McHarrie LifeTimes Fall/Winter 2023

FALL/WINTER 2023

Q& A for your health

LIVING LIFE

MEET FRAN AND S A L LY L O U N I C H O L S

With A Little Help From My

V A

OUR C Y E

And Eat It, Too!

FRIENDS

Volunteer!

O OK

H

Name that Commercial!

and make a difference today

IE

Meet

Vivian Ludwigsen

Dear Friends,

McHarrie

Independent

A

s we grow older, we learn that life doesn’t always go as planned. So, if you find yourself in the hospital and need short-term rehabilitation, we are just a phone call away.

McHarrie Place

Health & Rehabilitation Center

M c H a r r i e To w n e

Independent Living Our five-star rated program helps people regain their strength, renew their confidence, and return home. Our professional McHarrie Place therapists, nursing andHealth support staff strive to help every & Rehabilitation person live their very best life. Center

Admissions: 315-638-2521

McHarrie Founda

McHarrie Pointe Assisted Living Residence

Admissions: 315-638-2525

In addition to our outstanding care, our program promotes McHarrie Life healing of the mind, body, and spirit in a warm, tranquil F o u n d a t i o n Sage Court Memory Care @ McHarrie Pointe setting. Studies show that well-designed rehabilitative environments can reduce a patient’s anxiety and stress, Admissions: 315-638-2525 accelerate recovery, lessen the need for pain medications, and promote a better sense of well-being.

To learn more about our nationally recognized program, feel free to contact our admissions department at 315-638-2521.

Best wishes to you for a safe, healthy, and happy new year.

M c H a r r i e To w n e Independent Living

Admissions: 315-638-1172 To request information about our programs,

M c H a r r i e P l aplease c e call 315-638-2521 or visit our website M c H a r r i e at www.mcharrielife.org.

Health & Rehabilitation LifeTimes is a publication of Center McHarrie Life Senior Community

Assisted Resid

7740 Meigs Road Baldwinsville, New York 13027 315-638-2521

McHarrie Life

Together, as ever, as one.

Mark Murphy, CEO

LifeTimes Editor: Kelly O’Neill-Rossi Foundation Director, Development & Marketing

If you would like to add/remove your mailing address information, please email krossi@mcharrielife.org.

McHarrie Life Senior Community is a not-for-profit organization that offers a continuum of healthcare programs and services for older adults including; independent living at McHarrie Towne, assisted living and memory care at McHarrie Pointe, and short-term rehabilitation and skilled nursing care at McHarrie Place. All programs and services are conveniently located at 7740 Meigs Road in Baldwinsville, New York.

FALL/WIN T ER 2023

Q& A 2

Inside this Issue

with McHarrie Life Staff

10

Meet Vivian Ludwigsen

16

Volunteer

4 With A Little Help From My Friends

6 LIVING LIFE

with Gratitude

and make a difference today

The content in this magazine is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other healthcare professional. Do not make any changes to your lifestyle, diet, medication or exercise routine without first discussing it with your doctor.

No information in this magazine should be used to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease or condition.

Please consult with the appropriate medical professional for all of your healthcare needs and concerns.

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Q& A FALL/WINTER 2023

for your health

Q:

My mother recently moved to Syracuse Home and is excited to participate in the day trips and restaurant dining. My question is, how does she pay for her activities?

A:

The majority of our resident activities are free. A few exceptions to this are day trips, shopping, restaurant visits, and take-out meal orders. All residents have personal accounts managed by our business office. Residents and family members are welcome to deposit money in their personal accounts. Once an activity is confirmed, your mom will sign a withdrawal slip requesting a specific dollar amount from her personal account. Our activities team will handle the payment of the outing.

Our residents look forward to these special outings, and we strive to keep them affordable for all.

—Teri Tarolli, Activities Director, Syracuse Home

Q:

My father is becoming more forgetful, so I recently moved him into my home to help keep him safe. Unfortunately, aside from a few weekly visits from family members, he sits home alone most of the day while I am working. He was always a very active and sociable person. I feel guilty thinking about other living options for him, but I’ve noticed his dementia symptoms are worsening, and I don’t know what to do.

