On December 6, 2017, Michele Roche, Activities Supervisor at Peace Care St. Joseph’s, was recognized with an Excellence in Care award by LeadingAge New Jersey.  The breakfast and awards presentation was held at Forsgate Country Club in Monroe Township. This award recognizes individuals who demonstrate extraordinary talent, expertise, and dedication in provision of exceptional service to residents.

Michele has been an employee of the Activities Department for the past 12 years and brings her many talents along with dedication to her job.  An incredibly creative person, Michele conceives of many of the arts and crafts projects enjoyed by the residents, as well as the recipes used for resident baking activities.  She is focused on organizing engaging and fun outings such as trips to restaurants or for shopping, visits to Liberty State Park, and most recently, the St. Joseph’s Parish Festival.  Michele acts as facilitator of Peace Care St. Joseph’s Resident Council; a regular gathering of residents to express concerns and feedback and to brainstorm ideas about bettering the Center.

Michele also offers her creative talents to the Center in general.  She fastidiously decorates the Center for seasons and holidays.  Michele creates an inviting and fun environment in the common areas as an extension of the residents’ homes.  She leads the way as a member of the Employees’ Activity Committee by coordinating contests and events, as well as fashioning beautiful gift baskets.  Michele extends herself by participating in the Center’s community events including visits by the Jersey City Rotary Club and other organizations, holiday celebrations, fundraisers and pretty much everything asked of her.

In assistance to the community and youth, Michele supervises students from Christ the King Preparatory School.  These young people serve local non-profits to assist the organizations and to get real world workplace experience.  She works with the students to determine what areas of the Center they want to work in; for instance, our current student is interested in learning more about maintenance and facilities.  The previous student served within the activities department to provide one-on-one care to the residents.  This program is very important for the students involved so they have a meaningful and practical experience.

About LeadingAge New Jersey:  The statewide association of not-for-profit senior care organizations is dedicated to advancing quality aging services in New Jersey through advocacy, education, and fellowship. Founded in 1931, LeadingAge New Jersey and its members believe in affirming the enduring value of our elders to society, to family and to the community; promoting quality, stewardship and choice in aging services; advancing mission driven values, compassionate services and public trust; being accountable to those we serve; and developing ethical leadership.

LeadingAge New Jersey represents not-for-profit nursing homes, assisted living residences, residential health care centers, independent senior housing and continuing care retirement communities throughout the entire state of New Jersey. LeadingAge New Jersey serves over 140 member communities, many of which are supported through religious, fraternal and governmental sponsorship. In support of its mission, LeadingAge New Jersey encourages collaboration with businesses, communities, state and local government, and other public and private entities also committed to enhancing quality of life for the senior citizens of New Jersey.