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<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!

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