Happy October! As the autumn season settles in, we have several important updates to share with you regarding our community’s growth and progress. Over the past quarter, we’ve embraced exciting changes while continuing to prioritize the comfort and well-being of our residents and team members.
With some of our long-serving department heads retiring, we’ve initiated new partnerships to ensure continued excellence in our operations. We want to make it absolutely clear that Light of Hearts Villa has not been sold, and we are not under new ownership. We remain the same loving community you’ve always known. These changes reflect our decision to outsource two departments to specialized companies that will enhance our efficiency and benefit us financially in the long run.
First, our maintenance department has transitioned to working with Brewer Garrett, a facility management company. This partnership, done in collaboration with our sister ministry at Regina Health Center and through the Sisters of Charity Health System, will streamline our facility operations. While residents and team members won’t notice significant changes in day-to-day maintenance, this move ensures that processes run more efficiently.
In addition to this change, we are pleased to announce that maintenance team member Scot has transitioned to our Life Enrichment team to be more hands-on with residents. His warm presence will bring even more joy to our community as he engages with residents in meaningful activities. Scot will also be available on Tuesdays and Thursdays to drive residents to their appointments, providing continuity and support in their daily routines.
We are also excited to announce changes within our dietary services following Chef Ray’s retirement. We’ve partnered with Metz, a highly regarded food service company, to take over our dining operations. Just like with maintenance, this is a joint venture with Regina Health Center and will allow us to offer more variety, healthier options, and a seamless dining experience for our residents. While change can sometimes be challenging, we believe this shift will enhance the food experience here at Light of Hearts Villa, and we’re eager for residents to enjoy all that Metz has to offer.
On September 27, we celebrated our 35th anniversary with our Light the Way Gala, and we are overjoyed by its success. Thanks to your generosity, we raised over $205,000 to support our residents and an additional $10,000 for the Vincentian Pathways restoration project. This event was filled with love and gratitude as we honored Sisters Regina Kusnir and Helen Scasny for their remarkable contributions to our community. A special thanks to all who attended, donated, and helped make this night so memorable. We truly couldn’t have done it without you. Read the full recap here >
We are excited to announce that our annual Flea Market is just around the corner! Mark your calendars for October 25 from 9 AM to 6 PM and October 26 from 8 AM to 2 PM. The proceeds will benefit the Sister Helen T. Scasny, SC Benevolent Fund, which helps residents who have outlived their financial resources. Whether you’re looking for unique treasures or just want to support a good cause, we invite everyone to join us for this fun event.
As we enter the colder months, we’re keeping a close watch on the health of our community. Flu vaccines will be available for residents and team members who wish to receive them, though we are not able to offer COVID-19 vaccines at this time. With the seasonal uptick in virus cases, we are prepared to reinstate mandatory mask-wearing should it become necessary to ensure everyone’s safety. We will keep you informed of any policy updates as we navigate this season together.
Thank you for your ongoing support, love, and involvement with Light of Hearts Villa. As we continue to grow and evolve, your dedication to our mission allows us to provide exceptional care to those who call this place home.
Wishing you a wonderful October and a happy fall season.
Breanne Cavileer, LNHA, CDP
Executive Director
Sister Regina Kusnir, SC, has lived a life of extraordinary charity and has been an integral part of Light of Hearts Villa. She helped coordinate the transition of Lumen Cordium High School into an assisted living facility in 1989. Since 2005, she has served as the director of pastoral and special ministries, where she helps address the spiritual life of residents.
Thanks to your incredible support, we raised $114,060 during this year’s #weGiveCatholic campaign! Your generosity is helping us continue our mission and make a lasting impact in the lives of our residents. Thank you!
Over $215,000 was raised last week to help support the residents and community of Light of Hearts Villa, a Bedford-based nonprofit senior living facility, celebrating its milestone 35th anniversary at the Light the Way Gala. The event brought together 350 guests on September 27 to support of the Villa’s highly regarded, faith-based, compassionate care provided for older adults.
