Mary

Mary describes her life at JCHE as "full" and "fulfilling." Energetic, this Ulin tenant spends her time quietly making others' lives better. She attributes her world view to her experiences during the Depression.

"It was a time when neighbors helped neighbors," she explains. "This is so inbred that I don't know any other way to be."

Mary, who is in her 80s,is actively involved in helping JCHE's Brighton buildings run smoothly. She volunteers weekly, both as a front desk receptionist and as a computer center manager. She also devotes much of her time to help people on a personal level. She has visited JCHE neighbors when they have gone into a nursing home or hospital - even renting a car to do so when public transportation was not available.

She earned a certificate from AARP to provide money management assistance to elders who need help. When her JCHE neighbors need clothes mended, they know to see Mary. A self-taught seamstress, she creatively widens pants and reconfigures skirts so that people can continue to enjoy what no longer fits. Mary is also involved in the wider Brighton community. Encouraged by a friend to attend a meeting of the Brighton-Allston Improvement Association, Mary has since become an officer of the organization, adding her voice to advocate for a better neighborhood.