A:

It is an emotional and stressful time for caregivers trying to provide loving care for their loved ones. Fortunately, one of the best things you can do is explore memory care programs that will help him live an active, social lifestyle. Our Sage Court Memory Care residents lead happy, fulfilling lives in the comfort and safety of our home-like community. We provide opportunities for our residents to learn, grow, and thrive. Remarkably, family members often see their loved one improve after they settle into their new home at Sage Court. Our activities program offers a variety of daily activities, exercise classes, conversations, crafts, art projects, special events, musical performances, and much more. Our program also provides healthy, delicious meals, assistance with medication, and personal care. To learn more about our affordable, luxury memory care living, give us a call at 315-638-2525.

—Maggie Reap, Director of Residential Services, Sage Court Memory Care at McHarrie Pointe

FALL/WINTER 2023

Q:

A:

Are there any ways I can find help with paying for my loved one to live in a long-term care facility?

Planning for long-term care can be overwhelming and stressful. Family members often ask about any additional resources to help with the cost of care. Paying for this care depends largely on the environment they will live in (nursing home, assisted living, home, or hospital) and the types of services that are needed. Most insurance policies may have limited (if any) benefits to pay for long-term care. A resident will often need to rely on other ways to pay for it such as using their own money/resources, government programs and/or long-term care insurance. It benefits to pre-plan a need for nursing home placement, and often families will hire an elder law attorney.

Qualified adults can apply for health programs such as Medicaid and Medicare (dependent on eligibility requirements). Medicare is a health insurance program that can help to pay for some medical costs for those 65 or older. For specific information or to enroll in Medicare, you can call Medicare at 1-800-633-4227

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or visit Medicare.gov for more information.

Medicaid is a program for low-income people. This program may cover the cost of medical care and some types of long-term care for people who have limited income and meet other eligibility requirements. There are specific requirements for those residents living in a nursing home, and the application process is lengthy. For specific information about NYS Medicaid for long-term care, call 315-435-2928 (this number is for Onondaga County residents).

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) can help to assist in finding services/programs that a vet may qualify for. Contact your local VA office for assistance.

—Kristina Poff, B.S., M.S. Ed.

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FALL/WINTER 2023

With A Little Help From My

FRIENDS With A Little

Help From

My

D

o you remember the popular 1967 Beatles song,“With a Little Help from My Friends?”

Well, studies show that our friends can have a positive, lasting impact on our lives. Just ask 83-year-old Ringo Starr, lead singer of this catchy tune and a firm believer in the positivity of lifelong friendships. “I was in a band, and I had three brothers. I’m an only child, so that was great for me—it was a super-incredible connection of peace and love,” Starr said about the Beatles.

“I still miss John and George, but that’s how life is. Paul and I are still great friends, and we support each other.” Famous musicians or not, we could all use a little help from our friends.

What are the benefits of friendships?

Friendship is actually good for your health. Friends help you celebrate life’s milestones and provide support during hard times. They also help you feel less alone and more connected to a greater purpose.

Adults with strong social connections and relationships have a reduced risk of significant health problems, high blood pressure, depression, and an unhealthy weight. Studies have found that older adults who are socially connected and have meaningful relationships are likely to live longer than their peers with fewer connections.

Why do I feel like it’s difficult to make new friends and maintain friendships?

Attend community events. Look for groups or clubs that share a common interest or hobby. You may find these groups online, in the newspaper, or on community bulletin boards at the YMCA, senior centers, churches, and libraries. There are also websites that may help you connect with new friends in your neighborhood or city. Visit www. meetup.com for groups in your community.

Volunteer. Offer your time or talents to a local charitable organization of interest. It’s an excellent opportunity to meet like-minded people dedicated to a cause close to your heart.

Don’t cancel. It’s easy to cancel plans when you are tired, or maybe you aren’t in the mood to socialize. Try to rally through these feelings and follow through with your plans. The hardest part is resisting the urge to hunker down on the couch and binge watch Netflix. Give yourself a push out the door and meet your friend. You won’t regret it.

