About Us

The Association of Jewish Aging Services (AJAS) was founded in 1960 as the North American Association of Jewish Homes and Housing for the Aging (NAJHHA). It was created and continues to function as the central coordinator for homes and residential facilities for Jewish elderly in North America. Dr. Herbert Shore was the driving force behind the establishment of AJAS and was the organization’s first president.

A 501(c)3 non-profit organization, AJAS is a unique forum that promotes and supports elder services in the context of Jewish values through education, professional development, advocacy, and community relationships.

AJAS represents the best interests of the Jewish aged in communities where membership organizations are located. The members of AJAS administer to the needs of the aging through residential health care, assisted living and group homes, independent and congregate housing, and living-at-home service programs.

AJAS functions to promote the unique role and mission of Jewish-sponsored not-for-profit organizations serving the aging by arranging educational meetings for the mutual exchange of information and ideas for members and all organizations for the aging, working jointly with and supporting other organizations which serve the aging, working with members to improve the operation and status of each members organization, and by concerning itself with the welfare of and advocacy for all elderly.

Our members

The AJAS membership is comprised of non-profit Jewish-sponsored nursing homes, housing communities, community based service organizations and outreach programs throughout North America and Israel.

Our Team

Ruth Katz
President & CEO

Janine Gelfond
Member Strategy & Engagement

Gwyn E Earl
Conference Consultant