Spring 2013 RHF Today - Retirement Housing Foundation
Spring 2013 RHF Today - Retirement Housing Foundation Spring 2013 RHF Today - Retirement Housing Foundation
Spring 2013 A Retirement Housing Foundation Publication Construction on The Whittier (Los Angeles, CA) - RHF’s newest affordable community for families - is slated for completion at the end of 2013.
- Page 2 and 3: From The President Who is my Family
- Page 4 and 5: 52nd Anniversary Celebration RHF Ce
- Page 6 and 7: RHF History Continuing To Celebrate
- Page 8 and 9: Centenarians Happy Birthday To You,
- Page 10 and 11: Who is my Family? Who is my Neighbo
- Page 12 and 13: Volunteers Alice Sexton RHF’s Nat
- Page 14 and 15: Charitable Giving In Memory of . .
- Page 16 and 17: Donors Thank you RHF National Headq
- Page 18 and 19: “Supporting RHF enhances the live
- Page 20: Retirement Housing Foundation 911 N
<strong>Spring</strong> <strong>2013</strong><br />
A <strong>Retirement</strong> <strong>Housing</strong> <strong>Foundation</strong> Publication<br />
Construction on The Whittier (Los Angeles, CA)<br />
- <strong>RHF</strong>’s newest affordable community for families -<br />
is slated for completion at the end of <strong>2013</strong>.
From The President<br />
Who is my Family? Who is my Neighbor?<br />
Luke 8:19-22 John 19:25-37 Luke 10:25-37<br />
I was invited to preach at our 52nd Anniversary Worship Service on<br />
February 21 and I chose the theme of family and neighbor to center<br />
my sermon around. I thought I’d share some of the sermon with you.<br />
We read in the Gospels that Jesus is focusing on his calling and the<br />
crowds are all around him and then someone says: “Your mother<br />
and brothers are standing outside, wanting to see you.” He replies,<br />
“My Mother and brothers are those who hear God’s word and put it<br />
into practice.” That’s a major expansion of the concept of family in<br />
a society that was very much focused on genealogy.<br />
And as he was dying, Jesus saw his Mother and his youngest disciple,<br />
John, standing nearby and he said, “Mother, here is your son.”<br />
And to John, “Here is your Mother.” In their society a husband was<br />
expected to provide for his wife and if the father died, as we believe<br />
Joseph had, it became the son’s responsibility to fulfill the obligation<br />
of support. But John was a disciple brother, not a blood brother, another expansion of family.<br />
I also thought about the dialogue Jesus had with the rich young man who diligently followed the religious<br />
law. He asked what he had to do to have eternal life. Jesus answered with a question. “What is written in<br />
the law?’ The young man replied, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your strength<br />
and with all your mind and love your neighbor as yourself.” “You have answered correctly” Jesus replied.<br />
“Do this and you will live.” But the young man wanted to reduce the playing field and asked ”And who<br />
is my neighbor?” Jesus replied with the well known story of the Good Samaritan and a question as to who<br />
was a neighbor to the man in need. He replied, “The one who helped him.” And then Jesus responded,<br />
“Go and do likewise.”<br />
This is what I believe these scriptures are saying to us:<br />
1) There are many facets to our family – blood relatives and in-laws, some of whom may be out-laws, you<br />
know - the ones we wish we didn’t have to invite to holiday functions. But family is more than that.<br />
We frequently talk about the <strong>RHF</strong> family which consists of residents in our communities and their families,<br />
team members who work in those communities as well as our regional offices and national headquarters,<br />
and our local and national Board members. Our concept of family extends to those on our waiting lists<br />
which is why we advocate for policies that enable everyone to have a safe, secure, affordable place to live,<br />
for a good quality of life and quality health care services. I believe these things are not political operatives.<br />
They are divine imperatives.<br />
Continue on page 10<br />
<strong>RHF</strong> <strong>Today</strong> is published periodically for residents, families of residents, the United Church of Christ and sponsoring<br />
congregations, staff, local board members, and friends of <strong>Retirement</strong> <strong>Housing</strong> <strong>Foundation</strong>, 911 N. Studebaker Road, Long Beach,<br />
CA 90815-4900, Telephone (562) 257-5100/FAX (562) 257-5200, TDD (800) 545-1833, ext. 359. www.rhf.org - e-mail: info@rhf.org.<br />
<strong>Retirement</strong> <strong>Housing</strong> <strong>Foundation</strong> is a nonprofit California corporation dedicated to planning, sponsoring, building, preserving and<br />
managing housing for older adults, low-income families, and persons with disabilities. It is a member of the Council for Health<br />
and Human Service Ministries of the United Church of Christ, and also co-sponsors housing communities with other denominational,<br />
civic and community organizations. <strong>RHF</strong> is a member of LeadingAge and its state affiliates. <strong>RHF</strong> serves and employs without<br />
regard to race, creed, color, sex, national origin, religion, ancestry, marital status, physical disability, age, medical condition<br />
(including pregnancy), or familial status.<br />
President and Chief Executive Officer: Rev. Laverne R. Joseph, D.D.<br />
BOARD OF DIRECTORS<br />
Chairperson: Dr. John E. Trnka Vice Chairpersons: Christina E. Potter, Dr. Darryl M. Sexton Treasurer: Thomas S. Masuda<br />
Directors: Dr. John Bauman, Rev. Norma DeSaegher, Jean G. Dremstedt, Raymond E. East, Frank G. Jahrling, Rev. Harold S.<br />
Schultz, and Stewart M. Simington.<br />
<strong>RHF</strong> <strong>Foundation</strong>, Inc. provides financial resources through gifts and managed funds that assist<br />
the mission of <strong>Retirement</strong> <strong>Housing</strong> <strong>Foundation</strong>.<br />
-2-
<strong>2013</strong> Friend of the Elderly Award<br />
Henry Cisneros - Former Secretary of The Department of<br />
<strong>Housing</strong> and Urban Development<br />
Henry Cisneros is the Executive Chairman of CityView companies.<br />
CityView works with urban homebuilders to create excellent housing<br />
options priced within the range of average families. This outstanding<br />
organization is a partner in building more than 60 communities in 13<br />
states, incorporating more than 7,000 homes with a home value of over<br />
$2 billion.<br />
Mr. Cisneros’ community-building career began at the local level. In<br />
1981, Mr. Cisneros became the first Hispanic-American mayor of a<br />
major U.S. city, San Antonio, Texas. During his four terms as Mayor, he<br />
helped rebuild the city’s economic base and spurred the creation of jobs<br />
through massive infrastructure and downtown improvements.<br />
In 1986, Cisneros was selected as the “Outstanding Mayor” in the nation<br />
by City and State Magazine. Mr. Cisneros remains active in San Antonio’s leadership where he is Chairman of<br />
the San Antonio Economic Development <strong>Foundation</strong>.<br />
In 1992, President Clinton appointed Mr. Cisneros to be Secretary of the U.S. Department of <strong>Housing</strong> and<br />
Urban Development (HUD). During his time in President Clinton’s Cabinet, Secretary Cisneros initiated the<br />
revitalization of many public housing developments. Cisneros also formulated policies which contributed to<br />
achieving the nation’s highest ever homeownership rate. In his role as the President’s chief representative to the<br />
nation’s cities, Mr. Cisneros personally worked in more than 200 U.S. cities throughout all 50 states.<br />
Mr. Cisneros has been inducted into the National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB) “Builders Hall of Fame”<br />
and honored by the National <strong>Housing</strong> Conference as the “<strong>Housing</strong> Person of the Year.” Mr. Cisneros’ deep<br />
philanthropic passion is evident in his involvement as an officer for Habitat for Humanity International. He is<br />
also a current member of both the Bill and Melinda Gates <strong>Foundation</strong> and the Broad <strong>Foundation</strong> advisory boards.<br />
Mr. Cisneros has also been author or editor of several books including: Interwoven Destinies: Cities and the<br />
Nation. His book project with former HUD Secretary Jack Kemp, Opportunity and Progress: A Bipartisan<br />
Platform for National <strong>Housing</strong> Policy, was presented the Common Purpose Award for demonstrating the<br />
potential of bipartisan cooperation and Casa y Comunidad: Latino Home and Neighborhood Design was<br />
awarded the Benjamin Franklin Silver Medal in the category of best business book of 2006.<br />
Mr. Cisneros is a prime example of a lifelong learner, evident by his Doctorate in Public Administration from<br />
George Washington University. Mr. Cisneros has also been awarded more than 20 honorary doctorates from<br />
leading universities. Mr. Cisneros is married to Mary Alice P. Cisneros. Together, Alice and Henry have three<br />
children– Teresa, Mercedes, and John Paul – and four grandchildren.<br />
<strong>RHF</strong> is very pleased to present Mr. Henry Cisneros with the Friend of the Elderly Award.<br />
-3-<br />
Celebrating Our Mission<br />
<strong>RHF</strong> Providing a Brighter Future For People<br />
Like Us on Facebook!<br />
Here at national headquarters we are gearing up to launch <strong>RHF</strong>’s journey into<br />
social media. This is going to be a way to share <strong>RHF</strong> in a way that reaches a<br />
wider audience than our printed publication and e-letters. Facebook (FB) will be<br />
a way for us to share the great things happening in our communities, share the<br />
stories of our residents, network with other organizations, build a larger volunteer<br />
base, and encourage advocacy efforts.<br />
There are plenty of ways to get involved! Whenever one of our FB pages is<br />
published you will have the option to “like” it electronically. Liking our page will ensure that you “stay in the<br />
know” when it comes to the latest news at <strong>RHF</strong>.
