Jill Pizitz-Hochstein, M.A., CDP is one of the leading Gerontologists in California. She along with her husband, Erik, developed Cooper Senior Care Consulting, a geriatric consulting firm, to help families deal with family members coping with age-related disabilities. She is a Certified Dementia Practitioner and lecturer in the field. She specialized in helping seniors suffering from substance abuse as well as Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s and other disabilities.

Jill founded Sydney Cooper Senior Smiles in honor of Sylvia Cooper, her grandmother, and named the organization after her grandfather, Sidney Cooper. Jill graduated from the University of Southern California with a Bachelors degree in psychology and went on to complete her Masters degree in clinical psychology from Pepperdine University. Jill spent many years as a director of various clinical departments in acute psychiatric hospitals. She now dedicates her life to improve the lives of the elderly.

Erik Hochstein was born in Dusseldorf, Germany, where he grew up and graduated from high school in 1987. After completing his military service, he attended the university in Bochum, Germany for one year. He transferred to the University of Southern California and graduated with a bachelors degree in business in 1992. Erik graduated first in his class from the Pepperdine MBA program and has worked for BMC Software and Candle Corporation in sales and business operations.

In 2001, he founded Sydney Cooper Senior Smiles with his wife Jill. In 2002, he also helped establish Cooper Senior Care Consulting (a geriatric consulting company) and runs the business and financial operations of the organizations.

In his personal life, Erik is a highly accomplished athlete, winning a Bronze Medal in the 1988 Olympics in the sport of swimming. He continues to enjoy the sport and still competes at the highest level.  

Gabe graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles in 2011 with a B.S. in Physiological Science and is a spirited Bruin Alumnus. He currently resides in both Westwood and Burbank, CA. When he's not visiting seniors and coordinating volunteers, Gabe spends his time with family and keeps active by continuing to take more classes in preparation for graduate school. Senior Smiles has taught him to be grateful for small but meaningful things, such as a friendly face, a pleasant conversation, or a nice hug. Not everyone gets to experience these on a regular basis and he loves that Senior Smiles is able to provide these to those that appreciate it the most.

After finishing a course of acting for film at Universal Studios, Felipe desired to devote more of his time to help those in need. Senior Smiles allowed him to do that. What at first felt like a small calling, proved to be one of the most joyous and rewarding experiences he's ever had. Now he looks forward to making it easier for others to also experience how much brighter life is when you're making other smile.

Nitya has been a Volunteer Coordinator with Senior Smiles since 2004 and now leads new volunteer trainings every month. He is a graduate of the UCLA Anderson School of Management and also holds an undergraduate degree in chemical engineering from New Jersey Institute of Technology. Nitya grew up in Singapore, India, and Tanzania before moving to New Jersey for college. He is also an avid soccer fan. He believes that the smiles brought to the seniors make a real difference. The special people who come to volunteer has kept Nitya involved with Senior Smiles over these years.

Kim has been a Santa Monica College student since 2010. Born and raised in Hollywood, CA, she now lives in the San Fernando Valley. She enjoys playing and watching sports as well as spending time with friends and family. Kim joined Senior Smiles not only to meet new people, but to also make new memories and make people smile. "It makes me feel like I've made a difference in someone's life."

Jennifer was born and raised in Washington State and moved to California 15 years ago. She is a devoted mother to her 3 year old daughter Ava and joined Senior smiles because she has always had a soft spot for seniors. She knows that some are lonely and would love a visit from someone who cares. She feels it is important for her daughter to learn respect and empathy for Seniors and to give back to the world through volunteer work. Jennifer spent a couple years in Europe and speaks French. She loves golf tennis and is a nut for photography.

Karen is a registered nurse for LAC+USC General Hospital. She currently lives in Redondo Beach, CA. When she has spare time, she takes yoga classes, enjoys shopping, and spending time with friends. In December 2010, she joined Senior Smiles so that she can meet new people, make a positive impact in the well being of others, and learn life lessons through interactions with seniors. Her motto is "Come with a smile and leave them with a smile."

Christina has two full time jobs as a content editor and stay at home mom.  A graduate of Loyola Marymount University with a Bachelors degree in Communication Studies, She joined Senior Smiles in 2010 with her toddler daughter Kylie to forge new friendships and pass on the values of volunteering to Kylie. Volunteering has been in a part of her life since her Girl Scout days and she is proud to continue the tradition with her daughter. Christina enjoys frequent trips to Disneyland, the park, and the beach.