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Pesach Edition 2016

March 2016

Inside this edition• Thanking Volunteers:

Our Heart & Soul• The Changing Face

of Volunteers• Transition to Emmy &

Positive Choices• Community Involvement

continues at Emmy• Club L’Chaim & Fiddler

on The Roof • Eldercare Asia Pacific

2016 Award Finalist• Bar Mitzvahs Shared

with Emmy• Tu B’Shvat Festival• Reverie Harp & The Gift

of Giving

Joe Krampel viewing Gandel House at Emmy Monash nearing completion. February, 2016.

Joe Krampel on cleared site. August, 2014.

COUNTDOWN TO THE COMPLETION OFGANDEL HOUSE AT EMMY MONASHGandel House at Emmy Monash is fast becoming an iconic community hub in Caulfield North. The completion of the building project is only months away and our dream of offering welcoming facilities with contemporary designed residential rooms in a bright, distinctive building is almost here.

Joe Krampel, President, is delighted with the successful implementation of the project and the overwhelming community support.

“Exactly two years since our Capital Appeal, we have delivered a residential aged care facility which will set new benchmarks

for Melbourne. We listened to what our community wanted and we have created a 21st century environment which redefines accommodation for seniors.”

The entire Emmy Monash community will benefit from the expanded community spaces, themed lifestyle program rooms, additional courtyards and the flexibility of the function rooms with garden access. Logistical planning is now underway to prioritise all in-servicing of staff and service providers over the coming months so we are fully operational during mid-2016. The safety and security of our residents is our paramount consideration during this

period and the precise transition dates will be determined by the successful implementation of all quality procedures.

There will be a series of opportunities to tour Gandel House, prior to the transition of residents to their new home, including two community Open Days. Please visit www.emmymonash.asn.au for all updates regarding Open Days and Tours. We encourage you to visit Gandel House at Emmy Monash and experience the positive environment created for family members and friends seeking residential aged care reflective of their Jewish traditions and values. The dream is now a reality!

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MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

As Pesach approaches most families at their Seder will reflect on the four big questions of how this night is different from all others. Ma Nishtana. It also seems a perfect time in our context to highlight how Emmy Monash is distinctly different from all other aged care providers in Melbourne, as we prepare for the opening of Gandel House at Emmy Monash.

People make Emmy. Our professional staff, management team, volunteers and board members work cohesively together to achieve outstanding outcomes for our residents. They are our key motivator and the central point of the community we serve.

Strategic planning, objectives and outcomes are not just words, but are

personalised, actioned and reviewed to reflect honest outcomes and opportunities to offer continuous quality improvement. These ongoing reviews spearhead the care and programs we deliver to our residents on a daily basis. We work in partnership with families to encourage a positive environment for every resident and cater for their individual needs and interests.

We are excited about the opening of Gandel House at Emmy Monash. Specifically, how these new facilities will expand our community spaces for our residents, staff and volunteers. We will offer bright new purpose designed rooms for lifestyle activities, pain management, additional courtyards and residential rooms. Personalised dining and lounge rooms, garden terraces and beautiful internal courtyards are a feature of the design, based on community consultation and feedback over several years.

Emmy Monash is truly a community hub. We deliver. We encourage inter- generational programs, attract corporate

partnerships and value supporters who recognise the difference a positive ageing environment has on their senior family members and friends.

In this edition, discover the increased profile of Youth Volunteers at Emmy; our involvement in Community Projects; attracting Bar Mitzvahs to a senior environment; Club L’Chaim at Fiddler; Valuing Transition and Choices; and the photographic highlights of Events at Emmy.

Yes, Emmy Monash is proud to be different from all others. We offer a highly regarded integration of services for our residents and their family.

I look forward to updating you about Open Days and the operations of Gandel House at Emmy Monash and how this new facility will enable our community to strive even further ahead to meet the increased demand for placements in Jewish residential aged care.

Wishing you a Happy Pesach.

Tanya Abramzon, CEO

THANKING VOLUNTEERS: OUR HEART & SOULA special celebration to honour and thank our volunteers was hosted in late 2015 at the Caulfield North home of Vivienne Fried.

Tanya Abramzon, CEO and Joe Krampel, President, were delighted to participate in the afternoon and casually chat with guests. Around 80 volunteers joined in the festivities where David Southwick MP reflected on his motivation to volunteer and proudly acknowledged the collective contribution of all our volunteers. Southwick presented prestigious Caulfield District Victoria Volunteer Awards to former Board Member, Dr Peter Felder, honoured for serving Emmy in significant roles for over 25 years; and two exceptional youth volunteers, Mount Scopus students, Hannah Estraich and Monique Lustig.

