In Jewish life — whether one is deeply observant, culturally connected, or simply proud of heritage — there is a shared value deeply rooted in our tradition: honoring age, wisdom and experience.
Jewish teaching reminds us to respect those who have lived long lives, learned from history and carried values forward. That spirit was very much alive during my years in the nonprofit Jewish nursing home industry, where I witnessed extraordinary gratitude from families and residents. Their appreciation often translated into philanthropy — heartfelt expressions of thanks, dignity and community responsibility.
Norman Gildin. (Jennifer Gildin/Courtesy)
One particularly memorable experience involved a spirited 103-year-old resident named Saul. He was one of about a dozen centenarians in our care — remarkable men and women whose lives spanned wars, social change, technological revolutions and personal triumphs. Their presence alone was a gift.
In gratitude for the care he received, Saul and his affluent family contributed generously to our organization and donated a beautifully crafted display case to be placed at the entrance of our Activities Hall. It showcased Judaica artwork and antiques, adding warmth, elegance and meaning to our home. Gifts like this do more than beautify — they tell a story of appreciation and legacy.
At the dedication ceremony, family, friends, dignitaries and residents gathered to honor Saul’s generosity. There were heartfelt tributes, proclamations, poetry, and a blessing from our chaplain. And in classic Jewish fashion, humor brought the house down. When the rabbi concluded with the familiar good wish so often said in Jewish circles — “May you live until 120 years!” — Saul slowly stood, smiled and replied:
“But Rabbi, that’s only 17 more years!”
The room erupted in laughter, capturing perfectly the resilience, joy and perspective that so many elders carry with them.
But this story is more than a charming anecdote. It highlights an increasingly important subject: centenarian fundraising.
Today, more than 101,000 Americans are 100 years old or older, and many, along with their prosperous families, remain engaged, vibrant, curious and generous. Instead of viewing centenarians only as recipients of care, we increasingly recognize them as contributors, philanthropists and community builders.
Centenarians as givers
Across the country, many centenarians continue to make meaningful contributions. They support causes, champion programs and invest in the future. Consider Virginia McLaurin, who joyfully danced with the Obamas at age 106 and later supported youth mentoring, or Edith Renfrow Smith, now 110, whose advocacy for education continues to inspire.
For fundraisers, reaching centenarian donors requires sensitivity, patience and respect. Many possess significant life assets — both financial and emotional — and often feel a deep sense of purpose in giving back. Effective engagement includes:
• Personal outreach that honors their life story
• Clear communication and accessible materials
• Conversations grounded in legacy and impact
Organizations such as the National Centenarian Awareness Project (NCAP), founded by Lynn Peters Adler, highlight this beautifully by celebrating centenarians not simply as honorees, but as meaningful participants in philanthropy.
Supporting centenarians in need
Equally important is raising funds on behalf of centenarians who face challenges. Some experience financial pressure, health concerns or loneliness. For example, the nonprofit Centenarians of Oklahoma has celebrated and supported over 2,700 residents aged 100 and older, reminding them they are valued and not forgotten. Gloria Helmuth, the director, expressed it movingly: “I just feel it’s important that they know somebody cares about them.”
Fundraising efforts for centenarians help provide:
• Quality care and housing
• Medical resources
• Mobility support
• Programs that reduce isolation and honor dignity
These efforts speak to universal Jewish values shared across the spectrum of Jewish life — compassion, responsibility and respect for elders.
Ethical and practical considerations
With this work comes responsibility. States like Florida, New York and California — all home to large Jewish populations — also have among the highest numbers of centenarians, making this work especially relevant. Ethical safeguards must always be in place to ensure clarity, independence, and protection for aged donors, particularly those facing cognitive decline.
And storytelling matters. The lives of centenarians are powerful narratives of perseverance, humor, wisdom and humanity. These stories inspire younger generations while strengthening communities.
Living legacies
Many centenarians leave remarkable philanthropic legacies. Dr. Gladys McGarey, at 103, continues championing holistic wellness initiatives. Lucille Horn — who survived premature birth thanks to early medical innovation — spent her later years advocating for neonatal care, helping countless children.
Closer to home, I think fondly of Marvin G., who lived to 106 and remained engaged with my organization until the very end. I once visited him in Sarasota and watched him play weekly poker with eight fellow centenarians — including his 106-year-old lady friend! Their laughter, energy, and spirit said everything about living fully — and giving generously — at any age.
A shared responsibility — and a blessing
In the end, centenarian fundraising isn’t only about dollars. It is about meaning, gratitude, honor and continuity. It reminds us that age does not diminish purpose, and that generosity does not retire.
It reinforces values held dearly across every expression of Jewish life — Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, traditional, cultural and secular alike — that we care for those who cared for us, and we celebrate those who continue to give in body, spirit, wisdom and philanthropy.
Of course, a bit of humor helps us along the way. When another centenarian turned 106, someone blessed him with the words, “May you live to 120!” He smiled and asked: “And when I get there, what will you wish me then?” His friend answered, “Have a nice day.”
Because in Judaism, every day of life — at every age — is a gift worth celebrating.
Norman B. Gildin is the author of two books on nonprofit fundraising, “Learn From My Experiences” and “Fundraising Insights for Nonprofits.” For more information, visit normangildin.com.