52nd Anniversary Celebration<br />
<strong>RHF</strong> Celebrates 52 Years (cont.)<br />
<strong>RHF</strong>’s <strong>2013</strong> Resident of the Year<br />
Tina Pallitto - Marymount Manor, Tacoma, Washington<br />
Tina exemplifies the immense amount of love, dedication and commitment<br />
that it takes to serve an entire community. She has been a resident at<br />
Marymount Manor since 1999 and the community would not be the same<br />
without her great dedication and hard work.<br />
Tina is welcoming and helpful to new residents in her Marymount Manor<br />
community. She goes above and beyond to make sure her neighbor’s needs<br />
are met. Sometimes this includes rides to medical appointments, hairdresser<br />
appointments, and the food bank for grocery shopping. She will even take the<br />
time to use her sewing talents to help hem the slacks of a friend. No matter<br />
how big or small a need might be Tina is there to meet it.<br />
Tina exemplifies excellent stewardship and works to maintain the condition of her community facilities. She<br />
often cleans and decorates common areas to make them extra special for each holiday season. She also helps<br />
with inventories, stocking, and cleaning common area supplies. Amidst the hurried busyness of community<br />
gatherings, Tina is always welcoming and greeting her neighbors with a big heart and a great smile.<br />
Tina’s enthusiasm and helpfulness extends to her church community and local neighborhood. In September,<br />
she can be found getting things ready for a school supply give away. During this event, she distributes school<br />
supplies to children in need. Not only does Tina help give supplies, she is also there to give the children words of<br />
encouragement. Tina displays an intense love and dedication to both the young and old, she will often be found<br />
visiting the sick and caring for the elderly.<br />
Tina is an exemplary volunteer who models a giving spirit. <strong>RHF</strong> is pleased to present Ms. Tina Pallitto with the<br />
<strong>2013</strong> Resident of the Year Award.<br />
<strong>RHF</strong>’s <strong>2013</strong> Manager of the Year<br />
Cathy Levario - West Valley Towers, Van Nuys, California<br />
Cathy has been with <strong>RHF</strong> since 1999 when she started as a receptionist at Granada<br />
Gardens. By showing an immense amount of professional dedication and hard<br />
work, Cathy first stepped into an assistant manager position at Vistas in 2004<br />
and was promoted to manager of West Valley Towers in 2006.<br />
Cathy is a manager who treats each person, whether they are staff or resident,<br />
with deep dignity and respect. As a leader, she is able to unite residents into<br />
community with one another and bring her staff together as a highly effective<br />
team. During West Valley Towers’ last resident survey, Cathy and her staff<br />
received a 100% approval rating. This is one of the highest manager scores in<br />
<strong>RHF</strong> history.<br />
Cathy has a listening ear and an open heart. A West Valley Towers resident commented that, “It is very rare to find<br />
someone who truly cares about us and at the same time understands us.” Cathy makes the effort to have regular<br />
meetings with her residents so that they can be informed of any community issues and have an opportunity to<br />
share their concerns. West Valley Towers is a giant melting pot of different religious views, varied political affiliations,<br />
and varied culturals. While this type of diversity could easily create conflict among neighbors, Cathy uses this diversity<br />
to enrich the lives of West Valley residents.<br />
She has recently been given the additional responsibilities of interim manager for the Vistas community as well.<br />
Cathy is making such a difference that the Vistas residents are petitioning to keep her!<br />
For her deep dedication, excellent service, and virtuous character, <strong>RHF</strong> is pleased to present Ms. Cathy Levario with<br />
the <strong>2013</strong> Manager of the Year Award.<br />
(Continued on page 5)<br />
-4-
This award is named in honor of Rex Chapman who was active for 30<br />
years with <strong>RHF</strong>, both in Cathedral Pioneer Church Homes in Sacramento<br />
and later serving on and chairing the National Board of <strong>RHF</strong>. While on<br />
the Board, he worked tirelessly on behalf of seniors, low-income families<br />
and persons with disabilities from 1977 to 1998.<br />
While not given annually, this prestigious award is given to an individual<br />
who has consistently shown a commitment to championing the cause of<br />
affordable housing and services.<br />
Don King’s adventurous life and serving heart are inspiration<br />
to everyone at <strong>RHF</strong>. Don’s service began in the U.S. Naval Reserve<br />
during the 1950s. His patriotic service took him throughout Japan<br />
and Korea.<br />
After years of serving his country, he returned to the States<br />
and started serving his local church congregation, the Pioneer<br />
Congregational United Church of Christ. During his time at<br />
church, Don King has served as a Moderator and on almost<br />
every board and committee. Don is an excellent communicator,<br />
a genuine peacemaker, and a good steward of his God-given<br />
talents and abilities.<br />
Don’s involvement in the Board of Cathedral Pioneer Church<br />
Homes and <strong>Retirement</strong> <strong>Housing</strong> <strong>Foundation</strong> dates back to 1987.<br />
During his service, Don has served in many capacities including<br />
<strong>RHF</strong> Vice Chair from 1994-2005 and Board Chair from 2005-2011.<br />
Don with resident<br />
His passion for seniors is evident not only by his involvement in various<br />
affordable housing boards but also by his persistence in political<br />
advocacy. Don has attended countless meetings and conferences of<br />
LeadingAge (formerly known as the American Association of Homes<br />
and Services for the Aging) as well as LeadingAge California. Don has<br />
persistently advocated on various issues affecting seniors with legislators<br />
at both national and state levels.<br />
Don has also had a successful career in reporting and founded the<br />
Sacramento Deposition Reporters and later Don King Reporters.<br />
Mary and Don King<br />
Don is a model husband and father, sharing his life with his<br />
wife Mary and their children. Mary King has served on the<br />
<strong>RHF</strong> Advisory Commission since its beginning in 1994.<br />
Don was presented the Rex Chapman Award by Rex’s granddaughter,<br />
Catherine Collinson and Dr. Joseph (pictured).<br />
We are sorry that Don is retiring from the <strong>RHF</strong> Board but<br />
we are pleased that he will continue to serve on the Board of<br />
Cathedral Pioneer Church Homes. Although Don and Mary<br />
are retiring from their responsibilities on the <strong>RHF</strong> Board and<br />
Advisory Commission (respectively) they have been named<br />
Emeritus members of those groups.<br />
For his faithful and tenacious service in the senior housing<br />
community, <strong>RHF</strong> is pleased to present Don King with the prestigious Rex Chapman Award.<br />
-5-<br />
52nd Anniversary Celebration<br />
<strong>RHF</strong> Providing a Brighter Future for People<br />
<strong>RHF</strong>’s <strong>2013</strong> Rex Chapman Award Winner<br />
Donald King - National Board Member
<strong>RHF</strong> History<br />
Continuing To Celebrate 50<br />
This is the final article in a seven-part historical series we started with<br />
our 50th anniversary. So many things have happened over the years<br />
that it’s impossible to list them all.<br />
In January of 1987, just before I came to <strong>RHF</strong>, our corporate office was<br />
at 401 E. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach. Then in March of 1993, we moved<br />
to 5150 E. Pacific Coast Hwy. for additional space. In July of 1999, we<br />
were able to purchase our current office building at 911 N. Studebaker<br />
Rd., and after considerable redesign, we dedicated it at our 40th annual<br />
meeting in 2001.<br />
Part of that redesign included making the entryway more<br />
obvious with an elevator tower. By law we did not need to<br />
add an elevator but decided that, since we serve older adults<br />
and persons with disabilities, the building should be accessible.<br />
A monument was added at the entryway that includes a<br />
rock from every state in which we have a community. The<br />
intention was to symbolize that the building belongs to the<br />
entire organization and not merely to the people who happen<br />
to work at the national headquarters.<br />
The monument is surrounded by our motto, Committed to<br />
Service, Dedicated to Excellence, Enhancing Quality of Life, which was the result of an <strong>RHF</strong> Team Member<br />
contest to encapsulate our mission statement in ten words or less.<br />
In 1987 <strong>RHF</strong> had approximately 30 people at the national headquarters. Subsequently, that number was reduced<br />
as we had to respond to the financial challenges of the late 1980s. <strong>Today</strong> <strong>RHF</strong> has more than 100 persons in our<br />
national headquarters, and we have added six regional offices and nine regional managers since 1987.<br />
Our staffing have grown since 1987 because we have added 114 communities that required additional staff.<br />
Another factor for more staffing is the proliferation of regulations both in housing and healthcare. When I came<br />
