Meet Ellen Gold
By Carol Sandler, JCS Volunteer
Growing up in New York, Ellen Gold learned the value of service by watching her parents volunteer within their community. She then continued the family tradition by becoming involved in her synagogue and other Jewish organizations. When she moved to Baltimore in the early 1990s with her husband and young son, she was eager to connect with the local Jewish community. After hearing about volunteer opportunities with Jewish Community Services (then Jewish Family Services) Mitzvah Mobility program, she gave it a try and found she really loved it. Driving and escorting clients to medical appointments appealed to her because of the flexibility of the program and the one-to-one interaction with those she drove. Drawing from her own experience of bringing her mother to doctor appointments “it was a way for me to give back and to pay it forward.”
In addition to driving clients, Ellen began visiting Ms. K, a woman around her same age who was homebound, as part of JCS’ Friendly Visitor program. Over the ten-plus years they’ve been in contact, they’ve discovered many interests in common. During their visits, they shared stories and talked about everything from books, movies, politics, growing up, family, friends, and more. Now, because the pandemic requires physical distancing, Ellen and Ms. K’s visits have become monthly phone calls. Ellen says: “The relationship has morphed into a beautiful friendship; I cherish the connection.”
In light of her dedication to the organization, Ellen was invited to join the board of JCS four years ago and continues to serve today. “Because of my long-time experience with JCS clients, my voice on the board comes from the vantage point of the people we serve. I can often talk about exactly how our services affect our clients because I see it and do it.”
In addition to her time at JCS, Ellen volunteers as a “baby cuddler” at Mount Washington Pediatric Hospital, is active at Beth El Congregation, and puts together meals at Moveable Feast.
Ellen says: “I’ve gotten more out of volunteering than I ever thought I would. I love meeting people and I learn something new from each one. I know there’s a need in our community for volunteers; there are so many easy and rewarding ways to assist. It doesn’t take a lot of time and it can be lifechanging for those you help and for you.”
Ellen is delighted that she can spend time with her son, daughter-in-law, 18-month-old granddaughter, Leni, and another son who all live in Baltimore. Her daughter is in New York and her mother resides in an assisted living facility nearby.
