Antoinette has a knack for creating friendships. In fact, it’s her job. Like a magician pulling a rabbit out of a hat, she has the unique talent of pairing two strangers together. And as the coordinator for the JFS Friendly Visitor Program (Bikkur Holim), it’s a skill she uses every day to change lives.
A component of our Aging Care services, the Friendly Visitor Program matches a caring volunteer with an older adult to offer companionship and prevent social isolation. Matches are made based on shared interests, hobbies, and values – plus the magic touch of Antoinette. Friendly Visitors aren’t caregivers or housekeepers. They’re a connection to community when getting out of the house becomes a challenge for older adults.
Enter Joann and Golan.
Joann is tiny – not even 5 feet tall — with a sharp New York attitude and a face that’s gathered 77 years of memories. Golan is a sociable 20-something who runs an online business and embraces the casual SoCal lifestyle. While they may not seem like the most obvious pairing, their friendship is a force to be reckoned with.
Joann developed terminal melanoma in 2017. What started out as a spot on her toe turned into endless doctor’s appointments and a heartbreaking diagnosis. After her husband passed away and her children moved across the country, she began to grow more isolated by the day. That’s when she reached out to the JFS Friendly Visitor program.
When Golan first came to Antoinette asking to be matched, she had a gut feeling that he’d be perfect for Joann. They both have inquisitive minds, love being active outdoors, and are warm-hearted in their approach to life. Eight months later, Joann and Golan still see each other every single week.
Some days are better than others. Joann’s cancer often limits her energy, so they can’t always play tourist in America’s Finest City. But that doesn’t keep these two apart.
“One day she wasn’t feeling well,” Golan explained. “So we just made a meal together and hung out. We weren’t meeting to fulfill an appointment on our calendars – we just wanted to see each other.”
For Joann, Golan brings an energy into her life that she hasn’t felt in years.
“He’s great company. We can always be open and honest with each other. I always look forward to his visits. If he was my son, he’d resent all the advice I give him!” Joann laughed. “But since we’re friends, we get along great.”
Although the two met through Antoinette’s matchmaking prowess, they have a relationship like any other pair of long-time friends.
As Joann’s cancer progresses, she knows she can rely on Golan to bring warmth and laughter into her weekly routine. That’s what the Friendly Visitor Program is all about; ensuring older adults have the compassion and community connections they need to age with dignity.
As for Golan? He seems to think he got the better half of the deal.
“Volunteering with Friendly Visitor is both a selfless and selfish thing to do. I think that is the most beautiful thing about helping others, is that in the end, it helps you.” - Golan
Become a JFS Friendly Visitor today!
Want to change a life? We're always looking for more people like Golan. Learn more about the JFS Friendly Visitor program.