Michael Shapiro – The 2017 Edward “Teddy” Cohen Kosher Meals on Wheels Award
After thirty years of hard work with the U.S. Navy, Michael Shapiro was approaching his next phase of life… retirement. He was planning out how to fulfill his time when he was encouraged by Marty Lamonoff and Randy Bronstein, two longtime Kosher Meals on Wheels volunteers, to consider helping deliver meals for Jewish Family Service. This advice was well received and Michael has been delivering meals for almost three years now.
When asked what continues to inspire his interest in Kosher Meals on Wheels (KMOW), Michael explained that he likes the clients. He has gotten to know them well and enjoys the interaction with them. Michael expressed that the most rewarding part of this volunteer work is the reaction that he receives from people when he arrives with their meal. The recipients of these meals are truly appreciative for this service. Michael enjoys conversing with the people on his delivery route. He remarked that he has felt sad after someone has passed away on his weekly schedule. The KMOW Program provides nourishment to those in need of assistance with food preparation, but it also feeds the soul for both the volunteer and the recipient. Michael remarks that by delivering Kosher Meals on Wheels, he is helping people who may not be able to get out for a meal. “I might be the only person they see that day.” Also, he knows this is helping JFS because it can sometimes be challenging to find volunteers. “I can’t give a lot of money to JFS, so this is my way of giving back.”
Michael feels that the future of KMOW is very important. “It’s a service that JFS provides to the Harrisburg area, to both the Jewish & non-Jewish community. It’s important that we, as Jews, all bond as a group to help Jewish people from the county, as well as others in need.” When questioned how to inspire others to feel the passion he does for KMOW, Michael stated “It’s a long life, but no one knows how long… if you can find some time, put your name down as a volunteer.”
Michael would like to be remembered as quietly as possible. He would like to acknowledge that his parents were lifelong Harrisburgers and members of Chisuk Emuna. Michael cares about his clients, even the ones he has never met. He keeps a shovel in his car every winter and if there is a need, he will clear the individual’s driveway or sidewalk knowing that it may be the only time someone is available to help out. He truly cares about the people we serve at JFS. And this is why he is being recognized with the 2017 Edward “Teddy” Cohen Kosher Meals on Wheels award. Michael, thank you for three years of hard work and dedication to the Kosher Meals on Wheels Program.
Larry Freedman – The 2017 Edward “Teddy” Cohen Kosher Meals on Wheels Award
Larry Freedman is no stranger to the Harrisburg Jewish Community. He has been involved in the community throughout his life. But after retiring three years ago, he was looking for something to occupy his time so he wouldn’t go “stir crazy” at home. After talking to Herman Minkoff, a longtime volunteer for Kosher Meals on Wheels, he decided to give Jewish Family Service a call to inquire about volunteering for the program. Larry started off delivering meals once a week. It seemed to be the right fit for him with keeping him busy. Eventually, he increased his time and has been delivering three times per week for more than a year. Larry seems to really enjoy the time he puts in when delivering meals. When asked what inspires his interest in the Kosher Meals on Wheels Program, he responded, “I like to have contact with the individual…I enjoy talking to the people, getting to know them better.” Larry feels that the most rewarding part of his experience doing this kind of volunteer work is “the knowledge that in some small way you are helping people who can’t drive or get out for a meal.”
Larry feels that the most significant impact on our community that he would want to see as a result from his volunteerism is to make sure there are always enough volunteers for the program. ‘They would undoubtedly find it rewarding if they gave it a try,’ observes Larry. He feels that the future of the KMOW program is very important. “There will always be a need for KMOW. I don’t know what people would do if they didn’t have this service?” Delivering meals is important to Larry because “not only are you doing a good thing, but it gives me a fulfilling way to spend my time.”
Larry always has a very friendly, caring way about him. He is always willing to go the extra mile when he is able to and has tried to teach his own grandchildren the significance of doing this kind of a mitzvah. Over the summer, Larry brought his grandson along to deliver meals with him. And when his family was visiting from Israel, he brought them along as well, to exemplify the importance of passing on spiritual knowledge and cultural traditions from generation to generation (L’Dor Vador). This shows how much Larry cares about his work for Jewish Family Service. He wants his grandchildren to benefit from learning the experience of doing mitzvot.
Larry would like to be remembered as someone who tries to treat people the same way that he would want to be treated. He’s a humble man who feels uncomfortable in the spotlight. He would volunteer regardless of the recognition. Nonetheless, is grateful for this honor. “It’s always pleasant to get an award even if you don’t think you are deserving of it,” says Larry. Jewish Family Service is thankful for having a volunteer as dedicated as Larry to make sure the KMOW program continues to thrive. We would like to present him with the 2017 Edward “Teddy” Cohen Kosher Meals on Wheels award for his dedication and devotion to helping our older adults in the Harrisburg community.