Do more than just wave hello. Stop and talk with neighbors, especially those you haven’t formally met. Shake their hand, introduce yourself, and remember their name next time you see them. It will most definitely lead to new friendships.

ISTOCK PHOTO

Simply said, you may feel overwhelmed and exhausted. Unfortunately, our busy lives of working, caring for loved ones, and other obligations can deplete our energy and inhibit socializing. In time, you may also find that you have less in common with long-time friends due to changes in lifestyle and interests.

Making new friends and maintaining old friendships takes time and effort. Although you may not see your friends often, try to schedule at least one social outing a month. It’s not an overwhelming commitment and will give you something to look forward to.

What are some ways to meet new people?

FALL/WINTER 2023

Friendships Abound at McHarrie Towne!

With A Little

Help From

My

“Our residents love to get on the road to explore, dine and sometimes just ride. We have residents that are new to the area and it’s fun to take them and share our blessings in Central New York.

Besides the outings, popular activities include ladies’ lunch and special celebrations such as Mardi Gras, Halloween, Christmas, spring, and summer festivities. We had over sixty people in the pavilion for an ice cream social in May! The small boutique-type trips work especially well for residents who can’t do large trips on big buses. Trips are scheduled based on our residents’ ideas and suggestions.”

—Rita Nadzan, Activities Director, McHarrie Towne

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FALL/WINTER 2023

LIVING LIFE

Fran and Sally Lou enjoying a winter hike at Chimney Bluffs, Lake Ontario.

FALL/WINTER 2023

Fran and Sally Lou’s family gathers at their home for the holidays each year. Shown are their daughters, sons-in-law (Travis Corley and Tom Clark) and grandchildren.

By: Audrey Gibbs, Director of Philanthropy

F

ran Nichols joined McHarrie Life Foundation Board of Directors in 1997 and what a win that was for the entire organization. Serving as Foundation Board President for a number of years, he was also part of the Life Board during his presidency. Fran brought his keen financial mind, advertising and public relations background, and consistently positive outlook among many other talents that advance the mission of the Foundation.

A humble, kind, and affable person, the question begs to be asked, how can someone be this way all the time? Without hesitation Fran says he is immensely grateful for the people who supported him throughout his life. He is cognizant of mentors, and fondly recalls those who sponsored him both personally and professionally.

Fran is clear in explaining that he can point to five people who enriched his life, changing it for the better. Because of these experiences, he decided long ago to pay it forward by being a mentor and friend to those in need of support or direction; and he does indeed help others.

Fran grew up on Tulip Street in the village of Liverpool and recalls that the village was small, and neighbors took care of each other. His family had a number of challenges. In her mid-life, his mother went to school to become a teacher. His father owned a moving company that floundered after a fire destroyed all of his trucks. His father pushed forward as best he could. Fran’s older brother passed away at the early age of 43. Fran maintains a close relationship with his sister, Sally Sass.

Among the first to support him was his aunt, who was instrumental in his upbringing. Embracing him as one of her own, Fran was close to his six

Grandson Thomas Clark’s graduation from Canterbury Preparatory School in New Milford, Connecticut

cousins who were more like siblings. The parents of his childhood friends were extremely kind to him, including him in family activities and outings.

A friend’s father, Ernie Hirschoff, owned Liverpool Sports Center, and treated Fran to all the gear, equipment, and lift tickets along with rides to and from skiing — a sport which was usually only accessible to those with means. He is grateful for those people who showed him great kindness.

It so happens that his wife, Sally Lou, also grew up on Tulip Street. Fran was her family’s paperboy.

Married for 53 years, the couple has known each other since kindergarten. They began dating at the age of sixteen, graduated from Liverpool High School, before the new, present-day high school was built. At the age of twenty-three, Fran and Sally Lou were married, naturally in their hometown of Liverpool. Sally Lou was a secretary at General Foods for five years until 1975 when Amy, their first child, was born. Their second daughter, Molly, was born in 1983. A sweet story of a charming couple.

