Our most recent Providence Life Services newsletter, with stories telling the stories of how we live out our mission through our communities and with our services.
Providence LIFE SERVICES ISSUE No. 1 | 2024
Answering the call to enhance the lives of those we serve in the name of Jesus Christ.
PROVIDENCE MISSION
PROVIDENCE LEADERSHIP 2024-2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Tim Breems Paul Buikema Chair
MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS By Chair Paul Buikema
Here’s a statistic that may surprise you: According to the Alzheimer’s Association, about 1 in 9 people age 65 and older have Alzheimer’s disease, which comes out to about 6.9 million people. As the amount of people age 65 and older grows, it’s projected that, by the year 2050, America will have 12.7 million
Ed Damstra III Dave DeGraff Ted Feenstra Ken Hoving Vice Chair
Karen Huizenga Secretary/Treasurer Patti Jabaay Arnold Koldenhoven Gary Leo Rob Petroelje Darren VanEssen Asst. Secretary/Treasurer David Voss Dr. Eric Woo Kyle Yonker BOARD OF GOVERNORS Jacob Groenewold Chair Don DeGraff Justin Kats Bastian Knoppers
citizens afflicted with Alzheimer’s. On a related note, the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease reported that those who experience the loss of a spouse are 50% more likely than others to show signs of dementia within three to six months following their bereavement. Mental health is as important as physical health; in fact, research continues to show that physical activity helps stimulate mental activity. A recent article from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that regular physical activity can reduce our risk for cognitive decline while promoting emotional health and our abilities to think, learn, and problem-solve. What do these statistics and research studies mean for us at Providence? It is now more vital than ever to continue our commitment to walking alongside those with memory issues. In this newsletter, you’ll read about the remodeling that’s underway on the Memory Care wing at Victorian Village. We have several programs designed to meet the needs of those with memory decline. We will also introduce you to different strategies and interventions designed to keep our brains as active as possible for as long as possible. This includes addressing emotional needs related to grief and loss by hosting GriefShare groups to facilitate walking the path of grieving in community. We could not enhance the lives of those we serve in these ways without your gracious help. Thank you all for supporting us through your generosity.
Dave Larsen Bruce Leep Dick Molenhouse
Cal Tameling Don Van Dyk Richard Van Hattem Dr. Eric Woo Liaison to Board of Directors
Robert Workman William Zandstra
PROVIDENCE LOCATIONS & SERVICES
INDEPENDENT & ASSISTED LIVING Park Place of Elmhurst (IL)
REHABILITATION & SKILLED CARE Park Place Health & Wellness Center | ELMHURST 1150 S. Euclid Avenue (AL, SN, R, M) Elmhurst, Illinois 60126 (630) 936-4100 Park Place Health & Wellness Center | ST. JOHN 10820 Park Place (AL, SN) St. John, Indiana 46373 (219) 351-5205 Victorian Village Health & Wellness Center 12525 Renaissance Circle (SN, R, M) Homer Glen, Illinois 60491 (708) 590-5050 HOME & COMMUNITY-BASED SERVICES Providence at Home (Home Health) SERVING ILLINOIS (800) 509-2800
1050 S. Euclid Avenue Elmhurst, Illinois 60126 (630) 936-4500 Park Place Health & Wellness Center | ELMHURST (AL, SN, R, M) 1150 S. Euclid Avenue Elmhurst, Illinois 60126 (630) 936-4100 Park Place of St. John (IL) 10700 Park Place St. John, Indiana 46373 (219) 351-5200 Park Place Health & Wellness Center | ST. JOHN 10820 Park Place (AL, SN) St. John, Indiana 46373 (219) 351-5205 Royal Atrium Inn (AL) 400 Parkside Drive Zeeland, Michigan 49464 (616) 772-1248 Royal Park Place (IL) 500 Parkside Drive Zeeland, Michigan 49464 (616) 772-2224 Victorian Village (IL, AL, M)
Providence Hospice SERVING ILLINOIS AND INDIANA (800) 509-2800 AGING NAVIGATION Providence Solutions (708) 342-8100 AFFORDABLE SENIOR HOUSING Arbor Place of Lisle (AH) 4795 Karns Roads Lisle, IL 60532 (630) 637-0540 Thomas Place Senior Living (AH) 15415 South Harlem Avenue Orland Park, IL 60462 (708) 535-0474
12600 Renaissance Circle Homer Glen, Illinois 60491 (708) 301-0800 TOWNHOME LIVING Fairways at Village Woods 2681 Route 394 Crete, Illinois 60417 708) 719-9704 Victorian Courts 12600 Renaissance Circle Homer Glen, Illinois 60491 (708) 301-0800
IL | Independent Living AL | Assisted Living R | Rehab SN | Skilled Nursing M | Memory Care AH | Affordable Housing
6 Memory Care at Victorian Village has a Whole New Look 10 Providence Hospice Embraces Music & Memory Program
FEATURE STORY A New Conversation Park Place Embraces the Transformative Power of Music 14
20 Providence
Communities Offer GriefShare
ALSO IN THIS ISSUE
9 Providence at Home Celebrates Milestone 19 Victorian Village Celebrates Silver Anniversary 22 ‘Wits Workout’ at Royal Park Place Encourages Active Minds 23 Why Do I Give? 24 A Generous Community