to <strong>RHF</strong> in 1987, I thought the regulations were complex. <strong>Today</strong> those regulations look like the good old days.<br />
And if regulatory oversight continues to expand over the next 25 years, I’m sure the time we’re living in now<br />
will be considered the good old days.<br />
In addition to centralizing many functions, we have added numerous specialties, such as an in-house legal<br />
department, a corporate compliance officer, a risk management department, an internal auditor, and a charitable<br />
giving department. In addition, our growing responsibilities and opportunities have required enlarging our<br />
project development department from three persons to 11 persons with at least two more to be added this year.<br />
During this time, we were recognized by the United Church of Christ as a ministry of the church. Various<br />
conferences also recognize our communities as part of their mission.<br />
The title of our publication was changed from The Vintage to <strong>RHF</strong> <strong>Today</strong>.<br />
Sometimes there are hints of Groundhog Day. If you recall that old movie, the characters were living the same<br />
day over and over again. Currently, there is a big emphasis on solar systems, and we are working at conserving<br />
energy. One of the early tasks that I had at <strong>RHF</strong> was to unwind some solar system contracts where the equipment<br />
did not function as promised. Obviously, today the solar systems are much more sophisticated than they were<br />
then.<br />
-6-
Years Of Caring About People<br />
<strong>RHF</strong> History<br />
One thing that is not widely known about <strong>RHF</strong>’s history is that<br />
we have helped to launch and assist several other nonprofits. My<br />
predecessors, Rev. Klein and Rev. Harshfield, worked with the<br />
Church of the Beatitudes in Phoenix, AZ, to help to develop the<br />
Beatitudes Campus of Care. HUD felt they had already provided<br />
too much funding for questionable projects in Phoenix, and Rev.<br />
Klein had to visit with DC officials several times to get them to<br />
agree to fund this community. <strong>Today</strong>, the Beatitudes is a thriving<br />
UCC related community.<br />
Likewise, <strong>RHF</strong> assisted in developing Sun Valley<br />
Lodge in Sun Valley, AZ, and Casa de Modesto in<br />
Modesto, CA. In those days, <strong>RHF</strong> did not insist on<br />
controlling the management contract or appointments<br />
to the board. So, as Rev. Harshfield told me, several<br />
years after the “heavy lifting” was done, <strong>RHF</strong> was<br />
invited out.<br />
Beatitudes<br />
Sun Valley Lodge<br />
Then, <strong>RHF</strong> changed its policy to say that we would<br />
still help other nonprofits to get launched but, if we<br />
provided financing, we would insist on the right to appoint<br />
one more than half of the board, although they<br />
may all be local representatives nominated by the co-sponsor, and insist on the right to have the management<br />
contract.<br />
Had those changes not been made, <strong>RHF</strong> would not exist today. Several years ago, another national nonprofit,<br />
which had not made a similar change, found that in the face of adversity, all of their communities deserted them.<br />
<strong>RHF</strong> also helped United Church Homes of Ohio get into the affordable housing mission. United Church Homes<br />
had a successful track record in continuing care retirement communities and nursing homes, and when HUD<br />
asked <strong>RHF</strong> to rescue two troubled communities in Ohio, we invited United Church Homes to be a co-sponsor<br />
and asked them to manage those properties known as The Firelands in Oberlin and Lorain. After several years at<br />
<strong>RHF</strong>, I encouraged United Church Homes to take on sole sponsorship and management, and their mission now<br />
includes many additional affordable housing communities.<br />
Over the years, <strong>RHF</strong> has worked with other nonprofits in creative ways to address major challenges. In 1986,<br />
<strong>RHF</strong> and National Church Residences formed the National <strong>Housing</strong> <strong>Retirement</strong> Trust, which later was named<br />
the National Affordable <strong>Housing</strong> Trust, as the first nonprofit syndicator of tax credits in the nation. This past year<br />
NAHT has had its most successful year yet, and this year will likely be merging with the Stewards of Affordable<br />
<strong>Housing</strong> for the Future (SAHF), which was created in 2004 to help address national housing policy.<br />
In 2001, <strong>RHF</strong> and several other nonprofits organized Caring Communities Reciprocal Risk Retention Group to<br />
address the extraordinary increases in liability insurance premiums. The organization has grown to include 33<br />
nonprofits and has an A- Excellent rating from AM Best.<br />
Now in our 53rd year, it is mindboggling to consider the modest launch of <strong>RHF</strong> back in 1961 and the size of the<br />
corporation and its mission to people over this period of time. And we continue to grow and evolve because the<br />
demand for what we do continues to grow.<br />
I invite you to help us continue to make history.<br />
-7-
Centenarians<br />
Happy Birthday To You, Happy Birthday To You . . .<br />
Ruth Mc-<br />
Ginnis<br />
Amy Boberg<br />
Pearl Steinweg<br />
Mary Burke<br />
Janet Prout<br />
Peace Village - Palos Park, IL<br />
Amy Boberg turned 101 years “young” this past January 24th. She has been a vital part of Peace<br />
Village since 1990. She remains active to this day and is a part of our Peace Village Choir.<br />
Pearl Steinweg, 100, has been a resident of Peace Village Circle Inn since April, 2011. Pearl<br />
owned her own clothing store and is still quite the fashionista today! She’s quite passionate<br />
about bowling, both Wii and at the local bowling alley.<br />
Ruth McGinnis turned 102 on April 1st. She is one of our first residents – she has called Peace<br />
Village “home” since June, 1989. Ruth taught English Literature and has been a contributor<br />
for The Regional Newspaper for many years.<br />
Binnall House - Gardner, Massachusetts<br />
Mary Katharine Burke has traveled extensively throughout her 101 years and seen<br />
many wonderful things. She feels that one of the most defining parts of her life<br />
was raising 26 foster children with her husband of 55 years, Maurice, along with<br />
their two adopted children.<br />
Symphony Plaza East - Boston Massachusetts<br />
Janet Prout is a HUGE Boston Red Sox and UConn Women’s Basketball fan. She<br />
is a grandmother of seven and great-grandmother of seven. She enjoys when<br />
her 101 year old sister, Annie comes to visit for long weekends.<br />
Bishop’s Glen - Holly Hill, Florida<br />
Margaret Wilkinson turned 100 in February. She enjoys listening to classical music,<br />
cats and Hershey kisses . . . not necessarily in that order. She’s lived at Bishop’s Glen<br />
for more than 5 years.<br />
Helen Pickens became 100 in March and the whole town celebrated. Holly Hill<br />
Mayor Roy Johnson attended her birthday party and proclaimed it Helen Pickens Day.<br />
Sadie Gorman was born April 27,1908. Originally from Massachusetts, she has been living<br />
at Bishop’s Glen for about 16 years.<br />
Angelus Plaza - Los Angeles, California<br />
Petra Hernandez was born in Durango, Mexico on January 31, 1910, and has been living at<br />
Angelus Plaza for the past 25 years. She has two sons and a daughter, three grandchildren,<br />
and 6 great grandchildren.<br />
Pioneer Tower North - Pasadena, California<br />
Mildred Smith has been a resident of Pilgrim Tower North for 24 years. She turned 101<br />
years old in January. She was a part of our resident council for many years and took pride<br />
in decorating the PTN display cabinet for over 20 years. Mildred continues to do her own<br />
grocery shopping, cleaning and cooking while living independently.<br />
Petra<br />
Hernandez<br />
Margaret Wilkinson<br />
Helen Pickens<br />
Sadie Gorman<br />
-8-<br />
Mildred Smith
Westminster Village - Clarksville, Indiana<br />
Centenarians<br />
Harry Ehringer lives independently with his wife, Dottie at Westminster Village. He exercises and walks almost every<br />
day. . . not bad for a gentleman of 104! Harry says of himself and his wife, “No two people are happier than us.”<br />
Gateway/Gateway Gardens - Poway, California<br />
Joseph “Pop” Bentz has no qualms about telling you his age- a whopping 105 years old!<br />
While Joseph isn’t the runner he used to be, he still enjoys being outdoors, completing<br />
complex puzzles, playing his Wii and watching football (Go 49ers!).<br />
Gertrude Cerutti was born February 21, 1910. She is a Rancho Bernardo native<br />
and lived on the golf course at Oaks North.<br />
Bixby Knolls Towers - Long Beach, California<br />
Florence Perkins, 103, lost her parents at age seven and she lived in an orphanage until age 14.<br />
Florence was a factory worker for 25 years. After she retired from her factory job she worked<br />
in her sister’s grocery store.<br />
She married when she was 54 years old and they spent 45 years together before he passed.<br />
Florence and her husband moved to BKT in 2003. After his death in 2008 she moved to our<br />
Assisted Living community. She never had children and she considers BKT staff her “family.”<br />
Colonial Heights & Gardens - Florence, Kentucky<br />
Druscilla Davidson was born on April 6, 1910 in Millstone, Kentucky in Letcher<br />