Vivienne Fried with her mother, Marianne Roth.

Ron Felder, Judy Fetter, Donor Relations Manager, Helen Felder and Dr Peter Felder. Margalit Goldberg and Miriam Brandt.

David Southwick MP, Hannah Estraich, Monique Lustig, Peter Felder and Maureen Shulsinger, Volunteer & Community Liaison Manager.

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Helen Freedman and Kelly Binder. Abby Aizenstros and Gerda Bandman.

THE CHANGING FACE OF VOLUNTEERSEmmy Monash has a strong history of bringing together youth and seniors across many programs and activities. Through our expanding youth volunteer program, an energetic and committed group of young people continue to build and shape these special connections with our residents.

The program sets us apart from other aged care providers, both for its positive impact on residents and as an important avenue of community participation for young people. Whether it’s helping out with one of Emmy’s many lifestyle programs, assisting with Shabbat, key Festivals and Events, or listening to residents and having a chat, that special interaction benefits our young volunteers and seniors alike.

“We are often overwhelmed how our youth volunteers, some barely in their teens, give up their time during weekends, school holidays and after hours to enrich the lives of older people. This diverse group bring a maturity, warmth and work ethic that is way beyond their years, and they all share a deep commitment to support our seniors,” says Maureen Shulsinger, Community and Volunteer Liaison Manager.

The roles of Volunteers at Emmy is diverse. Monique Lustig is one of our younger volunteers who assists in the Bierman Memory Support Unit. For most young people, working with dementia residents would be too challenging, but Monique has always displayed respect, sensitivity and an openness to learn. The Emmy community are so impressed by her manner it is difficult to believe she’s only in secondary school.

Another of Emmy’s youth volunteers is currently studying Occupational Therapy (OT) at Monash University. Recently relocated from Perth, and volunteering at Emmy in her spare time, Kelly Binder had only minimal contact with seniors in the past and the experience has helped her to gain confidence working with older people. “My grandparents passed away when I was young, so on a personal level this experience means a lot for me. The residents all have such fascinating and individual stories, as there are people here from all over the world, many of whom are helping to educate me about the Jewish community in Melbourne. The experience is pure enjoyment for me, I just love the interaction and it will be invaluable for my OT studies too.”

Kelly currently works on the iPad Connect program, largely facilitated by volunteers. She appreciates that the program is not so much about turning residents into technological experts, but about determining individual interests, then connecting residents with positive relevant experiences.

“I might show a YouTube clip of a resident’s favourite artist, or together

we’ll look up the Google Map location of where they used to live, which encourages them to open up about their history. As my rapport with the residents builds, they are encouraged to have the confidence to trust, engage and interact with me. Sharing such positive experiences is wonderful, even those with memory loss can connect in a nostalgic way through their long term recollections.”

Emmy Youth volunteers are often multi-tasking the pressures of study and work, so the flexibility offered by volunteering can allow sessions to be structured around educational commitments.

Recently completing VCE at Bialik College and about to embark on a Psychology degree at Monash, Abby Aizenstros will structure her volunteering in the Pain Management clinic and with the Shabbat program. “Between completing Year 12 and commencing university, I decided to spend time volunteering so I could give back after being so ‘tucked away’ during my final year. I’d visited Emmy Monash as part of an inter-generational program with Bialik College and I wanted to help out. I’m interested in health psychology and my experience at Emmy has definitely reinforced that.”

Emmy Monash is grateful for the extraordinary contribution of all our valued volunteers. Their commitment, integrity, warmth and professional approach enables many programs and services to thrive at Emmy. We are proud to see our youth volunteer program adding a further dimension to our established volunteer community.

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Mitzvah Day

Over 400 quality gifts were proudly donated and wrapped at Emmy, then delivered to underprivileged children at the 20th Man Fund. Les Twentyman OAM attended Mitzvah Day to meet our community members and give thanks for this overwhelming ‘mitzvah’.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT CONTINUES AT EMMYThe importance of actively contributing to themed days on the Jewish calendar is an important priority for Emmy Monash. The enthusiastic involvement of residents and Volunteers in the global Shabbat Project, Mitzvah Day and Chanukah Family Day reinforce this belief.

Margaret Heselev, Jamie Ajzenman, Robyn Krawitz and Zac Krawitz.

Monique Lustig, Hazel Goldman, Les Twentyman OAM and Ittay Flescher, Community Service Coordinator, Mount Scopus College.

Carmel Tofler, Jeremy Lowe and Kerryn Lowe.

