It was an evening of gratitude and mutual appreciation as more than 500 members of the DOROT community came together virtually on the evening of June 3, 2021 to celebrate our 45th anniversary and pay special tribute to those who worked tirelessly to innovate and transform DOROT programming during the pandemic year.
Thank you to all who have already made a gift to support DOROT's critical work. A special thank you to DOROT's Board of Directors for pledging a $50,000 matching donation, in effect until Friday, June 11. Any donation made between now and then will be matched dollar for dollar. Don't miss this chance to double your impact - CLICK HERE to donate.
Ari Melber, anchor of MSNBC’s The Beat with Ari Melber, served as the evening’s host, sharing personal reflections on the importance of DOROT's mission of social connection over the past year and dropping a few of his signature hip-hop lyric references.
Joining Melber for an intimate conversation was Dr. Ruth Westheimer, nonagenarian behavioral therapist, author of 44 books and media personality who may best be known for having pioneered talking about sex on radio and television. Dr. Ruth shared advice for maintaining connection and an optimistic outlook even during the darkest times, drawing on her own personal story and events of the past year during the pandemic. Watch New Friends Ari Melber & Dr. Ruth in Conversation HERE.
The benefit honored several members of the DOROT community who have contributed in countless ways during our 45-year history, including:
Robert Brajer, 82, a Holocaust survivor who quickly recognized how life-affirming DOROT’s programs can be (Robert became a bit of a celebrity when he and his pre-COVID Friendly Visiting partner Ben Goldstein talked about their friendship on CNN earlier this year). Watch Robert's story HERE.
Leah Hetzfield, 84, who spent her time in isolation participating in an astounding 400 Onsite@Home Zoom programs! Watch Leah's story HERE.
Jerry and Jack Hattem, father and son DOROT volunteers, who epitomize the intergenerational connection that is at the core of DOROT’s work. Learn more about the Hattem's story HERE.
To cap off the evening, there was a special tribute to DOROT's tireless, dedicated staff, including the premiere of a new video tribute highlighting the meaningful relationships between staff and older adults. Watch the Staff Video Tribute HERE.
Thank you again to everyone who has already donated. CLICK HERE to make a donation and help us reach the $50,000 matching pledge.
We can't wait to see you next year - in person!