SAVE • THE • DATE Save the date for our 62 nd Torchlight Celebration FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2024
HELD AT CHICAGO’S HISTORIC POST OFFICE BUILDING
Issue No. 1 | Providencelifeservices.com 5
6 PROVIDENCE MAGAZINE | Issue No. 1
Living Room Entry
VICTORIAN VILLAGE GIVES MEMORY CARE A REFRESH Memory Care at Victorian Village has a Whole New Look
“We’re excited to offer our residents a gorgeous place to live where they can enjoy a comforting, vibrant atmosphere,” says Jackie Terpstra, Executive Director at Victorian Village. “We’ve put thought into every detail of our Memory Care neighborhood, and you can see it on our residents’ faces.” Victorian Village has a dedication to Memory Care.
The community was recently the first Memory Care program in the state of Illinois to earn accreditation through the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO), and their Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing programs have also earned JCAHO accreditation. “Time and time again we hear from folks touring, or from vendors who visit multiple
Architect Rendering
Issue No. 1 | Providencelifeservices.com 7
VICTORIAN VILLAGE GIVES MEMORY CARE A REFRESH
communities, that when they come to the Inn, residents seem very happy and are smiling and engaging with visitors,” Jackie says. “We know we have incredible staff, so the remodel will help us add to the skill our employees bring to campus.” A unique asset about having memory care on the same campus as other senior living choices is that it helps keep families together. “That’s something people love about our community, the ability to live in different areas,” says Ariane Wilson-McClanahan, RN, Director of Clinical Services at Victorian Village. “We have cases where one spouse lives in Memory Care and the other lives in Independent Living, and they can still spend time together on campus. We provide the ability for residents to be with their loved ones even if they’re in different levels of care.” During this remodel, Victorian Village has focused on making the Memory Care community “a fun, safe, happy place to live and work,” Jackie says. “We know that if our employees have high morale and are energized by the atmosphere, that has a positive impact on the residents and their family members.”
Jackie says that part of the project was to make it a more home- like environment while also utilizing important design elements for a memory care unit. “We will enhance the living spaces for residents with cognitive impairments to include soft, soothing colors,” she says. “We have also specially chosen furniture and LED lighting so that it is adjustable, to create a calming atmosphere.” “The programming and environment here allow the residents to reconnect with some of their life roles and some of those activities that they really engaged with throughout their whole lives,” Ariane says. “We are thrilled to see our finished product.”
Living Room & Library
Resident Corridor/Dining
Living Room
Architect Rendering of the MemoryCare Unit
Use the QR code with your phone for information online. Or, if you’d like to tour Victorian Village’s remodeled Memory Care community, contact them at vv@provlife.com or (708) 301-0800.
SCAN ME
8 PROVIDENCE MAGAZINE | Issue No. 1
THIRTY YEARS OF CARE Providence at Home Celebrates Milestone
Providence’s first-ever home healthcare division was estab- lished 30 years ago to respond to the changing needs of our com- munity and has continued to grow and evolve over the past quar- ter-century. Although house calls from visiting nurses were common practice as early as the nineteenth century, the home healthcare model as it is known today emerged during the healthcare reforms of the 1990’s. Changes to insurance payment systems resulted in the traditional hospital stay being drastically shortened. Patients needed follow-up care, and Providence was there to meet the need with nursing services, physical therapy, and other forms of help in people’s homes. C
C
In 1994, Providence Home Health Care was licensed by the state of Illinois to provide in-home care for people who were not ready to move in to a retirement or care community. The division recorded 1,500 home visits in its first year, far more than anyone had envi- sioned in such a short time – em- phasizing the need for care that met people right where they lived. Two years later, Providence add- ed private duty services to its offerings, making life easier for older adults by providing bathing, dressing, light housekeeping, and other non-skilled assistance. They continue to offer these types of
services today through the Cam- pus Care programs in Illinois and Indiana, allowing Providence At Home division to serve people in their own homes, in our retirement communities, and in assisted living venues — wherever we are needed. Congratulations on 30 great years, Providence at Home! We look for- ward to many more years of your service and care.
