[Photo: L-R: Barry Berman, Chelsea Jewish Lifecare CEO; Susan Ryan, Center for Innovation CEO; Betsy Mullen, Chelsea Jewish Lifecare COO]

At the Center for Innovation’s (CFI) annual conference, sponsored by the Green House® Project and Pioneer Network communities, Chelsea Jewish Lifecare CEO Barry Berman and COO Betsy Mullen were presented with the esteemed “2024 Changemaker Award,” which reflects their strong leadership style as well as their passion for serving others.

Each year CFI honors leaders who have made indelible contributions to the field of eldercare improvement with the “Changemaker Award.” This annual award recognizes the champions of culture change who have paved the way for more dignified and empowering models of care and support, setting bold new standards for older adults and people living with disabilities.

“Barry Berman and Betsy Mullen embody the spirit of bold and uncompromising change, refusing to accept the status quo and working diligently to provide the highest quality of life for people regardless of their physical and cognitive changes.,’ said Alex Spanko, Director of Communications and Marketing at the Center for Innovation. “They are shining examples of how strong leadership and a passion for serving others can overcome any obstacle on the road to true culture.”

The CFI annual conference, held this year in Grand Rapids, Michigan, focused upon a “Grow Bolder” theme. Barry and Betsy also gave a 90 minute presentation about life enrichment and the quality of life at the Leonard Florence Center for Living. Their presentation revolved around the unique Outward Bound program, which enables ventilator dependent, ALS and MS residents to experience and enjoy life by participating in activities outside of skilled nursing home environment.

The CFI staff put together a wonderful video to pay tribute to these two inspiring individuals. There were photos spanning many important milestones in CJL’s long and impressive history.

Congratulations Mr. Berman and Mrs. Mullen. We are so very proud of you both!