Stories from JCHE

WOW ... and THANK YOU!

Thanks to everyone who attended JCHE Spring Celebration 2013. Thanks to you, our vital work continues! Our residents so appreciate your generosity!

How Housing like JCHE’s Can Help Reduce Health Care Costs

It is abundantly clear that housing like JCHE’s can reduce health care use and costs. The primary concerns to the Medicare/Medicaid budgets are the costs associated with hospitalization, rehospitalization, and premature nursing home placement. More than a few health care dollars are wasted when patients (a.k.a. people) transfer from one setting to another, such as hospital to home or rehab, and then get readmitted to the hospital. Rehospitalizations are very common and in many cases can be reduced or avoided by putting systems in place and including all the players in the plan to support someone in the community: physicians, discharge planners, visiting nurses, home health care, social workers…. and yes, housing staff like JCHEs’!

NERSC: A conference that was well worth attending!

If my colleagues Gaye Freed and Laura Isenberg hadn’t gone ahead and volunteered me as a presenter at the 15th annual New England Resident Services, Inc. Conference (NERSC) I would never have given this organization a second thought. In my mind it was a conference that our RSC’s attended every year with consistently glowing reports.

How JCHE -- and other congregate housing models -- can help reform the health care system

A recent article published by the LeadingAge Center for Housing Plus Services, and written by Alisha Sanders, a good friend to JCHE, makes a few excellent points about how housing like JCHE’s can reduce health care use and costs. Below is part one of an adaptation of Alisha’s article.

Onsite nurse offers health information and personal reassurance

It is Tuesday morning at Coleman House and a line is beginning to form. Residents are patiently waiting to meet with Leslie Rosenblatt, R.N. They know that when the door to her office is opened and Leslie steps out to invite them in one at a time, all will be better.

Sometimes you just feel like dancing!

“Yes” Opens the Windows to Our Best Ideas

As you saw in Amy’s latest “Insights from Onsite” post, JCHE was very lucky to host Dr. Hans Becker, CEO of the Humanitas Foundation in Rotterdam, this last week. Dr. Becker is an inspirational leader and thinker who has transformed a system of un-inspired nursing homes into developments of “apartments for life.” Humanitas buildings are vibrant communities targeted to seniors where anyone can live and flourish as they age.

Developing housing through the lens of happiness

Dr. Hans Becker, Chair of the Humanitas Foundation in the Netherlands, spoke with JCHE's board yesterday and many of Boston's housing and senior services leaders today.

Bringing Work Home

Every year right before Passover I get stressed out. Not because I typically host 25 people each night at my house. Nor because I am charged with changing over my kitchen to my Passover dishes, pots, pans, and utensils. And not even in anticipation of ridding my diet of wheat products for a week. No, I get stressed because of a family tradition that my mother started years ago and continues to this day.

The Play's the Thing!

Over the past year or so, I have been nudging Charlie Raskin, one of our residents, to start a play reading group, similar to the one he coordinates at the BOLLI Lifelong Learning Institute at Brandeis.

Our event committee rocks!

The energetic committee for JCHE Spring Celebration 2013 met early this morning to continue planning for Jewish Community Housing for the Elderly's BIG event on Sunday, May 19 at The Westin Waltham at 6 pm.

Read more … Our event committee rocks!

Middlesex Bank supports JCHE fitness program

We were delighted last week to host Michael Kuza, Community Relations Officer at Middlesex Savings Bank, at Shillman House. Middlesex is partnering with JCHE to offer the fitness and wellness program, and we wanted to update him on this innovative and far-reaching program.

The Politics of Aging

One of my favorite presentations at a recent national conference was on the Politics of Aging. My ‘takeaway” was a new word for all of us to start using and practicing: GERIACTIVIST and GERIACTIVISM. In other words, don’t just complain about how the current political situation is affecting you as an older adult… do something about it.

Social isolation "increases death risk for older people"

Being cut off from friends and family and a support network poses a risk. Interesting article in the BBC reports that social isolation is associated with a higher risk of death in older people regardless of whether they consider themselves lonely, research suggests.

At Passover, Recalling an Exodus from Siberia

At many Seders, participants bring modern day examples of persecution to the table bit they are often someone else's tale. It's different at JCHE. Many residents could stand up and share the story of their own exodus from hatred and humiliation.

Arthur Goldberg gives JCHE residents the gift of music

Arthur Goldberg is an art and music aficionado – and a very generous person. A long time donor to JCHE, Arthur recently shared his love of music with residents at JCHE.

Why 24 hour coverage is important when choosing senior housing

Families want the peace of mind that comes with knowing that someone is looking after their loved one, regardless of the time of day or the type of situation.

"My Girl"

Being a fairly patient person, I am not at all patient by the use of the language “my girl,” to describe homemakers working at Coleman House.

The Making of a Seder Maven

My previous JCHE seder experiences had included several in Brighton – and last year at Golda. I am pleased to qualify as a JCHE Seder Maven and I recommend the experience.