County. She and her husband William Ace Davidson were married 64 years prior<br />
to his passing. She has one son and one granddaughter. She always enjoyed<br />
reading, having flower gardens and listening to the radio. She especially enjoys<br />
listening to sports on the radio.<br />
Harriet Hyer was born in Dunkirk, Indiana on January 3, 1913. She was married to<br />
John Hyer for 72 years prior to his passing. She has 3 sons and 9 grandchildren. She<br />
enjoys crafts and loves to travel. Harriet plays the cello!<br />
Courtenay <strong>Spring</strong>s Village - Merritt Island, Florida<br />
Dorothy Elliott, 103, has resided at Courtenay <strong>Spring</strong>s Village for 18 years. She moved into<br />
the Independent living with her husband and over the years moved to the Assisted Living<br />
and now resides in our Long term Care unit. Mrs. Elliott was 103 on April 11th. She still is<br />
very active and enjoys her days reading and attending activities of her choice and interest.<br />
Ouida Herring celebrated her 105th birthday on March 11th. She lived by herself until<br />
coming to Courtenay <strong>Spring</strong>s for rehab four months ago. Several of her family & friends<br />
attended the birthday party we held for her and her only wish was to dance with the<br />
Activity Assistant.<br />
DeSmet <strong>Retirement</strong> Community - Florrisant, Missouri<br />
Charlie Starmer was born May 14, 1913, moved to DeSmet on May 27, 2011. He has two<br />
children, four grandchildren and four great grandchildren. He was in the military from<br />
1942 to 1946. He enjoys crafts, drawing, poetry, writing, gardening, fishing, and music.<br />
Harry Ehringer<br />
Charlie Starmer<br />
Dorothy Elliott<br />
Ouida Herring<br />
Harriet Hyer<br />
Druscilla Davidson<br />
Joseph “Pop” Bentz<br />
-9-<br />
Gertrude Ceruttih<br />
Florence Perkins
Who is my Family? Who is my Neighbor? (cont.)<br />
2) I think these Scriptures are telling us to be a good neighbor which means to care and to act accordingly in<br />
attitude and in deed. It means to be patient with those who are different.<br />
A few weeks ago, Peter Peabody , our Vice President of Health Care Operations, gave me a copy of what is<br />
titled ”The Best Prayer I Have Heard in a Long Time.”<br />
Heavenly Father, Help us remember that the jerk who cut us off in traffic last night<br />
is a single father who worked nine hours that day and was rushing home to cook<br />
dinner, help with homework, do the laundry, and spend a few precious moments with<br />
his children.<br />
Help us to remember that the pierced, tattooed, disinterested young man who can’t make<br />
change correctly is a worried 19-year-old college student, balancing his apprehension over<br />
final exams with his fear of not getting his student loans for next semester.<br />
Remind us, Lord, that the scary looking bum begging for money in the same spot every<br />
day (who really ought to get a job!) is a slave to addictions that we can only imagine in our<br />
worst nightmares.<br />
Help us to remember that the old couple walking annoyingly slow through the store aisles<br />
and blocking our shopping progress are savoring this moment, knowing that, based on the<br />
biopsy report she got back last week, this will be the last year that they go shopping together.<br />
Heavenly Father, remind us each day that, of all the gifts you give us, the greatest gift is love.<br />
It is not enough to share that love with those we hold dear. Open our hearts not to just those<br />
who are close to us, but to all humanity. Let us be slow to judge and quick to forgive, show<br />
patience, empathy and love.<br />
3) We should never forget the difference we make when we become a good neighbor and extend our family.<br />
The “In Their Own Words” book, which we produced for our 50th Anniversary, reminds us of the<br />
difference we make. And I frequently get letters of gratitude.<br />
4) What we do is a calling. It’s not merely a job—it’s a vocation.<br />
We’ve been holding 50th Anniversary celebrations in all of our communities. At one of them, a country western<br />
group played and sang, ”We Are Standing on Holy Ground”. It struck me that that’s part of the motivation for<br />
doing what we do. We have been entrusted with a sacred mission as stewards of a planet we did not create.<br />
It’s holy ground with a sacred mission, to care for people, to go and do likewise.<br />
And finally, we are constructing our own legacy.<br />
I seldom go home for lunch but recently I did so. I turned on the TV to catch the news and the first channel had<br />
a memorial service for Michael Crain, a police officer who had been shot by an enraged Christopher Dorner<br />
(one of four officers killed during the week he terrorized southern California).<br />
I decided to change channels but found that every TV station was carrying this service which was attended by<br />
8,000 people. So I thought there must be something I’m supposed to see. The concluding lines from the minister’s<br />
sermon rang a bell: “ When this day comes for you, what will they say about you? Will they say that you<br />
have made a difference in the lives of people?”<br />
I thought, Wow! That’s what I’m supposed to hear. When we care for our enlarged family and neighbors as<br />
our vocation, we make a difference in their lives and it’s not all one way.<br />
We are creating our own legacy.<br />
May we find our own lives blest as we make a difference in the lives<br />
of others.<br />
PS. I have had a number of requests for the complete sermon.<br />
If you would like a copy please send an e-mail or letter to<br />
chris.ragon@ rhf.org.<br />
-10-
Honoring Some Incredible Individuals<br />
A pessimist, they say, sees a glass of water as being half empty; an optimist sees the<br />
same glass as half full. But a giving person sees a glass of water and starts looking for<br />
someone who might be thirsty.<br />
- G. Thomas Gale<br />
April has been designated as National Volunteer Month and it seems only fitting that we take a few pages in<br />
this publication to recognize some of the thousands of individuals and groups who make a difference to our<br />
residents and in our communities on a daily basis.<br />
<strong>RHF</strong>’s <strong>2013</strong> Local Board Member of the Year<br />
Levern Allen - North Capitol at Plymouth, Washington, D. C.<br />
<strong>RHF</strong>’s <strong>2013</strong> Volunteer of the Year<br />
Cathy Cantey - The Carolinian, Florence, South Carolina<br />
Cathy is a remarkable woman who lights up a room with her positive<br />
energy. Cathy has been volunteering at The Carolinian since 2011, working<br />
closely with Activity Director Virginia Brown. At The Carolinian Cathy<br />
wears an infectious smile and is able to get everyone involved in community<br />
activities. She is a peacemaker at heart and uses her relational skills to<br />
bring residents together. The residents, especially those in The Carolinian’s<br />
Assisted Living community, frequently express their gratitude for her<br />
sincere dedication and enthusiastic attitude.<br />
Cathy is able to serve her residents holistically. Along with facilitating<br />
recreational activities, she also provides emotional and spiritual support to residents and their families. She<br />
embodies <strong>RHF</strong>’s mission to provide an environment for residents that enhances their quality of life in all facets<br />
including the physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.<br />
Not only is Cathy making a difference in the lives of <strong>RHF</strong> residents, she volunteers at several other organizations.<br />
Cathy runs arts and crafts classes for Lake City Senior Center, sings in her church choir, teaches Sunday school,<br />
and volunteers for Light House Ministry where she collects and distributes blankets for those in need. She also<br />
volunteers at House of Hope where she advocates for homeless children and their parents. Cathy is passionate<br />
about serving her community and giving voice to the voiceless.<br />
For all her service to The Carolinian community and other charitable organizations, <strong>RHF</strong> is pleased to present<br />
Ms. Cathy Cantey with the <strong>2013</strong> Volunteer of the Year Award.<br />
-11-<br />
Volunteers<br />
Levern has been serving the <strong>RHF</strong> community since 2003. She began her<br />
service and was instrumental in the development of North Capitol at<br />
Plymouth. She was a moving force in her church and local community<br />
to help bring about North Capitol at Plymouth. Levern spent a significant<br />
amount of time going over architectural plans, speaking at briefing<br />
meetings on developments, and sharing the vision of <strong>RHF</strong> with her local<br />
community.<br />
Levern was very involved in the start up of North Capitol at Plymouth<br />
but she also has a presence in the residents’ daily lives. She uses her background as a DC public school<br />
speech teacher to advocate for seniors on issues related to low-income housing. Levern also works closely<br />
with the resident manager to see that the concerns of residents are recognized and addressed. Her refined<br />
communication skills and caring heart are beneficial to North Capitol residents’ health, maintenance and<br />
informational needs. Levern’s passion and caring attitude is an inspiration to us all.<br />
For all of her hard work, commitment, and enthusiasm, <strong>RHF</strong> is pleased to present Ms. Levern Allen the <strong>2013</strong><br />
Local Board Member of the Year Award.