Issue No. 1 | Providencelifeservices.com 9
10 PROVIDENCE MAGAZINE | Issue No. 1
Music Speaks PROVIDENCE HOSPICE
EMBRACES MUSIC & MEMORY PROGRAM
At first, it’s almost imperceptible, but then the finger tapping gets stronger, more regular, and right in time with the music. Now the left foot joins in, and a smile spreads across one hospice patient’s face as she listens to a Jerry Lee Lewis song from her youth. This patient has lost the use of the left side of her body and is now bedbound, but after a few minutes, she begins telling stories about the musicals she loved going to with her grandchildren in Chicago. As the memories flow, so does the palpable joy.
This kind of joy is precisely why music is such a special part of what our hospice program offers to patients. Funded by a grant from the Elea Institute, Providence Hospice volunteers and staff are trained by the Music & Memory organization, whose
goal for patients is to “engage with the world, ease pain, and reclaim their humanity through the use of personalized music.” So far, about 30 Providence Hospice patients throughout Indiana and Illinois have been a part of this program.
This hospice patient, who was a pianist and organist, is enjoying music on headphones provided by Providence.
Issue No. 1 | Providencelifeservices.com 11
MUSIC SPEAKS
“Music has always been a part of what we offer our patients,” says Annette McClain, Providence Hospice Volunteer Coordinator. “Now we’re able to use music in a much more personal way, tailored especially for each person.” Annette spearheads the Music & Memory program for Providence Hospice. “At the start of care, we ask each patient, or each patient’s family, if they are interested in this program.” Those interested answer five questions: 1 Who is your favorite singer or band? 2 Is there a song/music that makes you happy? 3 Is there a song that can always make you dance? 4 Have you been to any music concerts? Which ones? 5 What is the first album you purchased with your own money? Once Annette has more info about each patient’s taste, she curates a library of music specially for them and puts it on an MP3 player. “It’s not music therapy, but it’s definitely therapeutic music,”
Annette says. “The music starts, and something wakes up inside a person.” Some families decline visits from volunteers, but still want to participate in Music & Memory.
“Music brings out incredible stories from people,” Annette says. “One gentleman told me about his time performing in Las Vegas. He started out just filling in for someone, but then they wanted
That’s why Annette is working on a goal of training all hospice staff, as well as staff at outside facilities where our hospice patients live, to utilize the program. “It’s a help even if the
“Music brings out incredible stories from people,”
to hire him permanently. He told us his wife said no, come home, so he did. But that’s how much a part of his life music has been.” Annette watched this man listen to the music as he scooted down the halls of the senior community where he lived, humming along with a huge smile. “Seeing that made me realize—we’re on to something here.” While cultivating personal libraries of people’s favorite music is time-consuming, Annette and Jackie have seen some incredible blessings. Jackie has found donations of CDs on Facebook Marketplace, as many people are getting rid of physical copies of
staff can keep the players charged, or hand them their headphones,” Annette says. “We leave everything with the person so the music is available whenever it’s wanted.” Jackie Sinwelski, a Providence Hospice volunteer, says she’s had the pleasure of seeing what a difference it makes for patients, especially those with dementia. “Just because someone can no longer carry on a conversation doesn’t mean they don’t want to communicate,” Jackie says. “I brought in a battery-powered piano for a patient with dementia. I played a note, then another note. I watched her face light up as she began to play notes herself. It wasn’t a song or anything, but the musical notes fascinated her.”
12 PROVIDENCE MAGAZINE | Issue No. 1
music. Others have donated CD players, which help the patients who can’t wear headphones. “One person heard about the program and purchased a brand-new CD player and had it delivered,” Jackie says. “She didn’t have any connection to Providence—she just thought it was a great program and wanted to help.” This program resonates with other music lovers, and they have been inspired to get involved. On one occasion, Annette was shopping at Disc Replay in Downers Grove, looking for Jerry Lee Lewis music for a patient. The owner found out why she was looking for music and gave her the CD for free, telling her to let him know any other CDs she needed, and he would donate more music. Another time, someone specifically requested Gospel music from the Gaithers, and Annette was having trouble finding anything. A bag of donated CDs arrived and as Jackie was sorting CDs, a Gaithers CD was one of the donations. “It was such a ‘God-moment.’” Annette says.
Greta, one of the Providence Hospice volunteers, gets ready to take music to a patient.