Consistently true to his decision to mentor and help others, Fran often tells young people: “never burn a bridge.” This was a lesson he learned after working for John Testone, a career baseball player, who later became a CPA. Fran is grateful for how much responsibility Testone gave him and the tremendous amount he learned, early in his career. Fran moved from the Testone CPA firm to become the comptroller of another company. When that company was acquired in 1974 by a national company, Fran was offered the comptrollership of its Greensboro, NC branch. Deciding that they did not

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FALL/WINTER 2023

Fran Nichols, Vice Chairman Emeritus and Director of Stock Ownership Plan Eric Mower & Associates

“I have learned over my years of community service that philanthropy takes on many forms.

It is not just about financial gifts — philanthropy also includes the gift of one’s time or talent or a simple helping hand when needed.

The McHarrie Life community is a wonderful example of philanthropy in action. There are faithful donors who generously share their financial resources and there is also a cadre of volunteers who ensure that those resources are put to their best use in support of our seniors who call the McHarrie Life community home. It enables us to focus on the quality of life for residents — not just the essentials of life.”

wish to relocate to the South, Fran needed to identify his next career opportunity. As luck would have it, Fran and Sally Lou ran into Testone and his wife. John Testone told him he knew someone who was looking for a comptroller.

That someone was Eric Mower of Eric Mower and Associates, a small Syracuse advertising firm that grew to nine offices along the East Coast. Fran became its comptroller, leading the way to an esteemed career in adver­ tising until he retired as Vice Chairman in 2016. Fran harkens back to this being one more example of “never burning a bridge” and never minimizing the role that fate plays in one’s life.

Fran describes Eric as his last mentor, but not just professionally. For the first time in his life, Fran learned about philanthropy, community involvement, and serving on a board of directors.

From a business standpoint, Fran says he built the confidence to do things he did not think he could do. From senior-level contract negotiations, agency profitability, human resources, finance, information and technology, mergers and acquisitions, and all aspects of facilities planning, Eric trusted him completely, and it was a tremendous gift.

Retiring from EMA in 2016, Fran is Vice Chairman, Emeritus of the agency and continues as Director of its Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). He

—Fran Nichols

enjoys numerous volunteer board affiliations including McHarrie Life Foundation and Investment/Finance Committee, Chairing the Boards of Syracuse Stage, YMCA of CNY, Syracuse Symphony Orchestra (Symphoria), RLS Career Center, and Treasurer of the Syracuse Rescue Mission Alliance. In special recognition, Fran has received the Chairman’s Medallion for Community Service from Catholic Charities of CNY, and “Music Man” of the Year award from Syracuse Symphony Orchestra.

Throughout his distinguished career Fran has served his profession as past chair of the Finance Committee of the American Association of Advertising Agencies, member of the mid-size Agencies Operator’s Forum, Financial Panelist of the National Advertisers Conference, and as a member of the Taxpayer Advisory Council, NYS Department of Taxation and Finance.

Fran with daughter, Molly Corley and granddaughter, Hannah Corley enjoying a day of family skiing at Labrador.

FALL/WINTER 2023

More than a business relationship and mentor, Fran and Eric have been friends for 48 years. Fran shares that Eric and his wife Judy have been there for him and Sally Lou during good times and some not so good times; always gracious, always the first to reach out in tangible ways. Fran will say that he is incredibly fortunate to have people in his life who did extraordinary things for him.

Meanwhile…more than just keeping the home fires burning, Fran credits his wife with being extremely active in their daughters’ lives and activities in and out of school. Additionally, Sally Lou was a mentor in Baldwinsville Schools, which she found very fulfilling. Many times, she moved with the kids she mentored from middle school all the way to high school. Quietly and privately, she mentored seven kids for over twenty-five years. She has stayed in touch with them, with graduation gifts, holiday, and birthday cards, remaining a supportive person in their lives. A favorite story: the couple was having their kitchen remodeled and one of the contractors walked in saying, “Mrs. Nichols, do you remember me?” One of the boys she mentored for three years was one of the crew. Sally Lou, like her husband, believes in helping others.

