Richard Halpern Receives the 2024 Chair’s Service Award at JGS Lifecare’s Annual Meeting
JGS Lifecare celebrated its 2024 Annual Meeting on Tuesday, October 8, 2024. The event brought together a community of supporters to acknowledge recent accomplishments, discuss future plans, and honor the contributions of longtime board member Richard Halpern.
“We were thrilled to gather with our community to share our ongoing efforts to enhance the quality of life for our residents and recognize the extraordinary service of Richard Halpern,” said Robert Whitten, President of JGS Lifecare. “Richard has had a significant impact on our success in raising community philanthropic support to make ongoing campus renovations and expansions possible. He has also enhanced our programs and services. I am delighted he is getting recognition for his commitment to JGS Lifecare and the people we serve.”
Highlights of the meeting included speeches from Dr. Stuart Anfang, Chairman of the JGS Lifecare board; Robert Whitten, President of JGS Lifecare; and Adam Berman, CEO of JGS Lifecare. Barry Berman, CEO of Chelsea Jewish Lifecare, the managerial partner of JGS Lifecare, offered reflections on the current state of the eldercare industry. Special presentations were made by Senator Jake Oliveira and Representative Brian Ashe, who extended congratulations to Richard Halpern on behalf of the Massachusetts Senate and House of Representatives.
Barry Berman emphasized the success of the Green House® Model in improving the quality of life for seniors, announcing plans to incorporate these principles into upcoming renovations at the 5-star quality rated Leavitt Family Jewish Home. “The renovations at The Leavitt Family Jewish Home will adhere to the Green House® principles that have proven so effective at the Sosin Center for Rehabilitation,” stated Berman. “This will earn the Home the distinction of becoming a Legacy Green House title reserved for facilities that have successfully implemented this innovative model of care. We are excited to gain community support to ensure JGS Lifecare continues to be the crown jewel of eldercare in western Massachusetts.”
The meeting culminated with the presentation of the Chair’s Service Award to Richard Halpern. “It is a great pleasure to pay tribute to Richard,” said JGS Board Chair Dr. Stuart Anfang. “Richard has held numerous leadership positions over his more than 40 years of service. His unwavering dedication to the elderly and to advancing the mission of JGS Lifecare is truly inspiring.”
In his acceptance speech, Halpern acknowledged the many leaders who have inspired him throughout his tenure, particularly Julian Leavitt, who recruited him to the board in 1976. “Julian was a visionary leader and a wonderful mentor. When Julian talked, people listened. It’s been rewarding to see his children continue his legacy of compassion and commitment, which is why the Home proudly bears the Leavitt Family name,” Halpern remarked.
Looking ahead, Halpern expressed his excitement about co-chairing the upcoming Transforming Lifecare Campaign with former board chair Susan Goldsmith. “This campaign will transform our living environment for residents, introducing a residential model that offers the highest standards of comfort and dignity,” said Halpern. ”This transformation is about more than bricks and mortar; it’s about creating a true home for our residents — a place where they feel safe, loved and valued.”