Volunteers<br />
Alice Sexton<br />
<strong>RHF</strong>’s National Advisory Commission Chair<br />
Alice Sexton has been involved with <strong>RHF</strong> for 15 years. Her enthusiasm for<br />
life is infectious and she brings a smile to those who have the pleasure of<br />
working with her.<br />
Gavin Kirkwood is a senior at Biola University (La Mirada, CA) and has worked<br />
as an Intern in <strong>RHF</strong>’s Communications Department throughout the <strong>Spring</strong>. He has<br />
contributed significantly to this newsletter and to the creation of <strong>RHF</strong>’s Facebook<br />
page that was recently launched. He interviewed Alice for this article.<br />
One of the best things about interning with <strong>RHF</strong> is the chance to connect<br />
with a rich heritage of the people who make up the <strong>RHF</strong> family. At the Annual<br />
Banquet I had the pleasure of meeting the Sextons. This couple has<br />
been instrumentally involved in the <strong>RHF</strong> Mission for the last 15 years.<br />
This interview was a chance to get to know Mrs. Alice Sexton a little better.<br />
As someone who truly embodies the <strong>RHF</strong> mission, it was such a pleasure to<br />
hear her story and the things she is involved with on the Advisory Commission<br />
Board.<br />
Gavin: So Alice, what first drew you and your husband to <strong>RHF</strong>?<br />
Alice: We first learned about the great work of <strong>RHF</strong> through a family friend,<br />
Aaron Herrington, who was a previous <strong>RHF</strong> Board member. He would<br />
frequently tell us how <strong>RHF</strong> was making a difference in so many seniors’<br />
lives. At the same time we both were noticing some of our own relatives<br />
searching for affordable housing as they aged, often being placed on long<br />
waiting lists for units far from their current homes.<br />
When we saw the lack of growth in affordable housing and a greater need each<br />
year for seniors on fixed incomes, we knew we had to do something. When Rev.<br />
Joseph asked my husband to consider becoming an <strong>RHF</strong> Board member, he<br />
jumped at the opportunity! We both saw this as a perfect occasion to assist in<br />
improving the quality of life for people from all backgrounds with an organization<br />
that was already making such a positive impact on the lives of thousands of<br />
seniors across the country.<br />
Gavin: So now you are retired from teaching, how do you spend your time?<br />
Alice: Right now I am taking classes at CSULB, visiting the gym, and supporting my<br />
husband’s many volunteer involvements. I am also getting reacquainted with<br />
crocheting and knitting!<br />
Gavin: What are some of the recent projects you’ve worked on with the <strong>RHF</strong> Advisory Commission Board?<br />
Alice: Some of the most recent projects/activities includes the In Their Own Words book, the Annual Wrappers<br />
Project, and the Advisory Commission chairmanship. I love getting to see the <strong>RHF</strong> mission in action by meeting<br />
residents and hearing their stories and how <strong>RHF</strong> has helped them along the way. Since I live in the same city as the<br />
National Headquarters, I get to likewise see the hardworking staff up close as they serve in their own dedicated<br />
ways on a daily basis. Each employee’s positive attitude and dedicated work ethic warms my heart.<br />
Gavin: So what upcoming projects can the <strong>RHF</strong> communities be on the lookout for?<br />
Alice: When I visit various facilities and hear staff members recount resident stories I’ve noticed that many of our<br />
residents are talented people with skills to share and showcase. One such talent many <strong>RHF</strong> facility residents possess<br />
is cooking and there is always an interesting story behind that favorite dish. That’s why we are creating the <strong>RHF</strong><br />
Story Behind the Recipe Book!<br />
The Advisory Commission along with <strong>RHF</strong>’s Communications Department are assisting various facilities as they<br />
gather such recipes and stories from their diverse residents. Contests, cook offs, tasting events, food celebrations are<br />
being planned nationwide that will support this exciting publication. We want to focus on the personal story behind<br />
the recipes we feature. This is going to be such a great way to spread the positive word about the caring <strong>RHF</strong> family!<br />
-12-
Bella Villeza<br />
Angelus Plaza - Los Angeles, California<br />
-13-<br />
Volunteers<br />
Volunteers are the only human beings on the face of the earth who reflect this nation’s<br />
compassion, unselfish caring, patience, and just plain love for one another.<br />
- Erma Brombeck<br />
Over the past 12 years, Bella has put in over 9,000 hours of service to the<br />
<strong>RHF</strong> Angelus Plaza. She serves her community in so many different<br />
ways. Bella has been instrumental in running the Third Floor Library<br />
where she shelves books and treats each visitor with a high degree of care<br />
and professionalism. Bella always takes the time and patience to listen to<br />
needs of those around her; she is a deeply compassionate person.<br />
Education is one of Bella’s strongest passions. She served as a Senior<br />
Mentor in Angelus Plaza’s Continuation High School (fully accredited by<br />
the Los Angeles School District). During her service, Bella did so much<br />
more than help with reading comprehension, literacy and book reports, she showed a group of people both<br />
young and old that it is never too late to learn.<br />
Bella is also a gifted performer! She plays classical piano during community events throughout the year. Her<br />
musical talent is such an asset to the Angelus Plaza community.<br />
Ellen Herring - San Gabriel Valley Literacy Council<br />
The Concord - Pasadena, California<br />
There are so many things that we can take for granted in our modern high-tech<br />
society. The ability to be unified by a common language is definitely one<br />
of them. Ellen Herring is a volunteer with the San Gabriel Valley Literacy<br />
Council and has been serving the residents of The Concord for the last<br />
7 years. Ellen provides services geared towards improving their English<br />
listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. No matter where a resident<br />
is at in the learning process, Ellen meets them at their level and helps them<br />
immensely.<br />
These classes are so much more than just a way to acquire language skills.<br />
These classes are a way to grow closer as <strong>RHF</strong> neighbors. The classes provide<br />
an opportunity for residents from diverse cultural backgrounds to share<br />
cross cultural understanding. There have been so many strong friendships that have come out of her program.<br />
Ellen reminds us that learning improves lives and entire communities, one lesson at a time. <strong>RHF</strong> is grateful<br />
and deeply honored to have Ellen as a volunteer.<br />
The Residents of Towne Creek Apartments<br />
Towne Creek Apartments - McKinney, Texas<br />
Volunteering is so important to the people living in McKinney,<br />
Texas that they have an organization, Volunteer McKinney, that<br />
does nothing but pair up people/groups who want to volunteer<br />
with organizations that need volunteers.<br />
The residents of Towne Creek Apartments have a lot of different<br />
talents and the desire to give back to their community, so it<br />
was inevitable that Dana Riley, Executive Director of Volunteer<br />
McKinney would end up speaking to residents about volunteer<br />
opportunities.<br />
The plan is to bring the volunteer projects to the residents who<br />
don’t necessarily have the transportation to get to the organizations who need them. In the picture, residents<br />
work on table cards for the “Spirit of McKinney” luncheon - an event honoring McKinney’s volunteers.