Read more … The Making of a Seder Maven

Resident Service Coordinators are at the heart of each JCHE community

Whenever I am asked about attributes of Jewish Community Housing for the Elderly (JCHE) that distinguish it from other senior housing sites, I always include the Resident Service Coordinator (RSC) who is at the heart of each of our communities. I recently spoke with Jennifer Miller who has been the RSC at Shillman House, one of six JCHE communities, since it opened in June 2011. It was a good opportunity to check-in and see how she was enjoying her job.

The real question is: how do you want people to see you?

If you have ever toured a senior housing community, you may have thought, or heard from someone "Those people are old! I don't want to live with old people." Here’s the thing - old doesn’t happen overnight. Aging is a natural process that is happening to all of us all the time. If you just see “old”, you are missing out on the real person behind the wrinkles or the glasses or the walker.

Senior Housing and Home Care

A tough situation: Older adults need home care help that matches their financial resources and Home Care employees need a liveable wage and healthcare benefits. An indisputable fact: Choosing to live at JCHE enables both residents and Home Care providers to purchase and provide services with far greater efficiency than the alternative of living in a standalone house.

A “Nice Cuppa Tea”

I grew up in in a culture where tea was an important part of family life. Most of us have seen various British TV series, where a “nice cuppa tea” is a vehicle for friends getting together or neighbors supporting each other in time of joy or sorrow. With South Africa having been part of the British Commonwealth, some of the tea drinking traditions stuck, even though the Commonwealth relationship ended in 1961. My Mom and I would often share a quiet, half hour at the kitchen table with tea and biscuits. It was a time to connect after work or school.

Volunteering at the Golda Meir House Seder

On Wednesday, the 20th, my husband, Al, and I had the great joy of helping to serve at the Golda Meir House seder. As a member of the JCHE board, these opportunities come up for me from time to time.

The Story of Freedom is Retold at JCHE Seders

There is an overpowering sense of gratitude expressed at JCHE's Seders that goes well beyond appreciation for a delicious holiday meal. The 'thank yous' that are offered are for the peace of mind that residents feel now that they are on the other side of a journey that has brought them to a community that is welcoming and caring.

Lending a Helping Hand

Last week, the residents of Shillman House held a food drive for Jewish Family Services of Metrowest.

Shillman House: Senior Housing Community earns a Wow!

Shillman House will soon be celebrating its second birthday. In my job as Marketing Director I receive lots of incoming calls from prospective families interested in housing. The other day my phone rang and the caller was a local government official who most people in Framingham know. His mom now lives in Florida, she’s 81 years old and she’s thinking it’s time to move back home - she only wants to live in one place: The Shillman House.

JCHE presents at ASA Conference in Chicago

The early hour (an 8 am workshop!) did not deter a roomful of conference attendees to learn about managing at-risk tenants in senior housing from experts Laura Isenberg and Richard Lally from Golda Meir House.

What does JCHE senior housing and a box of chocolates have in common?

During one of our recent weekend snow storms, a friend and I went on the Boston Chocolate Walking Tour. Crazy? Yes, but entirely worth it!

Helping residents and staff of senior housing remember friends and neighbors

Periodically at Golda Meir House there is a Memorial Gathering for tenants who have passed away. This gathering helps both staff and tenants remember their friends and neighbors, and helps bring closure to our collective loss.

"I feel privileged and blessed to be part of the rebirth of a vibrant Jewish community in Dnepropetrovsk, Ukraine."

Read Francine's heartfelt remarks after receiving the AJAS 2013 Humanitarian Award.

Transportation issues for seniors need to be addressed

As the Marketing Director of the fabulous JCHE Shillman House perhaps the most pressing concern I hear from prospects about their future needs is what happens when and if the time comes when they can no longer drive?

Ellen Mittman: The auction item we won at JCHE’s auction was a wonderful one-of-a-kind experience!

Imagine inviting 10 special friends to your home for a delicious five course meal catered by The Fireplace while enjoying a fun and stimulating conversation led by Boston Globe film critic Ty Burr.

CJP's Young Leaders Host the 14th Senior Prom at JCHE!

For a few hours this past Saturday night, JCHE's Ulin House dining room was transported back in time to the 1950s. There was a wall-size depiction of a juke box, LPs on the table, young men in black leather jackets with their hair slicked back, and young women in poodle skirts.

Francine Godfrey is AJAS's Humanitarian of the Year!

We are so pleased to announce that this past weekend, at the national conference for the Association of Jewish Aging Services (AJAS), Francine was awarded the prestigious 2013 AJAS Humanitarian Award. Amy Schectman presented the award to her.

The Birds of Golda

Richard Lally, Maintenance Supervisor at Golda Meir House,reports that he and his cat Missy share a common interest: checking out the birds that visit Golda. "One of my favorite things about watching the birds of Golda is; sit, and they will come".

What Do Yahoo! And Senior Housing Have In Common?

