The SHAI Senior Program has worked worked for more than 22 years tirelessly to provide a place for our parents and grandparents to come together. Under the leadership of SHAI board member Mrs. Parvaneh Khodadadian, the continued support of generous donors, and a wonderful cohort of compassionate volunteers, SHAI Senior Social Center continues to grow and thrive. They have created an atmosphere where our seniors get nurtured and fed in body, mind and soul.

The last six months have been filled with special programming that has invigorated our program with joy and laughter, singing and dancing. Birthdays are celebrated every month. As Mrs.Khodadadian says, no one mentions the year, it is purely a monthly celebration of life. They had a wonderful day trip to Steppingstone Park. The park was beautifully transformed for the Autumn and we provided transportation for our seniors to enjoy the fresh, crisp weather, a beautiful meal and music. Chanukah was celebrated with lights and presents for everyone. “We wished for lights to be shining on everyone’s life, their homes and for their minds to always be bright.” It is always a special treat when Tania Eshaghoff comes to play piano. She encourages the seniors to sing along, many even take to the microphone and sing alongside her playing, while others dance.

A visit from the famous Iranian calligrapher and poet Ali Dowlatshahi was truly one of the highlights of the Senior Center. The artist, well into his 90’s himself, recited his poetry, shared his artwork and was showered with love and admiration from all who were there, including many elected officials. Another festive event was “Beautiful Hat Day” with judging of the best male hat done by the women and the best female hat judged by the men. As you can imagine, the day was filled with so much fun and laughter for everyone there.

The entertainment continued with the holiday of Purim. Our Center was filled with Kings and Queens of Persia, joyously acknowledging our Persian heritage and connection to the holiday. Most recently, we celebrated Nowruz. The room was packed with over 120 people, a beautiful Haft Sin table was the centerpiece, while crowd favorite Emanuel the DJ entertained them all.

Our seniors come to be together. The joy on their faces, the smiles, the conversations about their common histories, as well as their lives today are the cornerstone of this Center. Through the constant commitment made by SHAI, we have created an inviting, joyous place for our most treasured members.