Randi Cunningham shares how volunteering impacts her

The Jewish Pavilion provides many services to those living in elder-care communities, and among them is hosting Shabbat services at places like Oakmonte Village at Lake Mary.

Randi Cunningham, who has volunteered through the Jewish Pavilion at Oakmonte for six years, plays a role in making the services happen.

She first started volunteering in September 2016 following her dad's move from South Florida to Oakmonte's assisted-living facility. Cunningham said she didn't want him to move to Central Florida because of the lack of Jewish culture but credits the Jewish Pavilion for being there for him.

She began as back up Shabbat leader, but then became primary Shabbat leader once her father moved into the memory-care facility in January 2017.

One of Cunningham's favorite memories is when she returned to the memory-care facility for the first time since vaccinations had been completed. 

"One of the residents seemed very excited to see me and participate in the service," she said.

Another one of her favorite parts about volunteering is being able to see the residents singing Shabbat prayers and it coming back to them easily because they are familiar.

However, volunteering at a memory-care facility has unique challenges.

"It can be challenging to get everyone at the table," she said with a laugh. She also recognizes that often she is singing or speaking alone during the service.

Even after her father died, Cunningham continues to volunteer.

"It's a way to keep my father's memory alive, Shabbat was important to him," she said.

Not only is it a way for her to honor her father, she also does it because some residents may have family members who do not live close enough.

"If I were in that position, I would be happy my parents have the chance to observe Shabbat," she said.

Rayna Cohen is a senior at Florida Atlantic University.