Charitable Giving<br />
In Memory of . . .<br />
“We support <strong>RHF</strong> because they build and provide services to the<br />
nation’s seniors. Many of these folks are veterans, former educators,<br />
civil servants, mothers, fathers, etc. that have served and nourished<br />
future generations. They deserve to be treated with respect and<br />
utmost care in their twilight years. <strong>RHF</strong> recognizes those contributions<br />
and gives its seniors their highest priority.”<br />
– U. S. Bank<br />
The Best Things In Life<br />
It’s been said that “the best things in life are free” and “a penny saved is a penny earned”, so as you get<br />
ready for the warmer days of spring here are 13 ways to keep busy and save some money in <strong>2013</strong>.<br />
1. Visit your local library. America’s 17,000 public libraries offer free access to books, DVDs,<br />
music, computers and the Internet. (This is a great place to start as websites are provided for<br />
details on many of the other freebies!)<br />
2. Is it your birthday? Enjoy the wide range of freebies on your special day offered by national<br />
and local establishments. Visit www.bdayfreeday.com to locate some in your area.<br />
3. Check out your community calendar. Every day there are free and interesting things taking<br />
place like concerts and art festivals. Check out your town’s website or community paper for details.<br />
4. Take a factory tour. You can see how everything from chocolate to candy to beer is made. Best<br />
of all, many tours are free (others charge a small fee) and offer product samples as part of the<br />
tour. To find tours in your area visit www.factorytoursusa.com.<br />
5. Volunteer. It is its own reward, but sometimes it comes with the perk of admission to a special<br />
event. Your local community has a variety of opportunities like ushering at theaters or concert<br />
halls for free admission to a show.<br />
(Continued on page 15)<br />
Kris Amberg:<br />
Joanne Silva<br />
Rex & Gertrude Chapman:<br />
Mr. & Mrs. James Collinson<br />
Lucile Whittier<br />
Ernest Frank:<br />
Lucile Whittier<br />
Alan Furuta:<br />
Mr. & Mrs. Tom Masuda<br />
Clark Harshfield:<br />
Linda Listoe<br />
Kathryn Larson:<br />
Rev. Dr. & Mrs. Robert Potter<br />
Genevieve Dodson Meikle:<br />
Mr. & Mrs. Raymond East<br />
Lizanne Moncrief:<br />
William Moncrief<br />
Jean Moore Warrick:<br />
Lucile Whittier<br />
Clarence Darrow Pendergrass:<br />
Patricia Mason-Cook<br />
William & Buni Rader:<br />
Lucile Whittier<br />
William Rader:<br />
Mr. & Mrs. Tom Masuda<br />
Frank Schatzlein:<br />
Jane Schatzlein<br />
Uma & Clarence Teufel:<br />
Mr. & Mrs. Stanley Sekerka<br />
Merrill Whittier:<br />
Mr. & Mrs. Tom Masuda<br />
Lucile Whittier<br />
-14-
<strong>RHF</strong> Circle of Friends<br />
-15-<br />
Charitable Giving<br />
The <strong>RHF</strong> Circle of Friends is our legacy society. There are many ways to qualify for membership, such as <strong>RHF</strong> gift<br />
annuities that provide lifetime income to the donor, life insurance, real estate gifts, charitable remainder trusts,<br />
and gifts from pension fund assets and/or simply including <strong>RHF</strong> in your Will or Trust. For more information in confidence<br />
and without obligation, contact our Charitable Giving Department, at (562) 257-5141.<br />
We are grateful for our <strong>RHF</strong> Circle of Friends members:<br />
Karolla Brice<br />
Jean G. Dremstedt<br />
Bernice E. Elkin, MD<br />
Robert S. Fliehmann*<br />
Burton L. French<br />
Alice R. Good*<br />
Rev. Dr. Teruo & Kiku Kawata<br />
Eveleth “Evie” Miller*<br />
Major Fitzhugh L. O’Neill*<br />
Virginia Paddock<br />
Eric H. Pierson*<br />
Jane Shenbarger<br />
Miriam P. Vandenbush*<br />
Richard Walinch*<br />
Eleanor J. West<br />
Vera Wolpert*<br />
(*indicates members who have passed away)<br />
Lydia Cerveny*<br />
Raymond E. East<br />
Dr. and Mrs.* Charles Fain<br />
Dolores P. Foga<br />
Toshiko Okazaki Fukuda*<br />
Wanda Haudek*<br />
Laverne R. Joseph<br />
Jean Moore Warrick*<br />
Jean H. P. Oppenheimer<br />
Edythe Patterson<br />
Marian Rhane<br />
Elsie Valek<br />
Anna Mae Wakefield*<br />
William L. Warrick<br />
Norman A. Whaley*<br />
The Best Things In Life (cont.)<br />
6. Take an online course from MIT or Harvard. That’s right; with these courses, you won’t<br />
receive credit towards a degree program, but if learning is your goal, the knowledge you’ll gain<br />
is all the same. Find a list of courses at www.openculture.com/freeonlinecourses.<br />
7. Visit a friend or neighbor. There’s always a person or two in your life that could use a friendly<br />
visit or helping hand.<br />
8. Did you know that 265 of our 398 national parks never charge an entrance fee? Plus, every<br />
year free days are offered at all parks. In <strong>2013</strong>, those days are Jan. 21, April 22-26, Aug. 25,<br />
Sept. 28 and Nov. 9-11. Locate a national park at www.nps.gov/findapark.<br />
9. Visit your local zoo, museum, science center or art gallery. Many offer free educational<br />
presentations and exhibits. Check your local listing for information.<br />
10. Do some local sightseeing. Every community has a historic registry of homes, buildings,<br />
sites and districts. It’s a great way to learn more about your neighborhood. Locate places in<br />
your area at www.nps.gov/history/nr/research.<br />
11. Attend a free community class. Many stores offer free classes on all sorts of topics. Stop by a<br />
local food store and catch a free cooking class, or a hardware store to learn about a home repair topic.<br />
12. Look for unclaimed funds. It is legitimate, free and has helped countless people. You can<br />
search for forgotten bank accounts, security deposits, inheritances and a wide range of other<br />
assets at www.unclaimed.org.<br />
13. Sample a new product. Free samples and coupons are easier to receive than ever before.<br />
With a variety of categories to search, visit www.heyitsfree.net.
