An acronym for “Senior Mature Adults Retired Together,” SMART consistently elevates and redefines social connections for seniors who covet sophisticated social, cultural, and educational experiences as never before.
Under the direction of Julie Rockowitz, SMART engages, entertains, and energizes participants with high expectations. Our programs provide an unprecedented balance of fun, exploration, entertainment, and learning, including a speakers’ forum, theater and museum trips, cutting-edge fitness training, technology classes, informal chats on hot topics, and other unique opportunities.
Schmooze with the News
This lively bi-monthly moderated discussion includes subjects of current national and global interest. Topics are chosen by group members.
Silver Sneakers/Flex
Our hugely popular Silver Sneakers/Flex health and fitness program meets every Tuesday morning, with classes created and customized for seniors. Equipment includes exercise balls, stretch bands and free weights, and classes are generally covered by Medicare. Sessions are offered at a nominal $5 fee to non-Medicare participants.
Lunch & Learn
Lunch & Learn follows Silver Sneakers once a month. Members create and enjoy a delicious meal together, followed by prominent featured speakers who are Beth El members. The “Learn” segment may also include unique events, for example a video presentation by The Brooklyn Seltzer Museum, accompanied by expertly crafted homemade chocolate egg creams.
Unique Classes and Activities
SMART at Beth El continues to offer and host top-tier seminars at no charge. These include Westchester County’s free 6-week class entitled Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions; and Westchester Community College’s 4-session colloquium on Historical and Archeological Sites in Westchester. Future plans in this category include workshops like art/clay classes presented by Mobile Westchester Arts.
Weekly SMART Zoom
For those who prefer to meet virtually, our vibrant weekly Monday Zoom experiences include discussions, virtual tours, and guest speakers on topics including Al, Israel, world news, media, and more. Shari Baum, MSW, is our esteemed Zoom moderator from Partners in Caring/ Westchester Jewish Community Services.
Tech Time
Seniors are curious about using technology safely and to best advantage. Stay tuned for our new Tech Time sessions, focused on best practices for cell phone management.
Senior Hall of Fame Award
Every year at Beth El, we select and honor an outstanding group member for induction into Westchester County’s Senior Hall of Fame. Nominees must demonstrate contributions to enhancing the lives of other seniors. All of our six nominees have won this prestigious County-wide award!
SMART consistently seeks new ways to involve and amaze our members. If you have ideas to share, or are interested in joining us, email Julie Rockowitz at jrockowitz@bethelnr.org, or call 914-235-2700 X256.
For program times and dates please visit https://bethelnr.shulcloud.com/calendar .
*SMART at Beth El collaborates with DOROT Westchester, whose volunteers serve throughout the County.
*Also affiliated with the National Jewish Grandparents Network: https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/
Interested in joining? Contact Julie Rockowitz at jrockowitz@bethelnr.org
or 914-235-2700, extension 340.
