Get to Know Jill Hemeon, Area Director of Community Relations
Jill Hemeon has an affinity for the elder generation. “I never had the chance to meet all four of my grandparents as they unfortunately passed away before I was born. As a result, I have always had an appreciation for the senior population,” remarks Jill. “My close friends actually tease me that I treat their grandparents like my own. I love talking to them and hearing their stories. Guess I’m just an old soul at heart!”
Growing up in Danvers, Jill was the youngest of three children. Today her loving, close-knit family all live near one another and Jill’s parents still reside in the family home that she grew up in! Currently Jill and her boyfriend, Matthew, live in Medford. The couple met in college and reconnected a few years later. The rest, as they say, is history.
Jill began her career working for experience alongside studying Hospitality Management at the University of New Hampshire. It was a logical choice as she enjoyed talking to people and helping them navigate their travel plans. She flourished working in the hotel industry until Covid hit and travel basically became nonexistent. In retrospect, the pandemic ended up shaping the course of her Jill’s career. She applied for a variety of jobs and after a few different opportunities, she found her niche: working with seniors and their families while guiding them through the transition to senior living communities. Jill joined the Legacy Lifecare family in 2021 as the Director of Community Relations at Edelweiss Village Assisted Living, an affiliate of Legacy Lifecare.
In her current role as Area Director of Community Relations, Jill works closely with the organization’s Marketing and Communications team, assisting all communities within Legacy Lifecare. Jill feels fortunate to be part of the Legacy Lifecare organization. “I have worked at other senior living companies, but I can honestly say there is something different and very special about Legacy Lifecare,” said Jill. “Perhaps it is because we are a nonprofit. In any event, it’s obvious that Legacy Lifecare truly cares about its residents, staff, family members and community partners. My role enables me to visit all the different campuses and see, firsthand, how many lives are touched each and every day.”
Residents and family members make a huge impact on Jill. “I really like interacting with seniors and hearing their stories. Each one is so unique. There is a wonderful 104-year-old woman at Harriett & Ralph Kaplan Estates who encourages me to take the stairs instead of the elevator,” said Jill. “She insists it will keep me young!” Another family member greets Jill with a big hug every time he sees her. “He tells me how grateful he is for helping his family explore long-term care at the German Centre Home and how they can sleep at night knowing their mother is well-cared for in a safe environment.” Adds Jill, “This is what inspires me to do my job!”
In her spare time, Jill enjoys trying new restaurants and cuisines. “I am definitely a foodie!” Puzzles are also a passion. “You can always find a 1000-piece puzzle being worked on in my home,” said Jill. As both Jill and Matthew grew up with dogs, they plan on getting one of their own as soon as their life calms down a bit and they have the time needed to become dog parents. Meanwhile, Jill’s role as “Auntie” to her four beautiful nieces (two who are twins) brings her countless hours of fun and surprises. “The girls are an absolute joy.”
When asked what she likes best about her job, Jill is quick to respond. “It is so rewarding to help individuals, and their family members make the transition to senior living, especially when it is what’s needed for a higher quality of life. There is nothing better than seeing a resident settle in their new home. In fact, I never tire of hearing a family member tell me they can’t get in touch with their loved one because they are too busy socializing at an activity or up walking with physical therapy working on gaining strength back. That is music to my ears!”