These music donations help Providence Hospice utilize grant money for more supplies. For those looking to give, some of the most popular music genres include instrumental, soothing nature sounds, hymns, gospel, classic country, showtunes, jazz, crooners, swing music, Big Band, and Motown. Annette would like to eventually have a library of music she can use to more easily create playlists for patients. But until then, she and her volunteers will be on the hunt for just the right music the patients are requesting.
“This is such a meaningful program,” Annette says. “As Hans Christian Anderson said, ‘Where words fail, music speaks.’ And it’s so true.” If you have items you’d like to donate, you can reach Annette at amcclain@provlife.com.
Issue No. 1 | Providencelifeservices.com 13
14 PROVIDENCE MAGAZINE | Issue No. 1
A New Conversation PARK PLACE EMBRACES THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF MUSIC It’s Tuesday morning, and a group of older adults use handbells, while another individual sits and plays the piano, all in time with Lisa Targonski- Cisneros’ flute. The group has just finished a heartwarming visit with a therapy dog and her handler, and soon they’ll all eat together while music gently plays in the background. This is a glimpse of what Memory Care looks like at Park Place of Elmhurst.
Lisa, the Memory Care Life Enrichment Coordinator here, is also a Certified Music Practitioner (CMP) and a Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP). She’s been part of the Park Place family since 2017 and has used her skills and knowledge to enhance lives at the community. A long-time teacher,
as well as flutist for the Northwest Indiana Symphony, Lisa believes in the healing properties of music. “We don’t just hear music with our ears,” she says. “We feel it on our skin and in our bones. It’s physical, and it elicits positive physical reactions.”
Issue No. 1 | Providencelifeservices.com 15
A NEW CONVERSATION
“For example, a person is agitated and can’t seem to fall asleep and after a few minutes of music, they are more restful. “ In another instance, Lisa joined a resident who enjoyed Elvis and they sat, clapping and singing along. “There are many examples of music reaching a person or even a group of residents with dementia when nothing else seems to work, even if only for brief moments.” Heather Gomez, Director of Education at Providence Life Services, agrees that music is a powerful tool, particularly with Memory Care. “Music can elevate the mood, spark memories, assist with reminiscence, encourage rhythmic movement, demonstrate strengths for those who can still play an instrument or sing despite other limitations,” she
says. “We watch music help with self-expression, draw a person out of isolation and reconnect them with their identity, energize someone who is bored, calm someone who is agitated, and lead one to worship through hymns and spiritual songs. Music really reaches the whole person.” One of the residents in Memory Care is a professional musician. “Her memory issues fade when she is at the piano,” Lisa says. “If it’s Bach, Handel, hymns, or other music, she can read the music.” This resident often accompanies Lisa when she plays the flute in other parts of the campus at Park Place. Indeed, Lisa works beyond the Memory Care department, playing concerts for Assisted Living residents twice a month, playing in each doorway for
Lisa talks about how music lowers anxiety and blood pressure, as well as the way it can help respiratory function and stabilize heart rate. “During my CMP training, we had opportunities to actually watch people’s vitals improve while music played, and it was incredible.” “In researching the subject, I find much material that talks abouts the effectiveness of music and what it does for our bodies. I’ve seen music completely change a person’s disposition,” Lisa says. LEFT | Lisa Targonski-Cisneros, CMP, CDP; RIGHT | Heather Gomez, BSN, CDP, CADDCT
16 PROVIDENCE MAGAZINE | Issue No. 1
A NEW CONVERSATION
skilled nursing residents every week, and anytime Chaplain Gerry Erffmeyer asks for her musical assistance, she’s there. But often, because of her calming presence, she is someone who can encourage residents to get dressed or eat meals while singing or humming together when they’ve been previously
familiar music while observing positive changes in their mood.” She is firm in saying there is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to music for Memory Care. “I have to be mindful about the music I choose, staying in the low to mid range of my instrument for those with hearing sensitivities.” Lisa says. “Some residents
and encourage them to participate at a place that is at their comfort level,” Lisa says. “Some residents sing out with strong voices that we don’t hear in regular conversations.” Lisa is quick to say that while music is incorporated in almost every aspect of life enrichment, the residents do much more. “They enjoy crossword puzzles, flower arranging, painting and even balloon volleyball while listening to their favorite music, such as Perry Como,” Lisa says. In addition to Lisa’s work at Park Place, she volunteers with Providence Hospice as well, playing therapeutic music. “I play for each individual resident, monitoring their breathing patterns and body movements, and I adjust appropriately.” She recalls a
gravitate to hymns, others to patriotic music. My goal is to get to know each person and provide the music that can speak to them individually.”
