More than 280 guests attended the Third Annual Friendship Circle Luncheon at the Old Westbury Golf & Country Club on May 11. The luncheon, which supports Sid Jacobson JCC's social adult program netted over $110,000. Launched more than five years ago with a grant from the UJA-Federation of NY, the "Friendship Circle" offers supervised social recreational programs to those aged 60+ who are functionally or memory impaired as the result of aging, stroke, early Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease or other related conditions. Denise Silverberg, founder of the Friendship Circle Luncheon and this year's honoree, chaired this successful event with Ruth Slade and Dayle Katz.

Silverberg Family -- Abbe Sparks, Robert Silverberg, Denise Silverberg, Jacquelyn, Jeremy and Marc Silverberg

"The need for this type of programming continues to grow at a very rapid pace," says Connie Wasserman, LCSW, director of senior services. "The support we saw at the luncheon demonstrates that the public is beginning to recognize, not only the importance of a program like this, but the high quality of the Friendship Circle."

Standing: Iris Rabinowitz, Susan Bender, Denise Silverberg, Beverly Gelb, Judy Rechler, (Seated) Susan Feinstein, Connie Wasserman, Dr. Max Gomez and Angela Anton.

Denise Silverberg is the driving force behind the fundraising efforts for the Friendship Circle. Her willingness to gather continued support for the program helped to make it the success it is today. The funds raised allow us to maintain a fifth day of programming and add some Sunday respite for families of participants.

Guests were received in a cocktail reception and entertained by pianist Rose Marie Guzzo followed by lunch. The special guest speaker was Dr. Max Gomez, health and science editor of NBC Channel 4. In his speech, Dr. Gomez highlighted the importance of preventative measures to ensure our health as we age. The fashion show presentation by ESCADA Americana Manhasset was followed by a raffle for exciting prizes that included a $1,000 shopping spree from Americana Manhasset, plasma TV, Gold Coast Package from the Roslyn Claremont Hotel, Judith Ripka Diamond Earrings and a Charles Krypell Diamond Pendant. The room was transformed with floral creations by Mormile Florists.