The Washington Post ran a very thoughtful piece earlier this week by opinion writer Ruth Marcus: A real Yahoo move. Marcus opines about the CEO of Yahoo!, Marissa Mayer who has hit a nerve that deserves real thought and debate

JCHE's Coleman House is senior housing with a very caring community

When giving a tour of Coleman House, I always like to mention that we are a community comprised of four generations. We have residents who are in their sixties, seventies, eighties and nineties – and sometimes even a bit beyond! This age diversity makes for a very interesting and often very CARING community.

Co-generation unit produces hot water and great savings in JCHE senior housing

In April 2012, JCHE began operating a Aegis, 75kW co-generation unit in our Ulin House property. A co-gen unit takes natural gas and, using a diesel engine, produces electricity. As a result of running the engine to produce electricity, heat is generated by the engine. This heat is captured and used to heat domestic hot water in the summer and hot water for our hydronic baseboard heating system in the winter.

Bringing residents together in multi-cultural senior housing

One of the many benefits of working in a multicultural senior housing community like JCHE is that you can walk down any hallway and take in the exotic scents of freshly-prepared recipes from around the world. Someone is always cooking something that smells delicious whether from China, Greece, the Former Soviet Union, or one of the other 27 countries represented in our resident population

What should you do when mom and dad run out of money?

A recent Wall Street Journal article called Paying them Back caught our attention. When many older adults were planning for retirement they had a goal in mind that may not have factored in today’s life expectancy. When it comes to looking out for ourselves and our loved ones as older adults, in our opinion, the most important key success factor is quality, safe and loving housing.

Kick-off meeting for Celebration 2013 Event Committee!

Today was our kick-off meeting for the JCHE Spring Celebration 2013 event committee and we are energized! The committee is a wonderful group, and it includes many who are new to JCHE as well as those who have been hard-working supporters for years. (Photo: left to right) Ellen Mittman, Merle Grandberg, Lynne Elfland

Valentine’s Day: A day for being remembered and remembering

Valentine's Day is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the special people in your life.

JCHE's snow-covered Brighton campus

Thanks to Site Representative Stefan Mednev for this great photos of JCHE's Brighton campus the day after the storm!

The Power of a Good Storm

At Shillman House we see storms, like super storm Sandy, Hurricane Irene or little Nemo as an exercise in community building.

During a snowstorm, the Jewish Community Housing for the Elderly community comes together

Although JCHE was officially closed last Friday in anticipation of the snowstorm, Maxine and I came in to be sure everyone was ready for the storm. After tackling a project that could only be done when the offices were closed, we decided to check on the dining staff to see how they were faring. They had decided to serve lunch a little early so they could duck out before the storm hit. They had come in at 4:00 a.m. to be sure that lunch would be ready on time.

Passport to Jewish Community Housing for the Elderly

One of the challenges of working at JCHE is keeping the connection of a single professional community while doing so many different things.

Recalling the spirit -- and poetry -- of a JCHE resident

Phyllis Chomiuk lived at Golda Meir House for many years. She was a creative, engaging and inspirational woman who radiated warmth wherever she went. Unfortunately, in her late 90s, she was no longer able to manage physically at Golda and moved to a nursing home. She lived to age 102.

At JCHE, making crafts ... and connections!

On two consecutive Tuesdays in January, local artisan Ilana Klarman came to Brighton to lead crafts workshops with our tenants. These events were well attended and resulted in happy people, proud of their beautiful handmade books and tile trivets, all made from recycled materials.

The CORE of Jewish Community Housing for the Elderly

Just about a year ago, JCHE launched the results of our reorganization and culture change process, a participatory exercise that engaged all of our staff in defining what we needed to do to make JCHE the best workplace possible and lay a strong foundation for growth. The reorganization itself made a few strategic and key changes in our organizational chart, but mostly the process resulted in a series of principles and initiatives about how to work better.

Preparing for a move to senior housing: getting rid of “stuff!”

Carl Zack offers sage advice on a frequent response from an older person considering senior housing: "I can't move until I get rid of stuff."

Wisdom from a JCHE resident: "...some people, with age, get their talents awaken."

Today's guest blog is by Tatyana Faynberg, who lives in JCHE's Genesis House community. She writes beautifully about finding beauty in old age.

The essence of community displayed in a senior housing exercise class

What I really love about the Golda Meir House Community is the sense of “ownership" so often displayed by our residents. Last night I witnessed this in our dining room lounge. Posted by Laura Isenberg, Golda Meir House Resident Services Administrator

Better than Physical Therapy!

According to research, more than half of adults over 65 have been diagnosed with arthritis and approximately half of these individuals have limitations because of it. Shirley Lederman, a Shillman House resident, however, has a secret weapon to combat the debilitating symptoms that are caused by arthritis: the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program run by Francine Godfrey, JCHE’s fitness and wellness director.

Why I became a volunteer at JCHE and how I am making a difference

Today's post is by Laura Efron, a member of JCHE's Board of Directors and the chair of the Resident Services Committee. My volunteer and work experience dovetail so nicely with the JCHE experience. For over 30 years I have volunteered in various Jewish (mostly) and secular nonprofits whose missions are to help seniors in some way.

