Eliza Jennings is dedicated to the health and safety of those we serve and are taking precautions based on Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services requirements.
(Olmsted Township, Ohio) – Eliza Jennings, a nationally recognized not-for-profit leader in aging services, has once again earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for Home Care Accreditation. Eliza Jennings at Home earned this distinction by demonstrating continuous compliance with Joint Commission performance standards. The Gold Seal is a symbol of quality that reflects a health care organization’s commitment to providing safe, excellent, and quality patient care.
To earn re-accreditation, Eliza Jennings underwent a rigorous, unannounced onsite review. During the visit, a team of Joint Commission reviewers evaluated compliance with home health standards spanning several areas including environment of patient care, infection prevention and control, emergency management, and rights and responsibilities of the individual. Additionally, the Joint Commission carefully reviewed agency policies and procedures to prevent and reduce the spread of COVID-19 among staff and clients in the community.
“Eliza Jennings is proud and honored to receive re-accreditation from The Joint Commission, a premier health care quality improvement and accrediting body,” said Eliza Jennings President and CEO Richard M. Boyson Jr. “Accreditation honors and validates the hard work and dedication of our staff in providing exceptional, compassionate care and outstanding services of the highest standards to the individuals we serve throughout the continuum of care.”
Eliza Jennings at Home works to meet all regulatory and accreditation requirements at all times, and as part of the preparation for the accreditation review process focuses additional attention on policy & procedure review, education for staff, and auditing and monitoring all quality improvement activities.
The Joint Commission’s standards are developed in consultation with health care experts and providers, measurement experts, and patients. They are informed by scientific literature and expert consensus to help health care organizations measure, assess, and improve performance.
“We commend Eliza Jennings at Home for its continuous quality improvement efforts in patient safety and quality of care,” said Mark Pelletier, RN, MS, chief operating officer, Accreditation and Certification Operations, and chief nursing executive, The Joint Commission. Patient safety and quality of care are at the forefront of Joint Commission standards and initiatives. Achieving accreditation makes a strong statement to the community about an organization’s efforts to provide the highest quality services.
Eliza Jennings at Home has provided a person-centered approach to quality home health care and services since 2006, and has been accredited by The Joint Commission since 2009.
(Olmsted Township, Ohio) – Eliza Jennings, a nationally recognized not-for-profit leader in aging services, is pleased to announce that the Renaissance Retirement Campus in Olmsted Township has successfully created a Certified Wildlife Habitat® through the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) Garden for Wildlife™ program.
The National Wildlife Federation, America’s largest wildlife conservation and education organization, recognizes the Renaissance’s efforts to create a garden that supports birds, butterflies, bees, frogs and other local wildlife. Every Certified Wildlife Habitat garden provides natural sources of food, water, cover, and places to raise young and is maintained in a sustainable way that incorporates native plants, conserves water, and doesn’t rely on pesticides. Certified Wildlife Habitat gardens are now also part of the Million Pollinator Garden Challenge, a national effort to create a million gardens that provide habitat for declining pollinator insects such butterflies and bees.
“We are tremendously proud to be designated as a Certified Wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation,” said Renaissance Executive Director Sandy Skerda. “The residents who comprise the Renaissance Nature Club’s membership deserve many thanks for their efforts in attaining this designation for our beautiful campus.”
Renaissance residents established the Nature Club in 2019. “The purpose of the Nature Club is twofold,” said Renaissance resident Hilton Young. “Members work to preserve the natural environment of the Renaissance campus’ green space for the enjoyment of residents, staff, and families; they also provide educational programs and opportunities for the utilization of the Campus grounds with specific emphasis on thoughtful, environmentally accepted programs.”
Thanks to the generous support of an anonymous Club member, a mile-long, wheelchair accessible nature trail will be constructed through the garden habitat. A contribution of a golf cart from resident Kathy Chapman will provide transportation to provide guided tours of the campus’ natural wildlife habitats. A commemorative sign, contributed by resident Dora Young, was presented to the Renaissance by the Nature Club, designating the campus as a certified wildlife habitat.