Donors<br />
Thank you<br />
<strong>RHF</strong><br />
National<br />
Headquarters<br />
The following people made gifts to the<br />
<strong>RHF</strong> designated funds (see donor form)<br />
through our national office from<br />
11/1/2012 to 3/1/13:<br />
U.S. Bank<br />
for your generous gift of<br />
$20,000<br />
in support of<br />
<strong>RHF</strong>’s Mission<br />
Aging Disabilities<br />
Charities America<br />
Buena Angel<br />
Anonymous<br />
Ken Ayala<br />
Carmelita Bell<br />
Evangel Bettridge<br />
Lashay Black<br />
Carolina Blancaflor<br />
Capt. Karolla Brice<br />
Cars for Causes<br />
Mr. & Mrs. James Collinson<br />
Rev. Dr. Norma &<br />
Col. John De Saegher<br />
Linda Dearing<br />
Antoinette Dobson<br />
Hazel Dodson<br />
Jean Dremstedt<br />
Mr. & Mrs. Raymond East<br />
Linda Forsberg<br />
Denise Hammer<br />
Frances Harris<br />
In Honor of . . .<br />
. . . Residents of 300 Main<br />
Linda Forsberg<br />
. . . Collen Adams<br />
Mark A. Kadzielske, Esq.<br />
Angela Castillo Hernandez<br />
Melodee Jones<br />
Ginger Joseph<br />
Mark A. Kadzielski, Esq.<br />
Mary Kammrath<br />
Mr. & Mrs. Donald King<br />
Jesse Landes<br />
Virginia Leveque<br />
Linda Listoe<br />
Anecita Mangaron<br />
Kevin Manz<br />
Patricia Mason-Cook<br />
Mr. & Mrs. Tom Masuda<br />
Mr. & Mrs. James McGowan<br />
Dr. & Mrs. Dailey McPeak<br />
Flora Mejicanos<br />
Jose Melendez<br />
William Moncrief<br />
Judith Moore<br />
Wayne Mullin<br />
Rita Nealy<br />
William Niehoff<br />
. . . Alyssa Divers<br />
Mr. & Mrs. Raymond East<br />
. . . Laverne Joseph<br />
Mary Kammrath<br />
Marlene Olsen<br />
Mary O’Neill<br />
Partners For A Better World<br />
Helen Peiker<br />
Rev. Dr. & Mrs. Robert Potter<br />
Barbara Gray Richley<br />
Jane Schatzlein<br />
Rev. & Mrs. Harold Schultz, Jr.<br />
Mr. & Mrs. Stanley Sekerka<br />
Dr. & Mrs. Darryl Sexton<br />
Stewart Simington<br />
Alys Solar<br />
Roy Soliwoda<br />
Kimberly Sowma-Thomas<br />
Rev. Dr. & Mrs. John Trnka<br />
Virgin Mary Ethiopian Orthodox<br />
Tewahedo Church<br />
Warner Bros. Television Production<br />
John Whisker<br />
Lucile Whittier<br />
Judy Ann Williams<br />
. . . Shirley Linde<br />
Stephen Ramirez<br />
. . . Maxine Montgomery<br />
Bernice Elkin, M. D.<br />
-16-
Thank You <strong>2013</strong> Major Donors<br />
We are grateful to the following businesses that contributed a major gift to the <strong>RHF</strong> mission.<br />
They were recognized during our 52nd Annual Meeting in February <strong>2013</strong>.<br />
Diamond Donor $10,000<br />
Reuben Raucher & Blum<br />
Platinum $7,500<br />
California Bank & Trust<br />
SullivanCurtisMonroe<br />
Reuben, Raucher & Blum<br />
Schochet Associates, Inc.<br />
HD Supply<br />
Gold $3,500<br />
Latham & Watkins, LLP Dauby O’Connor & Zaleski Cook Construction<br />
Westport Construction National Affordable <strong>Housing</strong> Trust<br />
Novogradac & Co., LLP<br />
Gold/Silver ($2,500)<br />
Bank of America<br />
Silver $1,500<br />
Accurate Business Results Direct Supply Equipment Alpha Construction<br />
Clifton Larson Allen, LLP Merrill Lynch KTGY Group<br />
Klein Hornig, LLP Walton Construction Quest Construction<br />
Morrisseey Construction California Enterprise Community Investment<br />
WASH Multifamily Laundry Systems Bonne, Bridges, Mueller, O’Keefe & Nichols<br />
Harvey & Beth Oringher - Theodora, Oringher, Miller & Richmond PC<br />
Silver/Bronze $1,000<br />
Michael Orber & Associates<br />
Bronze $750<br />
Palmer Kazanjian Wohl Hodson, LLP Yokota & Associates Hill Ward Henderson<br />
DaVinci Communications M Group - Architects Sheraton Cerritos Hotel<br />
Trefethen Floral Design<br />
Ungaretti & Harris, LLP<br />
Friends (below $749)<br />
Benrich Services Criterion Brock Flooring The Abo Group<br />
-17-
“Supporting <strong>RHF</strong> enhances the lives of seniors, improves<br />
the quality of our community and recognizes the contributions<br />
that our biggest heroes make to society.”<br />
- Capital Foresight<br />
<strong>RHF</strong> Team Givers<br />
Our staff members perform important daily duties to make shelter and service a reality for the people we<br />
serve. Staff members who additionally choose to voluntarily support <strong>RHF</strong> through monetary donations are<br />
contributing to the fiscal health of our mission. We are extremely grateful for their optional financial commitment<br />
as well as the investment they already have made with their hearts, lives and careers.<br />
The following staff members personally contributed to our mission since our last newsletter:<br />
Collen Adams<br />
Francis Adarmes<br />
Lyliana Alvarez<br />
DeRenteria<br />
Robert Amberg<br />
Shana Anders<br />
Jonas Angeles<br />
Christine Baca<br />
Nada Battaglia<br />
Duncan Bradbury<br />
Marc Braun<br />
Donna Burkhong<br />
Pamela Canty<br />
Christine Cerrato<br />
John Chandler<br />
Jacqui Chew<br />
Patrice Clark<br />
Heather Cline<br />
John Clow<br />
Inez Codeus<br />
Dave Cooley<br />
Janeete Cooper<br />
Leonardo Corpuz<br />
Sherri Coster<br />
Carmen Covarubias<br />
Philamena Decker<br />
Chantal Denny<br />
Andres Diaz<br />
Thanh Do<br />
Conrad Dungca<br />
Koley Ellingson<br />
Maggie Engelberg<br />
Emily Fennimore<br />
Jeffrey Ferguson<br />
Deborah Fischer<br />
Celina Flores<br />
Delia Gambino<br />
Lynn Gamble<br />
Perry Glenn<br />
Anna Graddy<br />
Calvin Hara<br />
Delores Harris<br />
Jennifer Hart<br />
Stuart Hartman<br />
Emily Hidalgo<br />
Gregory Hook<br />
Evet Howard<br />
Cheryl Howell<br />
Melissa Sims Jackson<br />
Pamela Jennings<br />
Kerry Jennings<br />
Terressa Johnson<br />
Laverne Joseph<br />
Richard Justiniano<br />
Ken Kaser<br />
Lorri Kavich<br />
Judith Keithley<br />
Teresa Kennedy<br />
Arnold Kim<br />
Deborah Kindler<br />
Deborah Kirksey<br />
Dina Marie Kulzer<br />
Kathy Larson<br />
Charlene Lawrence-Rice<br />
Riji Lee<br />
Julie Lemke<br />
Diane Lespron<br />
Cathy Levario<br />
Lynn Lichtenstern<br />
Bernadette Lindsay<br />
Teresita Liwanag<br />
Juan Lopez<br />
Brian Magnone<br />
Mark Malloy<br />
Kathy Mammel<br />
Pam Maxfield<br />
LaVonne Mickelson<br />
Mary Midkiff<br />
Stacey Montero<br />
Rosaura Morales<br />
Phil Mosqueira<br />
Christopher Mullen<br />
Rachel Murphy<br />
Beth Murphy<br />
Leah Darleen Nelson<br />
Jacqueline Ng<br />
Young Park<br />
Peter Peabody<br />
Gloria Pedregon<br />
Delores Peters<br />
Mary Pressler<br />
Laci Price<br />
Larethia Prince<br />
Dolores Quijano<br />
Chris Ragon<br />
Janie Reyna<br />
Tina Robinson<br />
Frank Rossello<br />
Cynthia Rudon<br />
In Green = Sterling Club members made donation via payroll deductions<br />
Gloria Ruiz<br />
Christina Ryan<br />
Dorothy Sanders<br />
Wendy Scott<br />
Kristin Sharum<br />
Judy Shaw<br />
Luella Shelton<br />
Joanne Silva<br />
Pwint Soe<br />
Margaret Spiller<br />
Jennifer Staley<br />
Lakisha Steed<br />
Rhonda Stewart<br />
Joy Stone<br />
John Stonecipher<br />
Deborah Stouff<br />
Myungeun Strickland<br />
Suzanne Taylor<br />
Eloisa Tec<br />
Barbara Thorn<br />
Karleen Thorpe<br />
Stephanie Titus<br />
Olga Torres<br />
Buffy Tressler<br />
Lorna Valencia<br />
Wendy Vanderhart<br />
Richard Washington<br />
Florence Webb<br />
Joella Willey<br />
Wilma Wilson<br />
