Source: Hiddur
Hiddur: The Center for Aging and Judaism is a transdenominational effort to transform the culture of later life and foster multi-generational community. Established in 2003 by the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College, Hiddur seeks to empower the growing number of Jews entering the second half of life to connect to lifelong learning and spiritual engagement, and contribute their wisdom and talent.
Hiddur is both an academic center and an activist center. Hiddur works with rabbis, synagogues, community organizations and older people themselves to foster lifelong learning (Torah), religious and spiritual engagement (avodah) and contribution of wisdom and talents to community (gemilut hasadim).
The Hiddur Center offers professional education on aging for rabbis, chaplains, cantors, social workers and other Jewish professionals at the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College campus in Wyncote, PA, and in cooperation with local organizations, training in several communities across the United States.
Hiddur also produces scholarly publications that probe Jewish tradition to find meaning and dignity in aging including "Gearing Up for the Age Wave: A Guide for Synagogues" highlights of a 2004 conference with leading scholars and practitioners from all four major movements which explored the "age wave" and its impact on synagogues.
Hiddur also produces spiritual resources for elders and caregivers, to bring meaning, connection and celebration such as"Sacred Seasons" designed to bring the meaning and solace of Sabbath and holidays to Jewish elders in residential settings. These materials are available as downloads from the website or as hard copy via mail.
Rabbi Dayle Friedman, Director of Hiddur, has recently published "Jewish Visions for Aging: A Professional Guide for Fostering Wholeness." volume which examines Jewish texts to offer ways for finding meaning, purpose and community within Jewish tradition.