Shabbat Project

Emmy Monash residents and family members packed the Lewinsky Plaza to participate in our Shabbat Project on 22nd October 2015. The internationally celebrated Challah Bake was led by Rebbetzin Miriam Telsner and coordinated by Charlene Miller and Maureen Shulsinger. The residents were joined by families and volunteers including Yavneh College students, who prepared challahs and shared in the experience of Jewish life across generations.

On Shabbat morning, Rabbi Stern invited Michael Cohen to lead the service, together with 40 B’Nei Akiva youth and also included an interactive session inviting residents to reflect on their Shabbat experiences from their countries of birth. Stories from across the globe revolved around family, their Jewish values, Ashkenazi and Sephardic traditions, and the importance of continuity. An exceptional Shabbat morning, for our residents and friends.

Cipa Pick, Brenda Kahan and Ariella Goldman.

Margot Birnbaum.

Students of Leibler Yavneh College and Ita Benchaim.

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TRANSITION TO EMMY & POSITIVE CHOICESWe are increasingly aware that people are living longer than ever before, and residential aged care is responding to this growing demand. At Emmy we are providing more care options, programs and new facilities to create positive environments that offer inclusive, relevant and dedicated care to cater for different needs.

People make Emmy, and their involvement is the key to matching the appropriate care needs and facilities for seniors of our community. Emmy Monash provides expert and customised care across every part of the resident journey, with professionally trained clinical care and lifestyle staff who offer respectful, best practice care for all our residents.

We encourage families to work in partnership with our staff so we can design appropriate individualised care and offer personalised programs to enrich the lives of every resident. When transition from one level of care to another is undertaken, we ensure the move is seamless.

The change may be from Emmy Monash Apartments independent living to Low or High Dependency, or from Low Dependency to the Smorgon Unit. Alternatively, it may involve a much-needed Respite placement from home or hospital. Whatever the transition, Emmy’s professional staff are here to guide families through the process hand in hand, including a Social Counsellor who is on staff to assist loved ones.

The opening of Gandel House at Emmy Monash in mid-2016 will offer a greater scope of choice in residential accommodation with related care options. All will benefit from Emmy’s focus on individual needs, positive ageing programs and a valued, trusted partnership with family members. We encourage you to find out first-hand about choices available in residential aged care and learn more about the benefits of life at Emmy.

For Admissions or Respite Information contact Shelly Katz, Placement Services Coordinator, on 03 8508 9300.

Chanukah Celebrated at Emmy

Abe and Hetty Seigel with Lynette and Peter Cherny.

Helen Light AM and her mother-in-law Helen Light.

Joe Krampel and Tanya Abramzon. Vera Freidin with grand-daughter Lisa Krugger.

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ELDERCARE ASIA PACIFIC 2O16 AWARD FINALISTEmmy Monash has been shortlisted as a finalist in the ‘Best Active Ageing Program’ category in the 2016 Asia Pacific Eldercare Innovation Awards.

Our Bridging the Gap inter-generational program with Year 9 students from Mount Scopus College, was recognised as a leading positive ageing program which encourages reciprocal learning, enhances holistic wellness, breaks down negative stereotypes of ageing and promotes positive collaborative energy.

The program is coordinated by Maureen Shulsinger, Emmy Monash Community

and Volunteer Liaison Manager and Ittay Flescher, Community Service Coordinator at Mount Scopus College. Judy Fetter, Donor Relations Manager and Maureen Shulsinger prepared the detailed submission outlining the objectives, development and outcomes of the program.

Tanya Abramzon received confirmation in late February of the shortlisting from the Ageing Asia judging committee based in Singapore. Only five countries applications were shortlisted in this category from over 100 nominations. This follows Emmy’s success in 2015 being a finalist in the ‘Best Dementia Care Program’ for Art and Memory Through The Senses.

A final announcement regarding the winner of this category will be made at the Ageing Asia Innovation Forum in

Singapore on 27th April 2016. Emmy Monash is competing with finalists from China, Singapore and Australia and is extremely proud to be considered for this prestigious award.

To see the Bridging The Gap film clip included in the submission, visit www.emmymonash.asn.au Asia Pacific Award Finalist 2016.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING REVIEWING 2O14/2O15 The 2015 AGM was held in November and strongly attended by residents, their families and management. Tanya Abramzon CEO, Joe Krampel President, and Mark Hammerschlag Treasurer, all delivered their annual addresses to a full house of residents and family members.

They thanked the dedication of staff, family members, supporters and volunteers for working together for common goals and achieving huge strides in the delivery of care, programs and building developments during the 2014/2015 year.

Rosemary Korngold was honoured at the AGM for her longstanding service as Emmy Monash Board Secretary. Although Rosemary is retiring from that role, she will continue her two-decade strong service as a valued volunteer. A life membership was awarded to long standing Board member George Greenberg.

