A Childhood Connection

Stephen Meli credits his involvement with Los Angeles Jewish Health to the big brother he met through the Big Brothers Big Sisters program as a child. The “brothers” stayed in touch. When Stephen was in his early 30s, his “Big” introduced him to the Home.

“I had no idea that something like this existed,” Stephen says. “As a young person, I wasn’t aware of facilities for senior citizens, especially those seniors with meager financial means. Once I learned about the Home and its different facilities, it really hit home.”

Stephen’s family had limited finances when he was growing up. He had a single mom who was raising two kids while working full time. Services from nonprofit organizations like United Way made all the difference for his family.

“When I saw there was something like LAJH for senior citizens, I knew I wanted to get involved,” Stephen says.

Stephen joined The Executives, a support group dedicated to enhancing residents’ quality of life and care. He first donated his time and later his treasure by including a gift to the Home in his trust.

“As an Executive, I knew I was doing something good, and the Home was doing something good,” Stephen says. “Now, having gone through the experience of my mom joining the Home as a resident, I more fully understand how the Home delivers a positive quality of life.”

As a financial advisor, Stephen believes in the power of planning. That’s why he chose to make a future gift to the Home while in his 40s. You can start your legacy of giving today. Contact Aaron Levinson at aaron.levinson@jha.org or (818) 757-4416 to learn more.