Kathleen Cohen
Finding Purpose
Retiree embraces new beginnings and stays active at the MJCCA
Shifting gears from a busy career to a leisurely retirement came with a bit of trepidation for Kathleen Cohen. “I was a little concerned about what I was going to do to fill my time, but I have not had a minute to spare,” she says, and it’s all thanks to the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta. “Since I retired 18 months ago, the MJCCA has become an even bigger part of my life. I found activities and programs that excite me and help improve my physical fitness. The MJCCA has helped make me well-rounded, and open to new experiences.”
The MJCCA has helped make me well-rounded, and open to new experiences. It’s given me purpose since retiring.Kathleen Cohen
As someone who did not play sports growing up, Kathleen was apprehensive about doing so as an adult. “When I first joined the JCC, I was a little intimidated about playing sports,” she shares. “But I decided to try tennis and got hooked. I play during the spring and fall and participate in clinics. It’s been a wonderful experience, because the coaches, captains, and players are so friendly and encouraging, even if you’re not the greatest player!”
When a serious illness hospitalized Kathleen for six weeks in 2016, she credited her strength to being active at the MJCCA. “I believe that both tennis and Pilates helped my recovery – both because I was in good physical shape and because I was motivated to get well and get back at them.”
Additionally, Senior Day at the MJCCA sparked several of Kathleen’s new interests. “I really enjoyed the lectures about Israel, and the cooking class inspired me to take another,” she explains. “I also tried pickleball for the first time and really liked it.” Kathleen now plays several times a week and has bonded with the other players. “We have a lot in common and have really gotten to know each other, sharing updates about our travels, our grandchildren, our aches and pains, etc.,” she shares. “It feels so good to have met new people who have a common interest.”
“The MJCCA is such an integral part of my life,” Kathleen declares. “It has given me purpose since retiring.”
Impact
99% surveyed felt connected to Jewish culture and heritage by participating in Senior Day at the MJCCA.