After seeing both food waste and food insecurity in their community, Simon and Aleeza Berman started Offer Kindness to connect the two challenges. Through a network of volunteers, homeowners, farmers, food banks, and community organizations, they rescue surplus fruit that would otherwise go to waste and distribute it to individuals and families in need throughout California’s Central Valley. Their work transforms excess harvests into nourishment, strengthens community connections, and demonstrates how simple acts of kindness can create meaningful change
California
Music Mends Minds
More than six million Americans live with Alzheimer’s. Until recently Irwin Rosenstein ( z’l) was one of them. More than a statistic, he was Carol’s beloved husband and inspiration. Seven years ago, when she saw the positive effect playing the piano had on him, she brought together the 5th Dementia Band, and the rest is history. A neurodegenerative diagnosis results in depression, anxiety and feelings of isolation for both the patient and their loved ones. Based on scientific research, MMM’s innovative therapy and musical support groups — as well as 20 bands across the US and overseas — improve quality of life for all.
During the pandemic MMM pivoted to online Zoom sessions, vastly increasing the number of participants. “What the world needs now is music. Music is medicine for the mind,” says Carol. “We can bring such happiness and hope in this moment of relative despair.”
Our funds help underwrite the cost of a music therapist.
