Geriatric Care Manager and Senior Fitness Specialist Laila Vehvilainen, MS, MPH, NASM-CPT, CDP (third from right) receives a grant on behalf of JFS from representatives of the Rotary Club of Framingham, including former JFS Board member Dr. F. Javier Cevallos (second from right).

JFS is proud to announce that we have received a generous grant from the Rotary Club of Framingham in support of the JFS Memory Café program!

The grant was presented at a recent Rotary Club gathering, where JFS had the opportunity to share more about the impact of our Memory Cafés for older adults experiencing memory loss and their care partners. We are deeply grateful to the Rotary Club for recognizing the importance of this work and investing in programs that foster joy, dignity, and connection in our community.

Supporting Joy and Belonging

JFS Memory Cafés provide welcoming, stigma-free spaces where individuals living with memory changes—and those who care for them—can gather for meaningful social engagement. Through music, art, conversation, and cultural programming, participants experience connection, laughter, and shared understanding.

Grants like this one from the Rotary Club of Framingham make it possible for us to continue offering high-quality programming that enriches lives and reduces isolation. Community partnerships are essential to sustaining this work, and we are honored to stand alongside civic leaders who believe in caring for older adults and families navigating memory loss.

Join Us March 11 at Temple Beth Am

We invite you to experience the warmth and joy of our Memory Café firsthand at our upcoming gathering:

📅 March 11, 2026, 12:30pm
📍 Temple Beth Am, Framingham

This special Memory Café will feature Tony Funches, former lead vocalist of the legendary “50s group The Platters. Tony will entertain attendees with music and humor, serenading guests with beloved early Rock ’n’ Roll hits that are sure to spark memories, smiles, and maybe even a little dancing.

Music has a powerful ability to unlock memory and emotion. Familiar songs can transport us, reconnect us to meaningful moments, and create shared experiences across generations. We are thrilled to offer this lively and heartwarming program to our Memory Café community.

A light lunch will be provided by sponsor Brookdale Cushing Park, Framingham at 12:30pm and the concert will begin at 1:00pm.

Thank You to Our Community Partners

The Rotary Club of Framingham’s support reflects a broader community commitment to ensuring that older adults and their families remain connected, valued, and supported. Together, we are building a stronger, more compassionate Metrowest—one gathering, one song, one smile at a time.


Reserve Your Spot Today

If you or someone you love is living with memory loss, or if you are a care partner seeking connection and support, we warmly invite you to join us on March 11.

This event is offered at no charge but pre-registration is required. Call 508-875-3100 x 550 or email memorycafe@jfsmw.org to register.

Sign up today to attend the JFS Memory Café at Temple Beth Am and enjoy an afternoon of music, laughter, and community.