An active couple, Fran and Sally Lou have been downhill skiers since early in their marriage. Fran swims two miles a day (and has been a swimmer at the Y since he was in his early thirties) and runs five miles a day on the weekends. He says swimming and running all his working years helped clear his mind, prioritize, set an agenda for the day, and problem solve. Fran runs year-round, loves running outside, and taking different routes. Over the years he has enjoyed meeting different people to swim and run with; many of these acquaintances have become enjoyable friendships. The Y has played an important role in Fran’s life and health — he co-chaired the successful capital campaign for the Northwest Y located in Baldwinsville.

Sally Lou would say her first love and greatest involvement is her grandchildren, who she takes care of at least once a week. Additionally, they sail. Early in their marriage they bought a small sailboat and have loved sailing ever since. Together they enjoy five weeks of sailing in the US and Canada on Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River aboard Ad Lib, their 44-foot sailboat.

The Nichols clan on one of their family vacations in the Cayman Islands.

If you were to ask Fran Nichols what the most important thing in his life is, he would unequivocally say: my family. Fran and Sally Lou have two daughters and five grandchildren (ranging in age from 3 to 28). They feel truly fortunate that their daughters and their families live in CNY. In fact, since 1983, with their daughters, Amy, and Molly, and now with their husbands, and children, the entire Nichols family looks forward to vacationing in the Cayman Islands, which they do every other year.

Fran and Sally Lou are also former McHarrie Life family members. Fran’s mother, Loretta Nichols was a former resident, and Sally Lou’s Aunt Sophie was a resident. Sophia Graze, having been 45 years older than Sally Lou, is actually her second cousin that she always called Aunt Sophie, but that’s another fun story.

The Foundation staff and board of directors are deeply grateful to Fran for his 26 years of volunteerism, generous philanthropy, fine stewardship, and friendship.

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FALL/WINTER 2023

Name that Commercial!

T

rivia is a popular activity for people of all ages.

The term “trivia” dates back to the year 1589.

It refers to insignificant pieces of information, which were interesting to only a select few. It wasn’t until the 20th century that trivia became associated with the fun and games we see today.

Fortunately, the benefits of playing trivia games go beyond enjoyment.

Studies show that playing trivia can keep your mind sharp, improve your memory, and enhance problem-solving skills.

Are you ready to test your knowledge of popular American television commercials? Let’s begin!

1. What product slogan was, “plop, plop, fizz, fizz, oh what a relief it is?”

d Goody’s Headache Powder d Alka Seltzer d Pepcid AC d Bromo Selzer

Answers: Alka Seltzer, 7-UP, Timex, Tang, Terrific, Egg, Mentos Candies, Dunkin’ Donuts, Irish Spring Soap, Mr. Whipple, Palmolive Dish Detergent, Hallmark Cards

FALL/WINTER 2023

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8. “Time to make the donuts” was the slogan for which donut store?

d Krispy Krème d Happy Donuts d Mr. Donut d Dunkin’ Donuts

9. Which product claimed it was “as clean as a whistle?”

2. Which soft drink boasted that it “never had it, never will?”

d Mountain Dew d Sprite d 7-Up d Pepsi

3. “It takes a licking and keeps on ticking” is the slogan for what brand of wristwatch?

d Bulova d Timex d Casio d Citizen

4. Starting in the 1960s, which product was billed as the astronaut drink?

d Florida orange juice d Milk d Columbia coffee d Tang

5. Think back to the 1970s for the name of this hair product. It was called, “Gee, your hair smells ” 6. Finish this products slogan, “The incredible, edible ” 7. What product is known as “The Freshmaker?”

d Trident d Tide d Colgate toothpaste d Mentos candy

d Coast soap d Jergens hand soap d Boraz cleanser d Irish Spring soap

10. If you got caught squeezing the Charmin, who would you have to look out for?

d Mr. Hooper d Madge d Mr. Whipple d Mr. Roper

11. Do you remember Madge of commercial fame? She was giving people a manicure in the local grocery store and wound up soaking her clients’ hands in which product?

