Barry Starr has been volunteering with Bikkur Cholim for the past five years. He visits Jewish residents at various care facilities and also sees Jewish patients at Emory Clifton Hospital. Before moving to Atlanta, Barry was an avid volunteer in Silver Springs, MD.

In addition to Barry’s regular visits through JF&CS, he also visits at Berman Commons and Weinstein hospice.

Barry’s favorite part of volunteering is interacting with people and has given himself the job title of “schmoozer.” He enjoys finding out what people’s interests are and plans their visits accordingly. Whether listening to music, reading or just talking, Barry’s goal is to help ensure that the person feels a little happier from his visit. He shares that being a good listener, being positive and making sure the patient is a priority at all times are the keys to a successful visit.

When Barry is not volunteering, his family is his top priority. He and his wife Betsy have been blessed with three sons and three wonderful daughters-in-law and have 12 grandchildren! In Atlanta, Barry can often be found at his synagogue, Ohr HaTorah in Toco Hills, where his son is the Rabbi. His other family lives in Israel and Barry and his wife visit them several times a year.

Thank you Barry for spreading "Jewish sunshine" and making lives better for our community members!