“Some residents sing out with strong voices that we don’t hear in regular conversations.
disinterested in those activities. Music seems to be the difference. “I keep my instrument with me,” she says. “It’s my tool, and my hope is to help those having a hard day by engaging them in
When organizing group music, handbells are just one instrument the residents are involved in. “Residents also use shakers, scarves, the parachute, and various instruments to engage
Issue No. 1 | Providencelifeservices.com 17
A NEW CONVERSATION
continue to ask questions, such as ‘What did you have for lunch?’ Or ‘Did you enjoy the activity?’” she says. “They may also give long explanations which will likely frustrate or even agitate a person with dementia. Sadly, loved ones may give up, walk away, or stop visiting. Music is one strategy that may help overcome these challenges.” Lisa and Heather both hope to spread the hopeful information that music can connect people to their loved ones with memory issues. “It’s all about educating,” Lisa says. “It’s important that we never stop teaching and we never stop learning. Change when you need to change, but keep what’s working. That’s how you make sure you’re doing your best for each person, and that’s what everyone deserves.” If you know someone who is struggling with the challenges of dementia, Providence can help. Join us for one of our Alzheimer’s Support Groups.
Lisa leads a Memory Care music activity with enthusiastic residents.
hospice patient who was in his last days singing along with a hymn in perfect pitch while she played in his doorway. “You just have to be in the moment with each person,” she says. Heather encourages music to play a key role in the treatment plans and daily activities of all residents. “I’ve watched the way music can build connections between people,” she says. “Once I sat next to a resident and attempted to engage in conversation, but it was soon apparent that she had lost the ability to hold a conversation.” Heather noticed a snowman decoration nearby and Christmas
music playing softly. “I started singing ‘Frosty the Snowman’ and she joined in right away. We smiled and sang Christmas songs together for some time. The pressure of a conversation was replaced by a delightful musical engagement. I found out later that she was a singer in her younger years. Now, here she was, demonstrating her strength and reconnecting with her identity.” Heather explains that when a person with dementia is losing cognitive skills required for typical conversation (logic, reasoning, verbal skills, etc.) many loved ones don’t know what to do. “With good intentions, family and friends
SCAN ME
18 PROVIDENCE MAGAZINE | Issue No. 1
TWENTY-FIVE YEARS OF COMMUNITY Victorian Village Celebrates Silver Anniversary
It was 1995 when Providence Life Services began planning an As- sisted Living community in Homer Glen, Illinois. Four years later, the first residents moved in to the Vic- torian Inn for Assisted Living. This was the first phase of the Victorian Village community, which would grow to include Retirement Living in the Grand Victorian, Townhouse Living in the Victorian Courts, and Memory Care, Skilled Nursing, and Rehab in the Victorian Village Health & Wellness Center. In fact, the Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation services that we added to our campus in 2014 is a new model of care. “Small House” care combines the professional
skilled care of an institutional setting
Today, Victorian Village offers a full continuum of care: retirement living in our Victorian Courts
with the comfort- able, “family” feel of a residential home. Victorian Village was the first community in Illinois to offer this kind of care. C
C
townhomes and Grand Victorian apartments, Assis ted Living & Memory Care in our Vic- torian Inn, and long-term skilled nursing care and short-term post- acute rehabilitation in our Health & Wellness Center. Congratulations, Victorian Village, on 25 years of excellence!
This past year, Victorian Village continued its “first” mentality by being the first Memory Care program in Illinois to achieve accreditation from the Joint Com- mission. This year, Victorian Village is remodeling the Memory Care community to make it even more inviting for our residents.
Issue No. 1 | Providencelifeservices.com 19
Providence Communities Offer GriefShare Grief is a complex emotion, but it’s something no one can escape experiencing. As we work to enhance lives in new, meaningful ways to meet our residents’ needs, we have begun to offer GriefShare on some of our campuses.
GriefShare is a faith-based program that meets for 13 weekly sessions and focuses on helping people find guidance, relief, comfort, and peace during times of grief. “While we think of grieving in terms of losing a loved one, grieving also occurs over anything significant and meaningful that changes or is lost,” says Mark Prestriedge, Chaplain at Park Place of St. John. “This could be having to move from a beloved home, experiencing major health changes, or having people we care for begin to experience health issues that change our relationship with them, like the onset of dementia.”
At our Michigan communities, Chaplains Mary DeWitt and Doug Hoeve hold an abbreviated 6-week version of the program for Royal Atrium Inn and Royal Park Place residents, and at Park Place of St. John and Park Place of Elmhurst, these groups are open to the public. Much like our Alzheimer’s support groups at Park Place of Elmhurst and Victorian Village, this allows people who aren’t part of our immediate Providence family to have their emotional needs met through us. Whether grief is current or the result of something that took place many years ago, GriefShare is for you. Chaplain Mark and Providence Hospice Chaplain
Ruth Harrison host GriefShare Saturdays at Park Place of St. John. For more information, email ppsj@provlife.com. Chaplain Gerry Erffmeyer offers GriefShare at Park Place of Elmhurst, and the timing is based on resident need. For more information, contact him at gerrye@provlife.com.