“The sign announces to visitors and prospective new members of our community that the Renaissance not only values the people who live here, but also the wildlife with whom we share our space,” said Nature Club President Ann Heidenreich.
The Renaissance Retirement Campus encompasses 100 acres and offers walking pathways offering wheelchair accessibility. The scenic campus features several freshwater ponds and natural areas that support a variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects. Native trees and plants abound.
Celebrating over 45 years, the Garden for Wildlife movement has recognized over 227,000 Certified Wildlife Habitat gardens across the United States to date, encompassing more than 2.5 million acres that support wildlife locally.
Participants who have their wildlife habitat garden certified receive a personalized certificate with a unique habitat number, a one-year membership to NWF with a subscription to National Wildlife magazine, a subscription to the Garden for Wildlife e-newsletter, a 10 percent discount to National Wildlife catalog, and the exclusive right to post a Certified Wildlife Habitat yard sign. For more information on NWF’s Garden for Wildlife movement and how to qualify to have a garden space recognized as a Certified Wildlife Habitat, visit https://www.nwf.org/garden or call 1-800-822-9919.
After the pandemic I was searching for a place for my elderly father who has dementia. I came across Acacia Place at the Eliza Jennings facility in Cleveland, Ohio. My experience working with Minnie the facility director has been nothing but wonderful. She has gone above and beyond helping to accommodate my family needs. A situation came up with my father so I called her to let her know. When I called her office I learned she was out for that day. I decided to leave her a voicemail. And in 5 minutes she called me back. I couldn’t believe it. Even on her day off she’s willing to extend herself to help me and my family. What a blessing she has been to my father and my family. The facility itself is beautiful and well maintained. I couldn’t ask for anything more.
(Cleveland, Ohio) – Eliza Jennings, a nationally recognized not-for-profit leader in aging services, announced the appointment of James W. Rogerson to the organization’s Board of Trustees effective March 2021.
“Jim’s extensive experience serving older adults and knowledge of the healthcare industry will be a tremendous asset to our organization,” said President and CEO Richard M. Boyson Jr. “His outstanding commitment to quality aging services will help us to continue to provide services that improve and enhance the health, well-being, and quality of life of the older adults we serve.”
Rogerson is chief operating officer at HealthPRO-Heritage, a contract therapy and consulting business serving continuing care retirement communities, skilled nursing facilities, assisted living communities, and home health agencies. With more than 30 years of experience in healthcare and aging services, Rogerson served as Eliza Jennings executive vice president of operations and chief operating officer from 1995 to 2007. He also served as president of Therapy Partners, a former Eliza Jennings business-to-business therapy company, from 2005 to 2010. Rogerson’s expertise includes strategic planning, fiscal management, program development and implementation, and construction/renovation work.
Rogerson holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science and Mathematics from Baldwin Wallace College, and a Master of Business Administration degree from Case Western Reserve University; he is a licensed nursing home administrator.
(Cleveland, Ohio) – Eliza Jennings, a not-for-profit leader in aging services, announced that Sandy Skerda, executive director at the Renaissance Retirement Campus in Olmsted Township, will be honored among McKnight’s 2021 Women of Distinction with the Veteran VIP Award.
The Women of Distinction Awards, in its third year, is a joint program of McKnight’s Long-Term Care News and McKnight’s Senior Living, publications serving senior living and long-term care professionals throughout the United States. The program recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the senior living or skilled nursing professions.
“We are thrilled that Sandy is being recognized among our peers in the aging services industry,” said Eliza Jennings President and CEO Richard M. Boyson Jr. “Throughout her 20-year career with our organization, Sandy has demonstrated tremendous professional growth, leadership, and a strong commitment to residents and staff members.”
