About us
Founded in 2016 by Rabbi Menachem and Esther Stern, Smile on Seniors was the first organisation in Australia to reach out specifically to Jewish seniors in non-Jewish aged care facilities.
Our story
After seeing the success of the programs they were creating for Jewish residents in non-Jewish aged care, Rabbi Menachem and his wife Esther took the leap and officially created Smile on Seniors.
Today, Smile on Seniors reaches more than 300 residents across 25 facilities in Melbourne.
Our mission
Ensuring senior members of our community maintain a positive emotional and spiritual connection to their Jewish identity, through a unique blend of intergenerational programs and pastoral care.
Jewish residents of non-Jewish aged care facilities, and their families.
We engage volunteers of all ages, from very young children through to adults. This intergenerational opportunity fosters a wonderful connection and creates an environment of perspective, entertainment, respect and understanding.
The people behind the visits, the programs and the packages.
Co-Director
I am the founder of the pastoral care and religious programs at Smile on Seniors. I have a Rabbinical ordination and over two decades of experience in outreach work. I really enjoy seeing how the seniors love and enjoy our programs, and I look forward to it every week and chag.
Co-Director
I am the founder of the intergenerational programs at Smile on Seniors. I really enjoy seeing the beautiful smiles of the seniors when they interact with the children.
Program Co-ordinator
I bring a background in teaching and studies in both Feuerstein methods and nursing. What I love most is how we bring Jewish people together from all walks of life: connecting generations, sharing the joy of giving, celebrating Shabbat and holidays, and building lasting relationships in our community.
Administration Officer
Before Smile on Seniors, I held administrative roles, including at another charity. The senior generation deserves the best, and it’s a privilege to help bring a little extra joy to their lives.
Pastoral Care Assistant
I am honoured to contribute to the mitzvah of chesed by supporting Jewish residents in aged care. A connection to Yiddishkeit and Jewish traditions nurtures the neshama and fosters a sense of belonging, and this role lets me honour our elders while bringing joy and comfort to their lives.
Volunteer Coordinator
I have a social work background and have previously worked with seniors in a similar setting. I really enjoy working for an organisation that allows seniors to express and explore their faith through various programs.
Social Media Manager
With a degree in Visual Communication and Design and over 15 years in advertising and marketing, I thrive in dedicated teams. Supporting seniors is my heartfelt passion: combating social isolation so every senior feels valued and cherished.
Outreach & Strategy Officer
I’m a cultural manager with experience leading programs in the arts and community sectors. I support planning, communications and fundraising, because caring for our elders and fostering intergenerational connections strengthens our community.
Pastoral Care Assistant
Joining Smile on Seniors has been one of the most meaningful decisions I’ve made. Everyone deserves connection, kindness and a reason to smile, especially our seniors, and I’m honoured to be part of that mission.
Pastoral Care Assistant
I grew up in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, inspired by the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s deep respect for seniors. There is something special about seeing a senior’s face light up as they reconnect with a Jewish tradition or a song they’ve known all their life.
Pastoral Care Assistant
I have a Masters in Rabbinic Literature, Rabbinic ordination, and more than two decades in outreach. I have been playing music for people since I was 12, and I love sharing the joy of music and Shabbat with the residents.
Office Manager
I work behind the scenes for an incredible organisation. Although my role is often in the background, it’s inspiring to see the positive impact we have on seniors’ lives every day.