d Pine Sol cleaner d Dawn dish soap d Purex laundry detergent d Palmolive dish detergent

12. Which greeting card company’s slogan is, “When you care enough to send the very best?”

d Carlton Cards d American Greetings d Hallmark Cards d Personal Touch Cards

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FALL/WINTER 2023

Meet

Vivian Ludwigsen, Retiring After Nearly Three Decades of Service at Syracuse Home How long have you worked at Syracuse Home?

Over 28 years

Vivian and her beloved dog, Buddy

What position did you start in?

I was hired as the Nurse Manager of Unit 3. This was a long-term care unit at that time and the staff on the Unit told me when I started that they sprinkled fairy dust in my office so that I’d stay.

What is your current title?

Director of Nursing How long have you been in your latest role?

Over 20 years.

Where did you work before here, and what did you do?

I worked at Harrwood Nursing Home in Oswego as the Assistant Director of Nursing. I was there for 18 years until it went out of business.

What made you choose a career in nursing?

Did someone inspire you?

I was fresh out of high school, and a friend encouraged me to get a job as a nurse’s aide. Certification was not

required back then. After working as a nurse’s aide for about a year, my mother encouraged me to continue my education as an LPN. Where did you attend college/nursing school?

After working a few years as an LPN, I pursued my RN at Onondaga Community College, where I graduated in 1982.

How many staff members do you supervise?

Approximately 95 staff.

What are the greatest challenges in your position?

Maintaining staff numbers so we can provide quality care for our residents.

What do you feel are your greatest accomplishments?

Getting through the COVID epidemic successfully, however, I attribute most of it to the quality of care our staff provided during that challenging time.

How many children/grandchildren do you have?

Two sons, Brian and Robert, and my dog, Buddy.

Where did you grow up?

Mexico, New York.

FALL/WINTER 2023

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Vivian at her LPN graduation ceremony Vivian visiting Ireland

What do you love the most about your job?

The residents and the comradery of my co-workers.

What will you miss the most about your job?

The residents and staff, of course!

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Auctions, antiquing and collectibles, traveling, cooking, theatre, casinos, furniture refinishing, sewing, and gardening.

What are your plans for retirement?

My additional goals for retirement are scrapbooking my children’s lives as they grew up, studying my ancestry, home winemaking, daily walks with my dog, and getting back into gardening. I also plan to increase the time I spend doing the activities listed in the previous question!

Best wishes to you, Vivian, as you start this new chapter in your life. Thank you for your t. en rtm pa de ng rsi nu r ou to n tio ca di de d an rk hard wo W e are grateful for your commitment to providing exceptional healthcare to thousands of t! en em tir re py ap H er. re ca ur yo ut ho ug ro th residents

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FALL/WINTER 2023

D

O

A

N

!

Have Your Cookie EA

T I T,

O T

enjoy a cookie to ay w er tt be t ha W t! er Life is short, so have dess llop of ice cream on top? do a ith w en ov e th of t than right ou

Ingredients

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour er 2 teaspoons baking powd 1 teaspoon baking soda ½ teaspoon salt 1 cup unsalted butter r 1 cup packed brown suga ½ cup sugar

Instructions

1 large egg 2 large egg yolks ct 3 teaspoons vanilla extra milk or semi, ips 10 ounces chocolate ch sweet, your choice! ping flaked salt, for top

rees F.

0 Preheat the oven to 350 deg , soda, and salt. the flour, baking powder er eth tog isk heat up for 5 wh l, bow a 0 In r low heat. Let the skillet ove llet ski ch -in 12 n!) iro on. Turn off ly cast 0 Heat an oven safe (preferabd let it melt completely. Stir in the sugars with a wooden spofrom the

an also remove the skillet minutes. Add the butter turn off the heat! You can ST MU u Yo . llet ski the the heat under re and mix in right burner if you wish. it to the skillet sugar mixtu d Ad l. bow a in ks yol egg nilla extract.