The Annual Report can be accessed on the Emmy website, www.emmymonash.asn.au News and Events/Publications/Annual Reports 2014/2015.

& FIDDLER ON THE ROOF Club L’Chaim participants were delighted to attend the acclaimed musical, Fiddler on The Roof in February. The production continues to delight audiences and all members thoroughly enjoyed the musical and ease of private bus travel to and from the theatre.

Club L’Chaim provides independent seniors the opportunity to socialise and connect through organised events during the year.

For further information about upcoming events contact Shirley Jacobs on 03 8508 9300.

Joe Krampel, Rosemary Korngold and Tanya Abramzon. George Greenberg and Joe Krampel.

Residents and Mount Scopus students enjoying chair yoga.

Sally Felzen, Fay Wiener and Sonja Cowan.

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TU B’SHVAT FESTIVAL The festival of Tu B’Shvat was celebrated at Emmy Monash in late January with residents joining together with Rabbi Morgan, who explained the origins of this festival. He spoke of Tu B’Shvat’s strong connection with the environment and the importance of preserving the world for future generations. He also explained the tradition of honouring the seven foods of ancient Israel, including wheat, barley, olives, figs, dates, grapes and pomegranates.

Fitting with the festival symbolism of growth and renewal, youth volunteers Abby and Ben Aizenstros planted a pomelo tree, a gesture thoughtfully arranged by Emmy resident and avid horticulturalist, Josef Rewinson. In the spirit of Tu B’Shvat, residents drank grape juice and enjoyed an afternoon tea which included the special foods of the festival.

BAR MITZVAHS SHARED WITH EMMYEmmy Monash was thrilled to host two Bar Mitzvahs during 2015 in the Goldschlager Family Synagogue, with a third scheduled for March 2016. Ilan and Arieh Rathner, sons of Pushpa and Yossi Rathner, grandsons of Eva Rathner and the late Kurt Rathner OAM, chose to celebrate their Bar Mitzvah at Emmy last September to share the simcha with their extended family and Emmy residents.

Menachem Mendel, son of Rabbi Michoel and Rebbetzin Urit Sheina Stern, also shared his celebration with residents in October. Menachem Mendel has been joining his father on Shabbat at Emmy since he was three years old. With grandparents living in the USA, the Emmy residents have become his adoptive grandparents.

Marley Israel, son of Jeff and Rachel, is a regular attendee at our Goldschlager Family Synagogue services and a dedicated youth volunteer at Emmy who has chosen to celebrate his bar mitzvah with our residents in March, 2016.

Yossi Rathner with sons, Ilan and Arieh.

Josef Rewinson and Rabbi Fred Morgan.

Marley Israel volunteering with Elaine Cohney. The Stern family.Rabbi Michoel Stern and his son, Menachem Mendel.

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Pesach Edition 2016

OCT 2O14 DEC 2O14 FEB 2O15 MAY 2O15

JUL 2O15 SEP 2O15 JAN 2O16 FEB 2O16

REVERIE HARP & THE GIFT OF GIVINGSpreading the magic of music to Emmy residents has been a focused passion for Floris Kalman and her family.

In particular, bringing individual and enriching musical experiences to High Dependency Emmy residents has brought great meaning to Mrs Kalman. The family’s kind donation to the Life Enrichment Music Program has enabled the purchase of a beautiful Reverie Harp to continue this work. This instrument offers our residents much tranquility, relaxation and pleasure.

emMYprogress

Pamela Bruder, Lifestyle/Life Enrichment Coordinator, Martha Sanders and Floris Kalman.

EMMY CARDS & CERTIFICATESIf you have a birthday approaching or special Simcha, why not share your celebration with Emmy?

Donations to Emmy in lieu of presents or flowers are meaningful gifts that provide valuable assistance to our residents and programs. We have newly designed certificates and cards that can be customised for the occasion and personally inscribed to include your special message. If you are a guest at a Seder this year, why not consider a stylised card?

To discuss your requirements, please contact Development at Emmy on 03 8508 9300.

Title:

First Name:

Surname:

Address:

Postcode:

Day Phone:

I/we would like to make a donation of $

Please find a cheque attached (made payable to Emmy Monash Aged Care)

Or, please debit my credit card: VISA Mastercard

Name on Card:

Expiry: /

Signature:

All donations over $2 are tax deductible.

Mail to: Emmy Monash Aged Care Inc., 518–526 Dandenong Road, Caulfield North VIC 3161 Fax to: (03) 9509 6176

Donations can be made securely online via our website www.emmymonash.asn.au

Yes, I would like to support Emmy Monash Aged Care

ETMAR16