20 PROVIDENCE MAGAZINE | Issue No. 1
Chaplain Ruth Harrison PROVIDENCE HOSPICE
Chaplain Gerry Erffmeyer PARK PLACE OF ELMHURST
Chaplain Mary DeWitt
Chaplain Doug Hoeve
ROYAL ATRIUM INN ROYAL PARK PLCE
ROYAL ATRIUM INN ROYAL PARK PLCE
Chaplain Michael Kooy VICTORIAN VILLAGE
Chaplain Mark Prestriedge PARK PLACE OF ST. JOHN
Issue No. 1 | Providencelifeservices.com 21
‘Wits Workout’ at Royal Park Place Encourages Active Minds Royal Park Place residents have a history of prior- itizing brain health. Many residents have already embraced the Dakim Brain Fitness program available to residents on the campus computers. This year, Life Enrichment Director Carrie Fahey started a new program to help keep brains sharp: Wits Workouts, a brain health resource tool developed by the Universi- ty of Illinois Urbana-Champlain Extension Program. This unique program differs from other brain health programs because it has two goals: to provide intel- lectual engagement, and to increase social engage- ment. These goals are based on research showing how closely related intellectual challenges and social connectedness are when it comes to brain health. “Anyone who knows these residents knows they love spending time together, so having a group activity that stimulates their intellect is a perfect fit for them,” says Carrie. “We all find it challenging, but enjoyable.” Once a month, residents meet for a Wits Workout unit. “Usually, it starts with some warmup, like intro- ducing yourself and saying a flower that starts with the same letter of your name (like Carrie Chrysanthe-
mum), and then we go to multiple brain games,” Car- rie explains. “Every month has a themed unit. We’ve done flowers, all about Rome, seasons, and laughter. Some of the exercises are things we work through independently, but the heart of the program includes working together. The exercises are challenging, so I assure the residents there’s no grade. Once we do a ‘workout,’ we go through it together.” One example of the program challenged the resi- dents to name the contents of their purses or wallets without looking. The room filled with laughter as the residents worked.
“The best work is working without know- ing you’re working, and all the laughter and smiles tells us everyone is having a good time,” Carrie says. “At Royal Park, we always have fun, and if it challenges our brains, it’s an extra bonus.”
Can You Answer these Prompts?
1 Please write down as many synonyms as you can for the words “laugh” and “funny” —there are at least 15 for each! 2 A homophone is a word that sounds the same as another word but is spelled differently and has a different meaning. How many pairs of homophones can you identify?
22 PROVIDENCE MAGAZINE | Issue No. 1
Why Do I Give? AN INTERVIEW WITH RICH & ESTHER VAN HATTEM
Rich Van Hattem served on our Board of Directors for two five-year periods and now serves on our Board of Governors. He and his wife Esther have been enthusiastic, faithful supporters of Providence Life Service for many years. Rich: When I was a teenager, I used to go to Providence communities and visit. My mom worked and volunteered at Providence. Later, she and my dad moved to Providence. Esther: It’s part of my earliest memories. My grandfather, great-aunt, and later my parents lived in Providence communities. Rich: Serving on the Board helped open my eyes to know what the organization is all about. It really hit me how important it was to help people who couldn’t be at home anymore, and how important it was that they live in community with others. Throughout my work on the Board, I became invested in the work of Providence. Participating in decisions, I felt ownership in the organization as something I always want to be a part of, however I can be. Esther: What made me really want to serve was seeing the difference between the care my mom got at a Providence community compared with how she was treated at a non-Providence community. They cared not just about her, but about our whole family. I am so grateful, and I want to do whatever I can to make sure it continues. Rich: Providence takes care to another level. What a big difference it makes in people’s lives to be surrounded by community! I had seen it in my parents, and again as I interacted with people whose
lives were changed positively in their later years because
they moved to a Providence
community. Taking care of the elderly is something people don’t think about until you find out you need care for someone you love, or for yourself. At that point, you’ll be happy there are Providence locations where care is available. But don’t wait to give until then. Esther: I love seeing younger people getting involved, whether it’s serving on our Board or if it’s the local schools getting involved. Hopefully, these memories they are making and the care they are seeing will help them tell family and friends, and maybe they will develop a passion for Providence that will stay with them all their lives. Rich: God has been good to us, and we’ve been blessed by a good career that allows us to be generous. But what’s important to us, what sets Providence apart, is that the mission of Providence is to enhance the lives of those we serve in the name of Jesus Christ. That is what I want to invest in. In the end, all I’ve been given—it already belongs to God anyway.