The 2021 Veteran VIPs, a new category this year, includes executive directors and administrators from across the U.S. The inaugural class honors and recognizes women with more than 15 years of experience in aging services who have demonstrated an exceptional, long-term commitment to their field. Nominations were judged by an external panel of aging services experts. Skerda will be honored among other winners at a virtual awards celebration May 18. An educational forum will follow on May 19.
“Veteran VIPs have shown long-term commitment to their fields and help keep the industry stable,” said McKnight’s Editorial Director John O’Connor.
To learn more about McKnight’s Women of Distinction, Veteran VIPs Awards, and virtual events, visit www.mcknightswomenofdistinction.com.
Alexa and Devon Oaks Staff. Where do we begin to tell you how very special you all are. You touched our family with your kindness and friendship. As you saw, she loved people – teasing, laughing and kindness were her many star tributes to her personality. You all cared for her in so many ways. She would tell us how wonderful everyone was to her and she was surrounded by beautiful people. In her better times she would say she had the best cooks – she loved her food and praised the dining room. We appreciate all your help in getting us, and her, through the ups and downs. Your nursing staff is top notch. We became friends and they were all so gracious to us. They deeply cared for her and she loved them. To live to 98 years old is remarkable. She is sadly missed, but we have so many memories to cherish. Thank you all.
Thank you so much for the beautiful wind chimes and lovely note, and all your prayers! We are so very grateful mom could return to Devon Oaks for her last few days. You all were so loving and gentle with her. We are certain mom felt your love, care, and presence. Thank you for all your tremendous care. Thank you for creating a fun and happy home for mom during these past few years. She so enjoyed seeing all your smiling faces each day. She loved all the attention you gave her too. Mom always shared with us the fun games, activities, and her BINGO winnings. Thank you all. You are truly gifts to mom and us. Thank you for being so incredible.
(Cleveland, Ohio) – Devon Oaks Assisted Living welcomed its first residents on November 15, 2000. Eliza Jennings’ premier assisted living community, located in Westlake, Ohio, provides the ideal solution for older adults who are no longer able to manage living on their own without support. Devon Oaks residents enjoy a safe, comfortable home that promotes independence and provides individualized personal care and services as they need them. Families experience peace of mind knowing that 24-hour assistance is available for dressing, bathing, meals, and incontinence management. Specialized memory support services are also available.
“It is truly gratifying to be celebrating this milestone and to be recognized as a trusted, premier provider of aging services,” said Eliza Jennings President and CEO Richard M. Boyson Jr. “Residents and their families trust and rely on the dedicated, compassionate team members at Devon Oaks to provide the assistance they need. Our team members strive to get to know each resident and their preferences so they feel right at home.”
Residents have access to a staff geriatrician, physical therapists, and assistance with medications. Nurses and personal care assistants provide customized premium care 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They are available to assess the need for additional medical or urgent care and coordinate those services day or night. Excellent care is one reason that Devon Oaks has earned superior ratings from the Ohio Department of Health. This means a lot to family members, who enjoy peace of mind knowing that their parent or spouse is receiving the highest quality care and support in a secure home-like setting.
As the coronavirus pandemic continues to affect a growing number of individuals, the health and safety of our residents and staff remains our highest priority. Our team members are dedicated to providing residents the support and care they need during this challenging and unprecedented time.
To learn more or schedule a private tour of Devon Oaks Assisted Living, please call Dan Hoke at (440) 250-2300 or visit https://devonoaks.elizajennings.org/.
(Cleveland, Ohio) – Eliza Jennings is proud to be recognized by ERC as one of Northeast Ohio’s 99 best workplaces for top talent. This is the twelfth time that Eliza Jennings has earned the NorthCoast 99 Award.
