Alan Calvin-How JFCS Changed My Life: Stories from Our Community

Published 19 hours ago• 2 minute read

Alan Calvin—How JFCS Changed My Life: Stories from Our Community

Dear Friends,

Allen Calvin, PhD, President Emeritus, Palo Alto University

When my wife, Dorothy, and I moved into JFCS’ Rhoda Goldman Plaza ten months ago, we marveled that we had become beneficiaries of an organization we have known and admired for so long.

Our connection to Jewish Family and Children’s Services (JFCS) spans decades, beginning during my long tenure as President of Palo Alto University. Influenced by distinguished leaders like Tad Taube, Marcia Goldman, Rabbi Stephen Pearce, and Gary Shapiro, our university proudly partnered with JFCS on mental health initiatives and professional training.

The collaboration between the university and JFCS became even more meaningful when Anita Friedman, one of my finest former students, became Executive Director of JFCS. I have watched JFCS flourish under her leadership and address so many critical community needs with vision and compassion.

Knowing JFCS’ values and commitment to excellence, Rhoda Goldman Plaza quickly became our top choice when it came time for Dorothy and me to move into a senior residence. Still, deciding to leave our home wasn’t easy. Like many, we resisted the change for as long as we could. Now, we’re so happy to be here. The dedication and genuine caring of the staff make this a wonderful place to live. That we are in such good hands has given our family real peace of mind.

Our growing family in 1954: I was an assistant professor at Michigan State University, while Dorothy, holding our daughter, was pursuing her graduate studies there.

Picture courtesy Calvin family.

At ages 97 and 95, there are many things Dorothy and I can no longer do on our own. We rely on wonderful professionals from JFCS’ Personal Assistant Services to help with everything from opening boxes to preparing our laundry to solving tech issues. Between Rhoda Goldman Plaza and the personal assistants—two separate services that work together seamlessly—we live comfortably and with dignity.

Our Jewish tradition teaches us to be there for one another and take care of each other. Dorothy and I are thankful every day for the exemplary service and warm community we have found at Rhoda Goldman Plaza.

Allen, and his wife, Dorothy Calvin, EdD, are distinguished community leaders, known for their commitment to supporting education, human rights, and peace.