Heritage Florida Jewish News - Central Florida's Independent Jewish Voice

Just about every Monday, residents of Savannah Court and Cove Assisted Living in Maitland enjoy an Ice Cream Social and play a group card game called "Lotto." It's a fun program of the Jewish Pavilion that's run by volunteers, and it's a great way for residents to socialize and be entertained. Residents of all backgrounds and faiths are welcomed, and for many it is a highlight of their week.

Savannah Court marketing relations director, Meg Wilson, and other staff wanted to find a way to get residents and others involved in giving back to the Jewish Pavilion in honor of its many years of programs and visits. After some brainstorming, they hit upon a gift basket raffle that Savannah Court residents would be able to participate in as well as others.

To make the basket enticing, the staff decided the main prizes would be gift certificates for dinner and a movie, plus treats such as a wine bottle, chocolates and gourmet snacks. Keeping in mind that a resident might win the basket, "We were looking for the nicest places in the area for dinner and a movie so the seniors wouldn't have to go far," said Wilson. They decided on a $100 gift card to Antonio's Italian Restaurant in Maitland and a $45 to Regal Cinemas, which has a location in nearby Winter Park.

"Our residents were really excited about the basket," said Wilson. It was kept at Savannah Court's front desk for several weeks, and many residents wanted to support the Jewish Pavilion and bought tickets. Other Pavilion supporters also bought tickets, which were $1 each or $5 for 10.

In the end, Penny Goldstein, a member of the Friends of the Jewish Pavilion, won the gift basket. The raffle raised $200, and many of the residents of Savannah Court had an opportunity to show their appreciation for the Jewish Pavilion.