, Auxiliary members sought a new project to engage the community and support Lodge residents. The first annual Great Games Event became that vehicle — a lively afternoon of bridge, mahjong, canasta, and other games, complemented by raffle prizes and delicious food from Creative Kosher Catering.

Games Day Chair Aliza Gauzas reflected on its origins: "The year was 2023. Was it time to gather a large group again? We were so excited that the Games Day event was sold out! And then the horrific day of October 7 turned our world upside down. Should we cancel? We forged ahead — and it became not only a successful fundraiser, but a day of emotional support for many, and an opportunity to see old friends in person for the first time in a very long time."

Following its success, the event grew even stronger in 2024, with attendance increasing by 25%. A silent auction was added, and delectable treats were generously donated by Cater4U.

Now entering its third year, the next Great Games Event will take place on November 2 at Kehillat Beth Israel — and is expected to sell out once again. Save the date!

Passion and Purpose: What Drives Auxiliary Members?
Auxiliary President Fran Ross explains: "Auxiliary members are all volunteers who want to have a positive effect on the lives of residents. Their dedication, enthusiasm and creativity keep us energized and forward-thinking. We all know that provincial funding is never sufficient, so we canvass the whole community to raise money for many important projects.

It is a calling more than a charity effort — we see the residents as an extension of our own family. My mother, Helen Fleming, spent two excellent years at the Lodge, and that motivated me to become involved. We love participating in Lodge activities and listening to resident and staff feedback so we can make an even bigger impact."

Long-time member Monica Stein adds: "From the moment I was invited to join the Auxiliary in 2007, I knew I was entering something special. The devotion of the ‘sisters of the Auxiliary’ was an eye-opener — this incredible team puts their heart into everything they do.

My connection to the Lodge is deeply personal. My beloved mother-in-law, Rose Stein, was a resident at Hillel Lodge for many years. One of the most humbling moments was receiving the Thelma Steinman Direct Service Award in 2020. It’s a privilege to give back to a place that has meant so much to my family."

Former Auxiliary President Shelley Goldenberg became involved when her late father was a resident. "I saw firsthand the compassionate and friendly care he and all residents received daily in their new home. It became my commitment to enrich the lives of all residents.

In recent years we’ve funded many projects — including lap blankets crocheted by volunteers for Mothers’ and Fathers’ Days. What better way to honour your mother and father!"

Shelley has served as Telethon Chair, VP, President, and now helps coordinate the Games Event and Mahjong card purchases. She was humbled to receive the Thelma Steinman Award in 2021–2022. "The residents and their well-being remain our focus today."

Former President Naomi Lipsky Cracower recalls her first Auxiliary experience in 1972: "I witnessed members enthusiastically planning the Telethon. What really impacted me was seeing the pleasure residents derived from our interaction as we served them apple juice and cookies. Forty-five years later, I’m thankful for my continued involvement in this state-of-the-art long-term care facility."

Embracing the Future: A New Generation of Members
Several new volunteers have joined the Auxiliary this year: Gina Grant (now Treasurer), Deborah Sussman-Silverman, Marcia Cantor, Linda Lax, and Sylvia Aikins.

As older members retire, it is vital that younger women bring fresh ideas, energy, and caring to sustain the Auxiliary’s mission for future generations.

If you or someone you know would like to join, email President Fran Ross at franross10@gmail.com or Vice-President Roz Fremeth at rfremeth@rogers.com. We would love to welcome you!

-- Shelley Arron-Cohen is the Auxiliary of Communications at Hillel Lodge