To donate, use the QR Code with your phone or go to GiveToProvidence.com Providence Life Services is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization
SCAN ME
Issue No. 1 | Providencelifeservices.com 23
Generous Community
And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. COLOSSIANS 3:17
2024 Leadership Donors * *Leadership Donors also contribute as Sponsors to all our Special Events Amber Mechanical Contractors, Inc. Assurance - Marsh McLennen Agency LLC Barry & Karen VanderGenugten Bastian Knoppers Bill & Kathy De Young
We thank the following people, whose generous donations and kindness have helped us sustain our ministry. Gifts to Providence Life Services January 1, 2024 - March 31, 2024
Brian & Patrice Kamstra Buikema & Keune, LLC Colonial Chapel Dale & Karen Huizenga Dave & Sally Larsen Dunhill Formal Wear Gary Leo Heidi Huizenga Homewood Disposal Joyce Lagestee Ken & Gwen Hoving Kevin & Renita Van Solkema Kharis Foundation Friend of Providence Providence Bank & Trust Rich & Esther Van Hattem Richard & Linda Schutt Robert & Beth Workman
DONATIONS TO THE PROVIDENCE FUND Tim & Deborah Abbring Kiersten Baker Lucette Bamford Kurt & Julie Benda Janna Boger Ted & Josie Boswell Kevin & Dr. Michelle Buikema Ruth Buikema George & Shirley Castor Kirk & Jean Cavanaugh Clarence Davids & Company Luis Colon Ron & Dr. Mary Lynn Colosimo Michelle Dykstra
Faith Christian Reformed Church - Elmhurst First Church (PCA) - Lansing Carl & Debra Goodfriend Bill & Nancy Guth Cathy Hamstra Schipma Harvest Financial Planning, LLC Bob & Carol Heikema JB Capital Management Bert & Lori Kamp Timothy & Sherryl Kamphuis Jacqueline Kamps Lisa Keaveny John & Mary Beth Kerlin Lee & Marian Kickert Gary Leo William & Joan Ooms Larry & Johnna Otte The Ozinga Foundation
Rev. Mark & Linda Prestriedge Providence Bank & Trust
Henry & Kathy Schroth Richard & Linda Schutt Alexandra Shloss Nicholas Spoolstra Bill & Lu Ann Stefek Scott & Mary Studebaker David Sullivan Megan Tengerstrom Timothy G. Lawler, Ltd. Amy Unger Ruth VanEck Alden & Bethany VanSolkema Carla VanTil Sam & Judy VanTil Barry & Karen VanderGenugten Rick & Sue VanDyken Ron & Sharon Wieringa Bill & Judy Zandstra
Sam & Judy Van Til Schepel Auto Group Friend of Providence Symbria The Estate of John & Joni Van der Aa The Ozinga Foundation Van & Lois Zeilstra Wit ech Co. Inc.
Edward Jones Investments - Jake Mudde Rev. Gerry & Carol Erffmeyer
24 PROVIDENCE MAGAZINE | Issue No. 1
GENEROUS COMMUNITY
GIFTS RECEIVED IN APPRECIATION OF CARE GIVEN BY Dr. Michelle Buikema, DNP Laverne Buikema GIFTS FOR PARK PLACE OF ELMHURST & THE PARK PLACE OF ELMHURST FOUNDATION Elizabeth McVey Gail Balluff Vernon & Elaine Magnesen GIVEN IN LOVING MEMORY Thomas J. Bamford Richard & Linda Schutt Mavis Thomas Paul & Cathy Schultz
GIFTS FOR PROVIDENCE HOSPICE Given in Loving Memory Dave Bartlett Applied Fluids Judy DeGuilio
GIVEN IN LOVING MEMORY Thomas J. Bamford Bill & Judy Zandstra Rev. L. Bazuin Neil & Johanna Zandstra Rev. Derke P. Bergsma Dan & Deborah VanProoyen Martin “Mick” A. Brouwer Richard & Linda Schutt Gertrude Marion Buikema Bill Buikema & Jean Hoffman Buikema Robert & Denette Buikema Tim & Irene Buikema William F. “Bill” Guth Bill & Nancy Guth Carol Housman Beth Cunningham Willard VanEck, Jr. Ruth VanEck Peter “Pete” Ven Housen Bill & Lu Ann Stefek GIFTS GIVEN IN TRIBUTE For excellent care received for Doris Bergsma Dan & Deborah VanProoyen Celebrating the birthday of Jo Ann Slifko Tim & Deborah Abbring
PROVIDENCE SPECIAL EVENTS 29 TH ANNUAL PASTORS MASTERS HOLE SPONSORS Carden & Tracy Clarence Davids & Company Economy Disposal Edward Jones Investments - Jake Mudde
Provinet Solutions Rick Aardema & Ken Adair Smits Funeral Homes - Dyer, Indiana South Suburban Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. Stolte Enterprises, Inc. PARTNERS Dennis & Sharon Peters Georgio’s Banquets NACCO of IL Oak Lawn Toyota Timothy G. Lawler, Ltd.