Diane Wink<br />
Sharon Young<br />
Timothy Zalesny<br />
Patricia Zappone<br />
-18-
Matching Your Charitable Goals With The Right Type Of Gift<br />
Cash Securities Bequest<br />
Life<br />
Insurance<br />
Charitable<br />
Gift<br />
Annuity<br />
<strong>Retirement</strong><br />
Plan<br />
Assets, IRA<br />
Real<br />
Estate<br />
Personal<br />
Property<br />
How does it work?<br />
What do you want it to do?<br />
How do you make the gift?<br />
Donor Benefits<br />
Reduce estate tax<br />
Give Cash<br />
Maximize the<br />
deduction,<br />
minimize the<br />
gift details<br />
Write a check<br />
or give online<br />
now<br />
Removes<br />
taxable assets<br />
from the<br />
estate<br />
Give<br />
appreciated<br />
securities<br />
Avoid tax on<br />
capital gains,<br />
afford a<br />
larger gift to<br />
<strong>RHF</strong><br />
Contribute<br />
longterm<br />
appreciated<br />
stock or other<br />
marketable<br />
securities<br />
Removes<br />
taxable assets<br />
from the<br />
estate<br />
Simplest<br />
form of gift<br />
planning<br />
(plan now,<br />
give later)<br />
Make a gift<br />
that costs<br />
nothing<br />
during your<br />
lifetime<br />
Name <strong>RHF</strong><br />
in your will<br />
or living trust<br />
by designating<br />
a specfic<br />
amount of a<br />
share of the<br />
residue<br />
Donation<br />
exempt from<br />
federal estate<br />
tax<br />
Name <strong>RHF</strong> as<br />
beneficiary<br />
and owner of<br />
the policy<br />
Make a large<br />
gift at little<br />
cost<br />
Donate paidup<br />
policy you<br />
no longer need<br />
or take out a<br />
new policy<br />
Donation<br />
exempt from<br />
federal estate<br />
tax<br />
Simple gift<br />
contract that<br />
provides<br />
lifetime<br />
payments to<br />
one or two<br />
persons<br />
Supplement<br />
income with<br />
steady<br />
payments<br />
that are partially<br />
tax-free<br />
Establish a<br />
gift annuity<br />
contract with<br />
<strong>RHF</strong> that<br />
pays a set<br />
amount for<br />
life<br />
Removes<br />
taxable assets<br />
from the<br />
estate<br />
Name <strong>RHF</strong> as<br />
beneficiary<br />
of the plan<br />
Avoid double<br />
taxation at<br />
death;<br />
give tax<br />
advantaged<br />
assets to heirs<br />
Name <strong>RHF</strong><br />
as a whole or<br />
partial successor<br />
beneficiary<br />
on your plan’s<br />
form<br />
Donation<br />
exempt from<br />
federal estate<br />
tax<br />
Give<br />
appreciated<br />
real estate<br />
Make a<br />
substantial<br />
gift, avoid<br />
capital gains<br />
tax, receive a<br />
large income<br />
deduction<br />
Donate the<br />
property to<br />
<strong>RHF</strong><br />
Removes<br />
taxable assets<br />
from the<br />
estate<br />
Give artwork,<br />
collectibles,<br />
vehicles or<br />
other types<br />
of tangible<br />
property<br />
Put assets<br />
you no longer<br />
need or can<br />
maintain to<br />
good use<br />
Donate tangible<br />
personal<br />
property<br />
related to our<br />
tax exempt<br />
function<br />
Removes<br />
taxable assets<br />
from the<br />
estate<br />
Reduce income tax<br />
Immediate<br />
deduction for<br />
full value<br />
Immediate<br />
deduction for<br />
full value<br />
Current<br />
deduction<br />
for paid-up<br />
policy. Future<br />
deductions<br />
for premium<br />
Deduction<br />
for gift portion<br />
of asset.<br />
Your heirs<br />
will avoid<br />
income tax<br />
Immediate<br />
deduction for<br />
full value<br />
Immediate<br />
deduction for<br />
full value if<br />
we can use<br />
the asset<br />
Reduce or eliminate<br />
capital gains<br />
Complete<br />
avoidance<br />
Complete<br />
avoidance<br />
Partial<br />
avoidance<br />
Complete<br />
avoidance<br />
Complete<br />
avoidance<br />
Get income back from the<br />
gift<br />
Fixed<br />
payments for<br />
life for one<br />
or two<br />
individuals<br />
Give an asset but keep<br />
enjoying it<br />
Control<br />
of assets<br />
during<br />
lifetime<br />
Continue<br />
to take<br />
withdrawals<br />
during<br />
lifetime<br />
More<br />
Still like the<br />
stock? Use<br />
your cash<br />
to buy at<br />
today’s price<br />
and lock in<br />
a higher cost<br />
basis<br />
Make a significant<br />
gift<br />
when you no<br />
longer need<br />
the assets.<br />
Simple to<br />
set up: small<br />
financial<br />
commitment<br />
for large<br />
ultimate gift.<br />
Great<br />
retirement<br />
income<br />
supplement<br />
Often<br />
overlooked,<br />
easily given<br />
Coordinate<br />
with us before<br />
making<br />
the donation<br />
Make a<br />
significant<br />
gift without<br />
cash outlay;<br />
Coordinate<br />
with us before<br />
making the<br />
donation.<br />
How does this benefit <strong>RHF</strong><br />
and its communities?<br />
Delivers<br />
immediate<br />
benefits<br />
Delivers<br />
immediate<br />
benefits<br />
Ensures<br />
our future<br />
strength<br />
Ensures<br />
our future<br />
strength<br />
Ensures<br />
our future<br />
strength<br />
Ensures<br />
our future<br />
strength<br />
Delivers<br />
immediate<br />
benefits<br />
Delivers<br />
immediate<br />
benefits<br />
-19-
<strong>Retirement</strong> <strong>Housing</strong> <strong>Foundation</strong><br />
911 N. Studebaker Road<br />
Long Beach, CA 90815-4900<br />
Tel: 562-257-5100 Fax: 562-257-5200<br />
www.rhf.org E-mail: info@rhf.org<br />
NONPROFIT<br />
organization<br />
U.S. Postage<br />
PAID<br />
LONG BEACH<br />
CALIFORNIA<br />
PERMIT<br />
NO. 739<br />
If I can show you a way to<br />
redirect your taxes to benefit<br />
your family, your community<br />
and our mission, will you<br />
give me 20 minutes to<br />
discuss that with you?<br />
Stephanie Titus, M.B.A., CFRE<br />
Director of Charitable Giving<br />
<strong>Retirement</strong> <strong>Housing</strong> <strong>Foundation</strong><br />
562-257-5141<br />
stephanie.titus@rhf.org<br />
A Labor of Love<br />
Linda Stevens, a resident of Anciano Tower (Montrose, CO), spent<br />
more than 400 hours completing the “Scenes of Colorado” Mural in<br />
the community’s laundry room wall this past winter.<br />
The mural depicts The Crystal Mill (Dead Horse Mill) built in 1893<br />
located 7 miles from Marble, Colorado. The mill had a horizontal<br />
water wheel which turned a compressor that was used to operate the<br />
air drills for at least two of the local mines on the hill above the mill.<br />
The mountains are San Juan Range, Mount Sneffels, Wilson Peak,<br />
Court House Mountain, Chimney Peak and Mears Peak. The lake is<br />
Lost Lake on Kebler Pass near Crested Butte, Colorado.<br />
Linda studied art at Utah Sate University in Logan, Utah. She shared an art studio<br />
in both Olathe and Montrose Colorado with fellow artists in the area where she<br />
taught art classes and did design work. She is a member of the Tole and Decorative<br />
Painters of American Association and Lincoln County Artist Guild in Ruidoso,<br />
New Mexico.<br />
The residents and staff of Anciano Towers are in awe of Linda’s artistic talent and<br />
feel that they are blessed to have Linda in their community and eagerly await the<br />
start of her next project.<br />
Who thought you could make doing your laundry such an enjoyable experience!