0 Whisk together the egg andmixing so the eggs don’t cook from the heat. Stir in the va ly o and the mixture will be away with a spoon, quick is will take a minute or tw Th ed. bin com t jus til paper towel to un 0 Stir in the dry ingredients You can wipe the top of the skillet or the sides with a damp thick, but they will mix in! in the remove excess flour. tes, or until it’s mostly set cookie for 20 to 25 minu llet ski the ke Ba ps. chi 0 Stir in the chocolate salt. center. Top with flaked sea ice cream.

Serve warm with vanilla

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FALL/WINTER 2023

What’s our residents favorite “meal” of the day?

DESSERT!

Whether it’s homemade cookies, pies, or ice cream, everyone has a sweet tooth!

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FALL/WINTER 2023

Volunteer! and make a difference today

I

t’s a holly jolly time of year to deck the halls at McHarrie Life. Join our volunteer team and help celebrate all the wonderful activities and events that bring happiness to our residents’ lives every day.

During the holiday season, activities include holiday baking projects, crafts, games, gift wrapping, Christmas shopping, and much more. There are also plenty of daily volunteer opportunities available during the day and evening including happy hour, cards and games, bingo, manicures, church services, and much more!

There is no minimum hourly requirement, and volunteers are encouraged to sign up for activities that best fit their personal interests and schedule. “If you have a special talent or presentation to share, we welcome you! In the past, our volunteers shared sports memorabilia, travel photos, played instruments, led a craft project, and hosted sing-a-longs,” says Jessica Lynch, volunteer coordinator.

On average, McHarrie Life depends on approximately 150

volunteers to assist with activities and events throughout the year, so the need is always ongoing.

“We can never have too many volunteers. With nearly 200 residents living in assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing, there is always something to do,” says Lynch.

2023 Honoree

Our volunteer program recently awarded Sandra Horan with the Jim Hoffman Award for Volunteer Excellence for her unwavering commitment to helping our residents with baking, trivia, Catholic Mass, Bingo, and Happy Hour. She also helps with trips and other activities for both the nursing home and assisted living program.

The award was established in 2012 after beloved Syracuse Home volunteer, Jim Hoffman, died unexpectedly. Jim was a kind, gentle soul who truly made a difference in our residents’ lives by leading the monthly men’s group, gardening with the residents, assisting with day trips, coordinating education programs, and much more. In memory of his volunteer spirit, this annual award recognizes volunteers who go

above and beyond to comfort and befriend residents, helping them live their very best lives.

It is an honor for our staff to work with such a dedicated group of volunteers. “Each year, we recognize our volunteers during National Volunteer Week, and host an appreciation event to thank everyone for sharing their time and talents with us,” says Lynch.

Do you have an hour or two to spare? Call Jessica Lynch, volunteer coordinator, at 315-3031134 to learn more about our remarkable volunteer program.

FALL/WINTER 2023

Volunteer Sandra Horan was awarded McHarrie Life Volunteer of the Year in 2023.

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MCHARRIE LIFE FOUNDATION

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE

7740 MEIGS ROAD BALDWINSVILLE, NY 13027

PAID BALDWINSVILLE NY PERMIT #6

Join our

Auxiliary

& make a difference in the lives of others...

There are so many great ways to get involved! *Assist with activities & day trips for residents *Deliver welcome gifts to new residents *Visit residents with our special book cart *Assist with Sunday religious services *Volunteer at our gift shop *Help organize our bake sale, ice cream social, & fall craft fair *Work on special projects & gifts *Knit/crochet/sew lap blankets and wheelchair bags *Create fresh flower vases for residents *Share a special talent or expertise *Teach residents a new skill or craft *Join a specific committee of interest There is no minimum hourly requirement to join, and there are plenty of opportunities to get involved-including working from home! Membership dues are just $5 a year.

Give us a call today. We’d love to meet you!

315-303-1134