Big Retirement Mistakes

Today's post is by Scott Brightman, JCHE's Director of Shillman House Marketing, who emphasizes the need to develop a solid plan for housing for the retirement years.

Coleman House resident Natalia Shapirovsky's art on display at Needham Library

Natalia Shapirovsky, who wrote her Ph.D. in Astrophysics and earned a diploma in theater directing, began to paint seriously less than ten years ago. Describing her interest in science and art on her website, Natalia says "Intuition, imagination and creativity had significant impact in both lives. Twenty of her works are on exhibit at the Needham Public Library through January 30, 2013.

Where Did the Time Go?

Today's post describes the arduous and emotion-laded task of cleaning out one's parents' house was written by Maxine Bookless, Executive Director of Golda Meir House. It appeared in the Golda tenant newsletter.

Cranky Old Man

When an old man died in the geriatric ward of a nursing home in an Australian country town, it was believed that he had nothing left of any value. Later, when the nurses were going through his meager possessions, they found this poem.

There are very few things in life that we ALL do….

David Seltzer describes the dining program that he directs at JCHE: "I encourage residents to make suggestions as to what they would like to see on the menu. I explain that this is YOUR meals program and I just manage it for you. I enjoy telling residents that I am in the “yes” business."

New Eligibility Process for the MBTA’s Metro West RTA and The Ride

The MBTA has changed its requirement for enrollment and re-enrollment of riders for The Ride and the Metro West RTA: an in-person assessment is now required! JCHE's Scott Brightman checked out the process.

Advancing Design Innovation for Senior Supportive Housing

In support of our work providing services to our residents and enhancing their quality of life, JCHE is also the manager and developer of physical assets – the buildings that house our communities. In this role, as with our services, we are constantly striving to stay on the leading edge of design and innovation.

JCHE residents catch the Zumba beat!

For those seeking exercise, relaxation and fun, the Zumba classes at the Brighton campus and Golda Meir House are the place to be. Zumba is a dance fitness program designed to get people moving while having fun. And, judging from the enthusiasm in the room, the classes at JCHE are on target!

JCHE resident visits community in Ukraine that JCHE has assisted for years

Maria, one of our Brighton tenants who is also a Knitting Project volunteer visited Beit Baruch in Dnepropetrovsk (Dnep), Ukraine in August, 2012. JCHE has been active in the development of this unique and vitally needed senior housing. In this photo, Maria is showing the Brighton Knitters photos from her Dnep trip.

Risky Reverse Mortgages

Today's guest post is by Scott Brightman, JCHE's Marketing Director of Shillman House, who urges older people and their adult children to think about financial wellbeing and sustainability -- and seek professional financial advice before considering reverse mortgage as a solution.

What makes an apartment building a “community?”

Today's guest blog post is by Carl Zack, JCHE's Chief of Operations: Whenever I tour a prospective resident around Shillman House, one of the six independent living properties owned by JCHE, I always make a point that they are in a community, not an apartment building. That opens the door for them to ask, “what’s the difference?”

Good suggestions for families as older relatives' driving abilities begin to change - submitted by Scott Brightman

Intergenerational exercise (and eating) today in Brighton!

The rain did not prevent the energetic kindergarten kids from the Edison School to walk to Genesis House this morning to exercise and eat with their JCHE friends.

Independent Senior Housing -- JCHE-Style

In today's blog post, Carl Zack, JCHE Chief of Operations, shares his perspective on what independent housing offers and how seniors experience it.

Bloomingdale's Brunch is HUGE Success!

A festive gathering of over 150 JCHE supporters spent Sunday morning eating a delicious brunch hosted by Bloomingdale's and provided by Baker's Best Catering, enjoying private shopping throughout the store and contributing to needed services for seniors who live at JCHE. Over $8,000 was raised for essential programs that enhance the quality of life for JCHE residents.

Senator Karen Spilka visits Shillman House

Senator Spilka took a full tour of Shillman House yesterday. As Amy Schectman showed her the building, the Senator was elated to meet residents and see the beautiful amenities of a building she had advocated for during its development.

JCHE holds Mental Health Forum

Today, JCHE sponsored an exceptional forum on mental health issues. Representatives from many senior housing providers throughout Boston were in attendance to have the opportunity to wrestle with this complex arena. A very knowledgeable and well-represented panel provided an overview.

JCHE residents make the world warmer, one-hand knitted scarf at a time!

Metrowest Daily News covers our wonderful intergenerational program that links residents at Shillman House to students at Framingham's Potter School.

Many expressions of gratitude this Thanksgiving

At Thanksgiving celebrations throughout JCHE, residents are offering their thanks. Here are some of the thoughts that have been shared: "I am thankful for my children and my beautiful apartment that they get to visit me in.

