Story #84: Natalie Portman, Former Elderly 1-2-1 Director, Inspires Generations Through the Screen

During her time as an undergraduate at Harvard (1999-03), Natalie Portman directed PBHA’s Elderly 1-2-1 program, fostering meaningful connections between students and senior residents of Cambridge. In this initiative, each student-adult pair meets virtually to share stories, play games, and engage in activities that enrich their lives. By promoting one-on-one companionship, Elderly 1-2-1 not only combats isolation among aging residents but also educates students on the profound effects of aging, building relationships rooted in trust and continuity.

“We met several times and she held the position of director for several semesters. She was very humble, manning the program’s table at open house, and she initiated a holiday gift program for the elders, even working on it while she was on location in New Zealand for Star Wars.” - Kerry McGowan, Director of Programs

In addition to her impactful work with PBHA, Portman has built a remarkable career in the arts, earning acclaim for her performances in films like Black Swan and V for Vendetta. Her versatility shines through in a wide range of roles, while her directorial work, including A Tale of Love and Darkness, highlights her commitment to storytelling from multiple perspectives. As she balances her artistic pursuits with community engagement, Portman exemplifies the transformative power of connection—both on-screen and in real life.

Read more about Portman’s remarkable career here!