Our Story
Smile On Seniors was founded in 2016. 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 – the first organisation in Australia to reach out specifically to Jewish seniors in non-Jewish facilities.
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 activities.
Our Values
Happiness
Positivity
Compassion
Kindness
Empathy
Creativity
Patience
Judaism and Spiritual Awareness
Chesed
Community
Our Beneficiaries
Jewish residents of non-Jewish Aged Care Facilities and their families.
Our Volunteers
Smile On Seniors prides itself on our ability to engage volunteers of all age groups, from very young children through to adults.
This intergenerational opportunity fosters a wonderful connection and creates an environment that provides perspective, entertainment, respect and understanding.
The Smile On Seniors Team
Rabbi Menachem Stern
Co-Director of Smile On Seniors
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.
Esther Stern
Co-Director of Smile On Seniors
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.
Adina Belfer
Program and Volunteer Co-ordinator
I’m the Program and Volunteer Coordinator at Smile on Seniors, bringing with me a background in teaching and studies in both Feuerstein methods and nursing. What I love most about this special organization is how we bring Jewish people together from all walks of life – there’s something magical about connecting different generations, sharing the joy of giving, celebrating Shabbat and holidays, and building lasting relationships in our community.
Esther Merel
Administration Officer
Before working for Smile On Seniors, I held an administrative role for another charity, and have also worked in another admin position in the past.
I love working for such a special organisation; the senior generation deserves the best, and it’s a privilege to be able to help bring a little extra joy to their lives.
Rabbi Avi Welis
Pastoral Care Assistant
I am honored to join Smile On Seniors and contribute to the mitzvah of chesed by supporting Jewish residents in aged care. Maintaining a connection to Yiddishkeit and Jewish traditions is essential for nurturing neshama (soul) and fostering a sense of belonging. This opportunity allows me to fulfill the Torah value of honoring our elders while bringing joy and comfort to their lives. I look forward to being part of this incredible initiative and helping ensure our seniors feel spiritually and emotionally supported.
Rabbi Jeff Turtletaub
Pastoral Care Assistant
I have a Masters in Rabbinic Lit, Rabbinic ordination, and worked in outreach for more than two decades. I have also been playing music for people since I was 12.
I love sharing the joy of music/Shabbat with the residents.
Yossi Salamon
Social Media Manager
With a degree in Visual Communication and Design and over 15 years of experience in advertising and marketing, I am passionate about what I do and thrive in dedicated teams.
Additionally, supporting seniors in my community is my heartfelt passion, driven by a deep love, respect, and a genuine desire to combat social isolation, fostering an inclusive environment where every senior feels valued and cherished.
Renata Zimbard
Outreach & Strategy Officer
I’m a cultural manager with experience leading programs and projects in the arts and community sectors. At Smile on Seniors, I support planning, communications, and fundraising efforts. I believe that caring for our elders and fostering intergenerational connections is a powerful way to strengthen our community.
Rabbi Jeff Turtletaub
Pastoral Care Assistant
I have a Masters in Rabbinic Lit, Rabbinic ordination, and worked in outreach for more than two decades. I have also been playing music for people since I was 12.
I love sharing the joy of music/Shabbat with the residents.
Shayna Cohen
Office Manager
As the Office Manager for Smile On Seniors, I have the rewarding opportunity to 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. Supporting their well-being is truly fulfilling work.