Born and raised in Brooklyn, Lenore Friedman has worn many hats in her life. Daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, friend.
But to many she is known as the person who runs two of the best senior centers in town at the Senior Citizens League of Flatbush, where she is the executive director of the Senior Citizen’s League of Flatbush, and the Senior Citizen’s League of Flatbush, Midwood Branch.
No matter who you speak with about Friedman, certain adjectives come up again and again. She is described as warm, caring, giving, and an incredible organizer — the key trait that makes her so good at her life’s work.
Friedman and her staff provide senior center members with an abundance of activities, all of which they plan and execute. Whether it’s exercise classes, music programs, discussion groups, karaoke sessions, weekly talent shows, English for Speakers of Other Languages classes, bridge and mahjong groups, serving daily lunches and homebound and weekend meals, as well as welcoming autistic adults four days a week to help out around the centers, Friedman’s passion and dedication result in her members leading rich and fulfilling lives in their golden years.
Some might think that planning all those activities is an insurmountable task, but Friedman says it is the favorite part of her job.
“Along with the warm socialization,” she adds.
Interaction between herself and her members is definitely a key part of both her life and that of the seniors she works with and for.
“It has been an amazing experience to watch the members evolve and grow over the past 40-plus years,” says the Woman of Distinction. “I am constantly inspired and amazed by their energy, intellectualism, and desire to engage the world.”
Aside from all the time and energy she puts into improving the quality of life for her members, Friedman has also spent her life being heavily involved in the community, including acting as president of a parent-teacher association and co-chairing her high-school reunion.
Active members Pearl Rubin and Marilyn Batchelor both expressed admiration at Friedman’s level of involvement.
“Lenore will always come to your aid when you have a problem and try to straighten it out,” says Batchelor. “She takes interest in you personally, and takes time to talk to you every day.”
Rubin adds: “I know Lenore for 34 years. Marvelous human being. Knows each person by name. Whatever she does is better than excellent. Better than marvelous.”
No director works harder than Friedman, claims William “David” Binn, who nominated her for this award.
“Lenore gives seniors a home away from home and gives the best party you’ll ever have,” he says.
The two centers she runs are a source of comfort and joy for Friedman.
“Because of the seniors’ warmth and appreciation, and the loving dynamic between our staff and our members, the centers are my home away from home,” she shares. “I truly look forward to going to work every day. It has been an amazing experience to watch the thousands of members I’ve met evolve and grow during the last 40-plus years.”
Neighborhood: Flatbush and Midwood.
Occupation: Executive Director.
Company: Senior Citizens League of Flatbush.
Claim to Fame: “Making our centers a warm and welcoming home to people of all backgrounds, races, and religions so that they feel a part of our ‘one family,’ as well as our memorable, awesome parties and special events (according to our members)!”
Favorite Brooklyn Place: My two wonderful centers.
Woman I Admire: “Eleanor Roosevelt because she was one of the most influential American women of the 20th century.”
Motto: “Treat your family like friends and your friends like family.”
