Our Story, Our Why
“Sayva means wisdom, sagacity, depth. According to the Talmud, it is a quality that comes in our later years. Unlike American culture, Jewish tradition never saw old age as a time of diminishment, disability and loss. The old were never retired, removed or isolated. The Jewish tradition recognized that elders possess a capacity to see life from higher perspectives. The tradition honored and celebrated the unique contributions of elders to our collective life. This is an ideal we can embrace as the foundation of a new initiative in our community.
The goal of Sayva is to make Later Adulthood joyful, interesting and purposeful – a time of life to be celebrated and anticipated, not dreaded or denied. More than accumulating programs, we aim to create a new culture for this time of life, in the same way that American culture once developed a pattern and a plan for adolescence. This new culture of Later Adulthood would be characterized by its own developmental tasks, and offer its own special opportunities, experiences and values. Our objective is to launch a network that will generate this new culture, embracing people in their Later Adulthood, and offer them a way of life to be celebrated.”
Excerpt Rabbi Ed Feinstein, SAYVA Founder
This initiative is made possible by the generous support of the Jewish Community Foundation (JCF) of Los Angeles, with Valley Beth Shalom serving as the fiscal partner.
Click here to learn more about the JCF grant in their press release
Our Mission
SAYVA enriches the lives of Jewish older adults in the San Fernando Valley by uniting synagogues and organizations in a collaborative regional network. Our goal is to create a true community, a Kehillah, transforming this stage of life into a vibrant journey of joy, purpose, and engagement. We provide innovative resources and opportunities that enhance well-being and foster meaningful connections, ensuring seniors feel empowered and valued.
*Network partners include HaMakom, Kol Tikvah, LA Jewish Health (Fountainview), Temple Ahavat Shalom, Temple Judea, Temple Ramat Zion, and Valley Beth Shalom. This initiative is made possible by the generous support of the Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles, with Valley Beth Shalom serving as the fiscal partner.