An Inspiring Evening at the FIDF 10th Anniversary Celebration

JCHE Residents and Tufts Medical Students Learn from One Another

For the past eight weeks, Tufts students have spent their Thursday afternoons out of the classroom and into the apartments at Golda Meir House, Coleman House and JCHE's Brighton campus. While students hone their doctor/patient communication skills, residents have the opportunity to shape the perspective of future medical providers. And all experience heartfelt and meaningful relationships.

Veterans Honored at Shillman House

A distinguished group of veterans, most of who had served in World War II and all of who now live at Shillman House, gathered today for a Veterans' Day tribute. These were the individuals who flew the planes, sailed the seas and marched through the forests to bring the war to an end.

Feeling secure at JCHE

Board meetings at JCHE begin with a D’var Torah. These opening remarks are often offered by a resident. For the October meeting, David Shonfield told members of JCHE’s Board about his life at Genesis House on the Brighton campus.

JCHE holds candidates forum

Residents at JCHE are always interested in having access to candidates to make informed voting decisions. This year was no exception.

Read more … JCHE holds candidates forum

JCHE resident Marvin Wilkenfeld wins LeadingAge 2012 Volunteer Service Award!!

Congratulations to JCHE resident Marvin Wilkenfeld who was nominated by Robin Nasson, Executive Director of Coleman House. An active volunteer in the building and out in the community, most notably Marvin serves as volunteer manager of the Coleman House convenience store. In the past few years, he has transformed a chronically understocked and understaffed store into a bustling hub where residents can find essentials as well as prepared foods and fresh fruits and vegetables. Marvin's labor of love is a highly valued contribution to the entire Coleman community.

Honoring our amazing volunteers

This week, JCHE's Brighton campus honored its 140 volunteers. Volunteers are the backbone of JCHE's housing. They are essential to our ability to run smoothly day after day.

JCHE welcomes IAHSA for an affordable housing study tour

An enthusiastic group from the International Association of Homes and Services for the Ageing (IAHSA) toured JCHE to learn about our model for affordable, supportive senior housing. One stop on the tour was our art studio where guests enjoyed meeting residents and viewing their artwork.

Jess Hamermesh receives CJP's 2012 Young Leadership Award

We are so proud that at last night's CJP Annual Meeting, the prestigious Young Leadership Award went to our own Jessica Hamermesh. Here's what CJP said about their awardee "Few people have the same dedication and leadership as Jessica. No matter what role she plays in the Jewish community or at CJP, she delivers the same thoughtful, strategic and enthusiastic approach every time...In her job at JCHE, she merges her passion for the community with intergenerational programming." Jess' community involvement includes serving on the National Young Leadership Cabinet and CJP's Jaffa Society.

Great Days for Seniors -- the adult day health program located at JCHE -- celebrates its Bar Mitzvah year!

In 1997, JCHE indentified an unmet need of its residents - a place to spend the day in an engaging, supervised setting. JCHE and Hebrew Rehabilitation Center teamed up to create Great Days for Seniors located at JCHE"s Genesis House in Brighton, which Hebrew Rehab has managed ever since.

Cooking class explores salads for summers

JCHE's Director of Food Services, David Seltzer, focused his monthly cooking class on ideas for summer. The Brighton residents who attended the class were mesmerized by David's ability to transform vegetables into beautiful salads that are perfect for Boston's summer weather.

JCHE honors 6 new citizens in style!

Every year around Independence Day, our Brighton campus celebrates residents who have become new US citizens. This year, six residents took the classes and studied diligently so that they could officially call America their home. The Klezmer Conservatory Band has been on hand each year to fill the room with the joyous sounds of Klezmer music.

Yearlong pen-pals enjoy meeting face to face

For the past year, fifth graders from the Edward Everett School in Dorchester have been exchanging letters with their JCHE pen-pals. Today, at a special goodbye lunch, they had the chance to meet one another with open arms.

Happy Birthday Shillman House!

Hard to believe but Shillman House celebrated its first birthday on Friday!

Victory Day celebrated at Golda Meir House

Golda Meir House had a wonderful Victory Day on May 9, marking the date 67 years ago when World War II ended in Europe.

Residents knit lovingly for neighborhood babies

Recently our Brighton Knitting Project volunteers assembled 18 bags for the Welcome Baby Program of the Allston-Brighton Family Network.

Senior Prom is "A Knight to Remember"

Do you remember the excitement of attending Senior Prom? This past Saturday, residents from JCHE's Brighton community experienced this joy thanks to the generosity and creativity of members of the Young Leaders Division (YLD) of Combined Jewish Philanthropies.

Shillman House Seder 2012

This was Shillman House's first Seder and was hugely successful!

Brighton Seder 2012

This year's Seder was wonderfully participatory with residents leading portions and prayers in English, Russian and Mandarin. The meal was traditional (and vey delicious!) and the themes of freedom were timely and universal!

Golda Meir House Seder 2012

In celebration of Passover, Golda Meir House had a wonderful Seder. It was well attended, well organized and the traditional meal was delicious! Thanks to all the volunteers who assisted.

