BY LORI SOLOMON / JULY 30, 2025
I am honored to assume the position of President of the Board of Trustees of JSDD. To say I have a very hard act to follow is an understatement. Larry Rein has been an extraordinary president. His thoughtfulness, the way he gives of himself and his commitment to the entire Jewish community are things we should all emulate. I have learned so much from him and I have enjoyed every moment of working with him. We look forward to honoring and celebrating him in October.
Ever since I was asked to assume this position a few months ago, I have been thinking a lot about becoming president of an organization that means so much to me and my family. I am excited and energized to take on this role.
JSDD is an outstanding agency. As with any great organization, it is important to look for ways to improve and to take things to the next level. As we move ahead, the three areas we will focus on are maintain, grow, and evolve.
The dynamic nature of the WAE Center and our therapeutic services are the envy of all. When I tell people that our daughter Hannah attends the WAE Center the immediate response is “that’s the best day program”. And it is. The focus will be on continuing to maintain the outstanding program it is while encouraging creativity and growth. WAE will adapt and evolve through the input of both members and staff.
The same holds true for residential services. The agency is committed to continuing to provide top of the line support to the residents living in homes and apartments. This is an exciting time with multiple opportunities for residential growth and development. There is an unmet need and JSDD plans to add units to expand the number of residents served.
An assessment of the current housing stock is important. Many current residents have lived in their JSDD home for decades and their needs have changed as they have aged. JSDD is about to launch a capital campaign for the development of homes to house the current aging population so that they can continue to be served by JSDD in a home that meets their ever changing needs. These residents are an integral part of the JSDD family and it is incumbent upon the agency to ensure they will live the rest of their lives safely and securely with JSDD. In moving forward, the Board’s strategic plan needs to be updated to reflect the new focus on this residential growth and development.
JSDD’s newest program, Life Home Tech, has garnered substantial attention and praise. This highly innovative one of a kind program will continue to evolve and serve a wider population beyond our community.
The Heidi Gallery has been a huge success. The exhibits and programs have drawn large crowds and lots of buzz throughout the Metrowest community and beyond. The Heidi Gallery will continue to develop, curate and host creative and innovative exhibits and programs which will uplift the community at large.
In order to keep all of this going we need to focus on the finances. As anyone who reads or listens to the news is aware, there are devastating cuts to Medicaid in the recently passed budget that could directly impact the agency and those we serve. The agency must be laser focused on increasing fundraising actives and growing the endowment to ensure the short and long term viability of JSDD.
We can only do all of the above with our outstanding JSDD board. The board is engaged, creative and committed. Board members care deeply about the agency, those we serve and also about one another.
Finally, to accomplish all of this it takes an outstanding team comprised of the best of administration and staff. Linda Press’ commitment, passion and skills are the reason JSDD is where we are today.
The administrative team and the direct support personnel are phenomenal. Spend five minutes with anyone on the administrative team and it will be apparent how incredible they are. Their knowledge, passion, and commitment to the agency and those we serve is unmatched.
Last but by no means least, are the direct support personnel (DSP’s). These unsung heroes provide the highest quality support to our residents and members. We are so fortunate to have all of them bringing their skills and passion to JSDD each and every day.
The future of JSDD is brighter than ever. It is a future filled with continuing our unparalleled programs and embracing new opportunities. I look forward working with the Board, staff, WAE Center members, residents and community members to propel JSDD to even greater heights.