According to Jewish tradition Bikur Cholim – visiting the sick – is a core Jewish value for which the reward is felt by both giver and receiver. Several Connecticut Jewish agencies are offering the opportunity for community members to learn how to participate in this important mitzvah.

1.) Bikur Cholim Training – The Greenwich Hospital Spiritual Care Department In partnership with Jewish Family Services of Greenwich, is training volunteers to bring joy into the lives of hospital patients in need of a friendly smile, a kind word, and a reminder that someone cares. Those completing the Bikur Cholim Program volunteer to visit patients at Greenwich Hospital for one hour every other week. Barbara Salop is a founding member of this group and is available to speak to anyone interested in the Bikur Cholim Training Program. New classes will open soon. For information call Barbara Salop at  bdsalop@gmail.com or (203) 496-1604.

2.) Jewish Senior Services Hospice Volunteer Training Chaifetz Family Hospice will hold a two-day Hospice Volunteer Training Program for anyone interested in giving their time and compassion to terminally ill patients and their loved ones.  Training will be held at Jewish Senior Services, 4200 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, on Sundays, Feb. 5 and Feb. 12, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Training materials and meals will be provided free of charge. In addition, Jewish Senior Services offers hospice volunteer training, for those who would like to visit with patients in palliative stages of care. For more information, contact Ellen Ashkins at (203) 365-6417 or eashkins@jseniors.org.