Kathleen Smitley Martin “Mick” A. Brouwer Brian & Mariellen Boomsma Dominic & Rhonda Colella Robert & Sandra DeVries Kenneth & Carol Drenth Linda Helder Donald & Gail Miller David & Linda Smith Gertrude Marion Buikema Janice Buikema Kevin & Dr. Michelle Buikema Laverne Buikema Ruth Buikema Jud & Rita Edidin Ray & Anita Kozlowski Ann Wiarda Edward McLean Helene McLean Petra Ostrowski Marjorie Simunic John Smith & Judie Dziezak Margaret Waupsh Margaret “Marge” Kirley Potocki Ronald & Cynthia Saey
Evenhouse & Co. PC Haney & Company, Ltd. Harvest Financial Planning, LLC Kallemeyn Collision Larry & Johnna Otte Premier Outdoor Events
21 ST HALLMARK OF CARING
Beverly Ozinga Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois Henry and Kathy Schroth
Lee and Marian Kickert Megan Tengerstrom Ruth Buikema
A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling. PSALM 68:5
Issue No. 1 | Providencelifeservices.com 25
PROVIDENCE LEADERSHIP 2024—2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PAUL BUIKEMA Chair Westmont, IL
ED DAMSTRA III Orland Park, IL
DAVE DEGRAFF St. John, IN
TIM BREEMS Palos Heights, IL
TED FEENSTRA Elmhurst, IL
KEN HOVING Vice Chair Middleville, MI
PATTI JABAAY St. John, IN
ARNOLD KOLDENHOVEN Burr Ridge IL
GARY W. LEO Orland Park, IL
KAREN HUIZENGA Secretary/Treasurer St. John, IN
DARREN VANESSEN Asst. Secretary/Treasurer Crown Point, IN
ROB PETROELJE Villa Park, IL
DAVID VOSS Homer Glen, IL
DR. ERIC WOO St. John IN
KYLE YONKER Homer Glen, IL
BARRY VANDERGENUGTEN Chief Financial Officer Mokena, IL
RICHARD SCHUTT Chief Executive Office Palos Heights, IL
BILL DEYOUNG Chief Operations Officer Homer Glen, IL
26 PROVIDENCE MAGAZINE | Issue No. 1
Providence Communities Receive Top Honors from U.S. News & World Report
U.S. News & World Report recently released their list of Best Independent Living and Best Assisted Living communities, and all Providence Life Services communities re- ceived honors. Receiving Best Independent Living awards: Park Place of Elmhurst in Illinois; Park Place of St. John in Indiana; Royal Park Place in Zeeland, Mich.; and Victorian Vil- lage in Homer Glen, Ill. Park Place of St. John and Royal Atrium Inn in Zeeland also received Best Assisted Living, while Park Place Health & Wellness Center of Elmhurst was recognized for B est Memory Care. Park Place of Elmhurst in Illinois also re- ceived Best Continuing Care Retirement Community honors.
U.S. News awards the designation of Best Senior Living only to those communities that satisfy U.S. News’ statistical assess- ment of performance on consumer satis- faction surveys administered. “Receiving this award is a reflection of the high quality services we offer, along with lifestyle and wellness provided to our resi- dents.” says Megan Tengerstrom, Vice-Pres- ident of Operations at Providence Life Services. “This recognition is a reflection of the dedication provided by our talented staff members as they work to enhance the lives of the people they serve. We are honored that each of our communities has been recognized with these awards.”
18601 NORTH CREEK DRIVE, SUITE A | TINLEY PARK, IL 60477 Providence LIFE SERVICES
NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 787 BOLINGBROOK, IL
“ It's wonderful to be part of such a successful team.”
Enjoy a job that respects you, with good pay, healthcare benefits, and the reward of helping others. WorkAtProvidence.com
www. ProvidenceLifeServices .com 18601 North Creek Drive, Tinley Park, IL 60477 | 708.342.8100 Providence Life Services is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28www.providencelifeservices.com
Made with FlippingBook Annual report