For some people, moving into retirement means plenty of time to relax and pursue leisurely activities. For others, using some of this time to make meaningful contributions to their community can yield extraordinary results and friendships. Before their paths crossed in retirement, Noam Eimer and Bruce Satalof spent a combined 113 years applying practical, social, and educational skills to careers, family, and friends in their diverse lives. In 2007, they embarked on a collaborative journey in a volunteer program in the Philadelphia area that would be both endearing and enduring beyond all expectations.

Noam and Bruce came from different places and times: one from Israel in the early 1940’s; the other from Philadelphia in the mid 1950’s. Noam was an Israeli soldier in his teens; Bruce played street hockey until he was almost twenty and softball into his thirties. Along the way, they would experience many historical events (protests, wars, assassinations) through very disparate lenses, but the core values they did share - strong family bonds, keen work ethic, desire to help those less fortunate - would serve them greatly as a team. The Paths We Cross takes readers on a journey from the authors’ modest beginnings to great accomplishment and may provide inspiration for those struggling with plans for "life after retirement.”

*Featured in Main Line Today Magazine and Delco Daily Times.

*Authors interviewed on the Retirement Wisdom Podcast: Listen Here

Noam Eimer is an information technology professional with a Master’s degree in Civil Engineering from Newark College of Engineering (now known as NJIT). Born in Israel only a few years before the country’s declaration of independence, Noam immigrated to the United States in 1964 to pursue his education after serving in the Israeli army and has lived there ever since. He has extensive experience in project management, business process engineering, large-scale application development and new business development projects. After a 35-year career, he retired from active employment, but continues to contribute his knowledge, expertise and time to create value for his community on a volunteer basis, most notably through the AARP Tax-Aide Program. Noam has resided in the Philadelphia area with his wife for the past five decades where they also raised three children.

Bruce Satalof is a business professional with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from St. Joseph’s University. Born in West Philadelphia, Bruce was the youngest of four boys to parents whose Depression Era roots were a strong influence. Whereas he thrived in sports and business endeavors, it wasn’t until his 30’s that he felt compelled to pursue a college degree in order to realize his full potential. After attending night school while working full time and helping to raise two children, Bruce achieved his dream in 2004 when he received his degree in Business Administration. Having retired from active employment after a 32-year career, he was able to continue applying his management skills as a volunteer in the AARP Tax-Aide Program. Bruce continues to live in the Philadelphia area with his wife and has found his post-retirement ventures to be a fulfilling part of his life's journey.