Coleman House Seder 2012

Coleman House residents held a Seder with special guests from the Diller Teen Group from Haifa Israel.

HUD NE Regional Administrator tours JCHE

Barbara Fields visited JCHE's Brighton campus and described JCHE as 'a great partner' in her Tweet. She is shown here with JCHE CEO and President Amy Schectman and Leventhal House resident Xiu Yun Liu.

Kudos to JCHE knitters!

Children's Hospital thanks JCHE knitters for 7 years of beautiful gifts for their patients.

Amy Schectman's blog post is shared nationally

Every Monday morning, Don Shulman, Executive Director of Association of Jewish Aging Services (AJAS) sends an email out to its membership throughout the country, highlighting the work of one member organization. This week, JCHE was selected with a reference to Amy's post on Insights from Onsite that featured the impressive work of our resident services coordinators.

The focus is on healthy living - for all generations!

Once a month, an eager group of kindergarteners and their teachers walk from Brighton's Edison School to Genesis House to spend some quality time together!

Ethel Freedman’s secret to long life? Her grandson says “Golda Meir House”

Although Ethel Freedman no longer lives at Golda Meir House, five of her close friends from that community were on hand to celebrate her 100th birthday!

JCHE partners with Jewish Family &Children’s Service on a multi-year mental health initiative

JCHE has a strong commitment to create and sustain communities that are caring and supportive. We highly value staff training so that our staff has the skills they need to best assist our residents. When our primary direct service staff – our resident service coordinators (RSC) -- expressed a need for more skill development to assist residents dealing with mental illness, JCHE developed a strategy.

Purim

We have just finished celebrating the holiday of Purim. It's a good time to remember the people we serve at JCHE and the ones who wish we could serve them, but remain on our waiting list—sometimes for 5 or 6 years.

The Brighton Campus celebrates Purim!

The festive holiday of Purim was celebrated with great joy in our Brighton communities.

BU OT students bring their expertise and enthusiasm to Genesis House

On Worldwide Occupational Day of Service, BU students spent the afternoon at JCHE.

No question about it: there's more to conducting than waving a baton!

Residents at Golda and in Brighton had the chance this week to imagine themselves as conductors rehearsing at Symphony Hall when they attended G CLEF (Group Conductor-Led Exercise & Fitness) at JCHE.

Spotlight: Toby Kumin and her young sons create a special friendship at JCHE

Toby Kumin, along with Noah and Jesse, have forged a special friendship with Bella. The relationship is valued by all. According to Toby it is especially wonderful for her sons... “to see how people can age gracefully and with joy with lots of friends around.”

Another first: Shillman House's first Chinese New Year

Over 70 residents celebrated the Year of the Dragon.

Generations together in Brighton

Kids from the Edison School spent the morning with their friends!

There is no place like home!

Jean Cohen is feeling really good these days. While she has long loved her beautiful Coleman House apartment, it is looking particularly warm and inviting right now. Jean was recently hospitalized for a heart condition. She has only recently returned from four months in the hospital and rehab. These were tough months. It wasn’t clear that Jean would return to Coleman.

Generations come together at Shillman House

Shillman House recently kicked off innovative program with MetroWest Jewish Day School with funding by Framingham Cooperative Bank Foundation. The bank presented a ceremonial check as part of the kick off.

Dorothy Solomon enjoys her life at JCHE

"I knew JCHE was where I wanted to live!"

Coleman House ushers in 2012

Each year, Coleman residents organize a magical new year's eve dance party -- and this year was no exception!!

Latke Throw Down

Yesterday Shillman House held its first Latke Throw Down, which will no doubt become an annual holiday highlight. Dining Services Director Dave Seltzer and Resident Service Coordinator Jennifer Miller went head to head (more like spud to spud) in a fun-filled competition.

Shillman House Antique Road Show is a big hit!

Elaine Winterhalter asked the appraiser to look at this family treasure -- a sampler!

Mayor Warren and Rep Khan attend Golda Meir House event

Last night, Mayor Setti Warren and Rep Kay Khan offered their personal holiday greetings to over 90 residents at the Golda Meir House holiday party.

A community within a community

A special Hanukkah celebration in the Genesis Program Center brings friends together who met when they emigrated from the former Soviet Union in the early '90s.

Artists are celebrated at Coleman House

Coleman House artists display their stunning art!

Art bridges generations and cultures

Art is an exceptional vehicle for bridging generations and cultures. The group of young professionals from CJP’s Young Leadership Division who have been gathering monthly with JCHE residents in Brighton know this to be true.

Shillman House gathers for first Thanksgiving

The expressions of personal thankfulness that are shared include making it through the Shillman lottery process and becoming a part of a new Shillman family.

Much to be thankful for today at JCHE!

"Thanksgiving is more than a holiday -- it's a miracle!" These sentiments were offered by one of the 160 residents in Brighton today who attended the wonderful Thanksgiving lunch.

The pressure is on at Shillman's chopped liver cook-off!

