July 24, 2025
At JNH, we believe that one person truly can make a difference. This month, we’re proud to shine a light on three incredible individuals – two staff members and one resident – whose unique contributions have brought joy, inspiration, and connection to our community.
Autumn Francis: Turning Creativity into Connection
Anyone who knows Autumn Francis, a valued member of our Life Enrichment team at the Leavitt Family Jewish Home, knows she radiates positivity. Whether through her cheerful and upbeat demeanor, her beautiful singing voice, or her natural artistic talent, Autumn brings warmth and energy to everything she does.
A standout performer in our annual talent shows, Autumn has recently turned her attention to the walls and windows of our community—literally. Using her creative gifts, she has been transforming our shared spaces into bright, welcoming, and uplifting environments filled with color and meaning.
“I don’t want it to feel like a nursing home,” Autumn says. “This is people’s home.”
That philosophy inspired the creation of one of her most impactful projects: the Positivity Wall in the dining room of the A-1 household, where Autumn leads daily activities. Faced with a large, blank wall, she envisioned a space that would both engage residents and offer daily encouragement.
She invited residents to paint canvas shapes of all sizes in bold, expressive colors that reflected their personalities and moods. She then added handwritten messages of hope and motivation to each piece. The result is a vibrant mosaic—reminiscent of a stained glass window—filled with affirmations such as:
- “Think Positive”
- “Dream”
- “Compassion”
- “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream”
- “Be like a tree. Stay grounded. Keep growing. And know when to let go.”
Autumn also brought residents together to paint colorful puzzle pieces, which she assembled into a heart surrounded by words like “Laughter,” “Love,” “Joy,” and “Happy.” The Positivity Wall has since become a focal point – not just visually, but emotionally. Residents beam with pride when they see their work on display. Families and staff frequently stop to admire and reflect.
But Autumn didn’t stop there. Her imaginative paintings have found their way to the dining room windows, now featuring lively underwater scenes that spark curiosity and conversation. The windows of our coffee shop have been transformed with cheerful depictions of coffee mugs, sundaes, and floral designs that make every visit feel a little more special.
There’s no telling where Autumn’s creativity will land next—but one thing is certain: her passion, positivity, and artistic spirit continue to brighten the lives of all who live and work here. Thank you, Autumn, for sharing your light with our community.
John “Johnny” Scalia and Michael Wolf Receive Nominations for Awards from the Massachusetts Assisted Living Association (Mass ALA):
John “Johnny” Scalia, a cherished resident of Ruth’s House, was recently nominated for the Resident Spirit Award by former Executive Director Jessica Spezzano. “Johnny is an absolute one-of-a-kind resident—but even more, a one-of-a-kind human being,” Spezzano shared. “DJ Johnny, and one of the biggest Yankee fans I know, is truly the glue that holds resident engagement together and the reason for so many smiles in the Ruth’s House community.”
Johnny’s passion for music is not only a personal source of joy but also a gift he shares with others, creating a vibrant, uplifting atmosphere for all. Thank you, Johnny!
Michael Wolf, Program Director of the Garden Neighborhood at Ruth’s House, was also nominated by Spezzano for the Program Innovation Award. “Michael is an exceptional, bright, compassionate, and patient individual who gives his all in everything he does,” she wrote. “Whether facilitating a happy hour or introducing virtual reality experiences, his creativity and innovation with technology have transformed daily life for our seniors.”
Michael has led the way in integrating tools like VR headsets and large-screen technology to create meaningful and calming experiences for our memory care residents. His fresh perspective and forward-thinking approach consistently bring joy and connection to those he serves.
Although other individuals were ultimately selected as award recipients, we are incredibly proud of Johnny and Michael’s nominations. These recognitions are a testament to their compassion, generous spirit, and unwavering dedication to the residents and the Ruth’s House community.
Thank you, Autumn, Johnny, and Michael, for being an essential part of our vibrant, caring communities. Whether through a brushstroke, a kind word, a shared musical moment, or a calming virtual journey, you remind us daily of the power one person has to make a lasting difference.
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