NorthCoast 99 annually recognizes great places to work for top-performing people who drive quality outcomes, support industry leadership, and enable organizations to innovate and grow. Employers are evaluated based on policies and practices related to the attraction, engagement, and retention of top performers, as well as data collected from employee surveys. Best workplaces are recognized for practices that support challenging and meaningful work, excellent compensation and benefits, work/life balance, and career advancement.
“We are honored to be recognized as a NorthCoast 99 winner,” said Eliza Jennings President and CEO Richard M. Boyson Jr. “We know that this type of recognition only happens because of the talent and commitment of our team members. They excel in their dedicated service to our residents and in meeting our mission each day, especially during these unprecedented times. We are committed to creating a workplace that supports their personal and professional growth.” Eliza Jennings employs approximately 600 staff members throughout its aging services network.
“We’re thrilled to recognize and celebrate this year’s NorthCoast 99 award winners,” said Kelly Keefe, president of ERC. “Winning organizations are elevating the employee experience with increasingly progressive and innovative HR practices and benefits that are critical in today’s market.”
This year’s winners will be honored at a virtual NorthCoast 99 Awards program on September 10. Cleveland Magazine will publish a list of all winners in a special NorthCoast 99 supplement with the October issue. The 2020 NorthCoast 99 Awards program is sponsored by Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield; CareerCurve; Cleveland Magazine; ERChealth; Gino’s Awards; Impact Architects; Maloney + Novotny; Wayfind Creative; Meyers, Roman, Friedberg & Lewis; Oswald Companies; Staffing Solutions Enterprises; and Ultimate Software.
Founded in 1920, ERC helps organizations make their workplaces great by providing training, consulting, research, and HR support services.
Renaissance Breaks Ground for New Wellness Center with Aquatic Center and Expanded Fitness Rooms, and Expanded Casual Dining Venue
(Cleveland, Ohio) – The Renaissance Retirement Campus, Eliza Jennings’ premier life care community in historic Olmsted Township, is breaking ground for a new, state-of-the-art wellness center, expanded casual dining venue, and gift shop. The project is Phase I of a multi-year Master Facilities Plan to renovate and expand amenities and services at the Renaissance, located at 26376 John Road.
The project will feature a contemporary design and architectural elements that include stylish finishes and an emphasis on natural light. In addition to the saltwater pool, the aquatic center will feature high ceilings with exposed beams, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a roomy deck to invite relaxation and socialization. The new, 10,444 square-foot comprehensive fitness center will feature a saltwater pool for aquatic fitness, physical therapy, and recreation. A spacious fitness studio for group exercise and an expanded fitness equipment room are designed to offer world-class amenities and enhanced opportunities to develop balance, strength, flexibility, and maximum well-being for daily living. Residents and their guests will enjoy expanded seating and carry-out options for casual dining in the renovated Bistro, as well as a venue for private dining.
The project is designed to improve the satisfaction and comfort of current residents and attract new residents to the scenic 100-acre Campus, located at 26376 John Road.
“The Master Facilities Plan is the culmination of a multi-year planning process that began in 2017,” said Eliza Jennings President and Chief Executive Officer Richard M. Boyson Jr. “The Plan has generated tremendous anticipation and outlines a dynamic and vibrant Campus that will continue to offer an optimum life-enhancing environment for current and future Renaissance residents.”
The Master Facilities Plan includes additional renovations that will further enhance the Renaissance vibrant lifestyle community and will be underway over the next few years. Development of Phase 2 of the Master Facilities Plan is already in progress, and includes a new assisted living building that will offer expanded options for residents who may require advanced levels of care and services. The design of the new assisted living building will provide enhanced views of the surrounding 100-acre campus, as well as offer additional opportunities for residents to enjoy accessible outdoor spaces. Phase II completion is anticipated in 2021/22. Phase III of the Master Facilities Plan includes the renovation of the Renaissance skilled nursing community and is scheduled for completion in 2022/23.
Please visit https://renaissance.elizajennings.org/renaissance-renovations/ regularly to learn more about exciting project updates and progress.
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