The question asked recently at Shillman House was not "so what am I ...chopped liver? It was the inaugural Shillman Chopped Liver Cook-Off so the question on everyone's mind was "so who makes the best chopped liver?"

Great new fitness programs

We are working with Tufts School of Occupational Therapy, offering special exercise classes for those with arthritis, and planning to begin Zumba soon!

Read more … Great new fitness programs

“Music keeps me going”

Through a grant from Ernie Boch Jr.’s Music Drives Us Foundation, JCHE has created a new and stimulating music program. This unique class is held weekly at Golda, Coleman and Shillman over two 14-week periods.

Read more … “Music keeps me going”

Golda Meir's fashion show proves that beauty is truly ageless!

Beauty is truly ageless!

Book signing at Shillman House

Local author Ann Port visits Shillman House for a reading and signing of her recent novel "It's All in the Title".

War Veterans Remembered at Golda Meir House

Golda Meir House celebrated Veterans Day with its annual event honoring the veterans of WWII. Each veteran was given a rose, and the wives of deceased veterans were also given a rose in honor of their husband's service.

JCHE once again proves to be an exceptional classroom for future doctors

Coleman House resident Betty Franklin speaks to JCHE Board

Last week, Betty Franklin spoke at JCHE's Board meeting and conveyed her belief that "there is no better place to live."

Art

When the art teacher for Golda Meir House left to take a full time job, Betty Rosenzweig, a resident, took it upon herself to be the catalyst for the group so that they could continue meeting. Sally Lakin, pictured here drawing on her sketchpad, is s 102!

The knitting needles around JCHE have been clicking away!

Knitters at Golda Meir House and the Brighton Campus have been lovingly creating beautiful handmade items to share with children in need.

JCHE's Gaye Freed is LeadingAge's Outstanding Mentor of the Year

Last night, Gaye Freed, JCHE's Director of Resident Services and Associate Property Manager of Brighton Buildings, was honored as LeadingAge Massachusetts' Outstanding Mentor of the Year. This is a well -deserved tribute to Gaye who has worked at JCHE for 31 years. In addition to her staff of Brighton Resident Services Coordinators, Gaye has supervised dozens of students throughout the years in the process of earning their Masters in Social Work degree.

Coleman House ushers in the New Year

For the second year, Coleman House resident Sylvia Jaffee organized and led a lovely holiday service on Erev Rosh Hashanah

Resident Services - Community

Hear how the community at JCHE rallied when Betty faced a serious medical situation. Presented by Barbara Friedman, JCHE's Director of Generations Together.

Resident Stories - Engagement

Hear how the staff and environment at JCHE helped Audrey re-engage in life following a serious medical diagnosis. (Presented by Jessica Hamermesh, JCHE's Director of Intergenerational Programs.)

Resident Stories: Encouragement

Hear how JCHE's fitness program gave Selma the encouragement she needed to regain her confidence following a fall. (Presented by JCHE Resident Services Coordinator Sarah Green Vaswani)

JCHE Coleman House Celebrates Summer With Annual BBQ

Over 70 tenants enjoyed the annual summer barbecue at Coleman House tonight. Under a cloudless sky, tenants began with wine and snacks on our beautiful flower filled patio. Golda cook Arsen Pogosyian with help from his daughter, Guyana, cooked up hot dogs and veggie burgers accompanied by potato salad, cole slaw and pickles prepared by Kristina and her crew from the Golda kitchen.

Community building in response to Irene

Like so many buildings throughout Massachusetts, the power has been off at Shillman House since mid-day Sunday. Inconvenient for sure, but the quick and thorough response from JCHE staff has kept the generator -- and spirits -- going strong.

Introducing Resident's Stories

What's the best way to understand life at JCHE?

Expression with a brush and an easel

Sylvia Jaffee and Bea Goodfader are regulars at the art class at Coleman House and big fans of instructor Edie Green.

JCHE and CJP Young Leaders come together to create art

Recently, an enthusiastic group of members from CJP’s Young Leadership Division (YLD) joined an equally enthusiastic group of JCHE residents to create art together. With guidance from art therapist Tova Speter, they are designing and painting a tile mural.

Shillman House makes continuing to live in Framingham possible

Lillian Lipof, Claire Rubin and Mag Miller have each lived in Framingham well over 30 years. Thanks to Shillman House, they are able to continue to be residents of a town they have long called home.

It started with a rose plant found in the trash

Growing up in Russia, Galina Ivanova had a garden in the country that she could visit only on weekends. It gave her tremendous satisfaction, but she was often wishing she had more time. Once she moved to Golda Meir House, Galina's hands "were itching to start a garden."

Honoring our newest Americans

It's a tradition on our Brighton campus to take time on or around the Fourth of July to acknowledge our tenants who have become U.S. citizens over the past 12 months. (YOU CAN ALSO READ ABOUT THIS EVENT IN AMY'S "INSIGHTS FROM ONSITE" BLOG!)

A bit of magic in our new program center!

Recently a group of kindergartners from the Edison School in Brighton walked over to spend a morning with residents from Ulin House, Leventhal House and Genesis House. They were greeted by older adults with wide smiles who were eager to meet their young guests. The interactions were magical. Within a few minutes, the seniors and children were in small clusters getting to know one another. There were some language barriers for sure: some of the residents only speak Cantonese, Mandarin or Russian. Yet the feeling of happiness that radiated around the room transcended these hurdles.Recently a group of kindergartners from the Edison School in Brighton walked over to spend a morning with residents from Ulin House, Leventhal House and Genesis House. They were greeted by older adults with wide smiles who were eager to meet their young guests. The interactions were magical. Within a few minutes, the seniors and children were in small clusters getting to know one another. There were some language barriers for sure: some of the residents only speak Cantonese, Mandarin or Russian. Yet the feeling of happiness that radiated around the room transcended these hurdles.

LIFE AT JCHE: The comments of Marvin Wilkenfeld, a resident of Coleman House

How did I relocate here in Newton after a lifetime in New York City? It’s a complicated story. Suffice to say that my long-term plan was not to retire to live in senior subsidized housing, but I thank the stars that aligned and got me here.

JCHE's project places third in the Greater Boston Affordable Housing Development Competition

As part of tje 11th annual Greater Boston Affordable Housing Development competition sponsored by the Federal Home Loan Bank Board, a team of ten graduate students from Harvard and MIT worked with our staff to develop plans that could someday be new JCHE affordable senior housing. The site for the proposed project is a parcel of land owned by Boston Redevelopment Authority adjacent to Leventhal House on our Brighton campus.

CJP's Boston Jewish Community Women's Fund reinforces JCHE's safety net

JCHE's Barbara Friedman honored by community partners

As Barbara Friedman prepares for her retirement from JCHE after 11 years as the Director of Generations Together, her colleagues from the community and the organization gathered to express appreciation. Pictured here are Nicole Mack (principal) and Alyce Collins (reading specialist) from the Edward Everett Elementary School in Dorchester. They presented Barbara with a beautiful collection of photos of the intergenerational tutoring program.

Shillman House opens!

The moving trucks are beginning to arrive at Shillman House!

Behind the scenes at Celebration 2011

Oh what a night!!!

You don't need to be Russian to celebrate Victory Day at JCHE!

Golda Meir House residents and staff worked together to organize a joyous Victory Day celebration. While it is a Russian national holiday, there were many nationalities among the over 100 in attendance.

Spring arrives at JCHE!

Beauty at every age: the fashion show at JCHE's Brighton site

The new program center auditorium was the venue for a spirited fashion show featuring 17 Brighton residents who showcased their flair for fashion. Featured in the photo: Phuong Thai models an elegant dress.

Passover at JCHE

Each of JCHE's sites held model Passover Seders this week. Using a multi-lingual Haggadah to tell the story of Passover, it was attended by residents of all backgrounds. At Coleman House, resident Sylvia Jaffee led the Seder while her neighbor Ida Paysnick lit the holiday candles.

Neighbors helping neighbors

Natalie Lichtenstein, who runs a weekly conversational class for her Coleman House neighbors who are learning English, calls it "the best thing I have ever done in my life!"

Read more … Neighbors helping neighbors

A Forgotten Tune

We recently held the first concert in our new and beautiful auditorium in the Genesis House program center. Three students from the Perkins School for the Blind gave an unforgettable performance, which included folk, jazz, and classical music. Three young men, Andy, John and Anton, showed their talents playing different instruments and singing Yiddish and Russian songs.

Innovative Fitness in an Innovative Space

With the opening of JCHE Brighton Campus’s new Program Center, we chose a variety of ways to celebrate. Two events of our grand opening celebration took advantage of the excitement our tenants felt at the beautiful new space.

Purim Joy

A spirited group of residents enjoyed the sounds and tastes of Purim.

Brunch with Rabbi Beth

Once a month, Rabbi Beth Naditch joins residents from Coleman House to lead a discussion about living in a caring community.

A daughter stays connected to JCHE

During the seven years that Gussie Markin lived at Golda Meir House, her daughter Esta found many opportunities to volunteer in the building.

Closure

A few times each year, we hold a memorial gathering at Golda Meir House. It’s a chance for both staff and tenants to remember tenants who have recently passed away. It’s a way to bring closure to our collective loss.

Dancing-- and chatting --the night away!

On Saturday night, the dining room of Ulin House was transformed into a retro-style candy store for the nearly 150 attendees of the 12th annual YLD Senior Prom. The ‘Kid in a Candy Shop’ theme took residents and volunteers alike on a trip down memory lane, with the help of sticky sweet treats, a photo booth, and a dance floor that brought back the forties in full swing.

Genesis House's new computer lab will open soon

Computer proficiency is a growing trend around JCHE as residents seek to stay in touch with family and friends via the World Wide Web. With loved ones and contacts in countries all over the world, residents use the computers to send and receive photos, exchange emails, and stay up-to-date with current events.