‘The Epitome of New York Strong’

Activities Director Jackie Lebau of the 80th Street Residence has received the 2020 All-Star Staff Award from the Empire State Association of Assisted Living. The award is given to those in the assisted living community who often accomplish the seemingly impossible or are there when they are needed the most. Each of the 11 winners is employed by ESAAL member communities across New York State, chosen by the heads of over 300 assisted living communities that employ tens of thousands of New Yorkers.

“When New York City came to be known as the epicenter of the coronavirus pandemic in March, Jackie went above and beyond to keep her residents engaged in meaningful activities to keep them connected to the New York City they had always loved,” said Wayne Kaplan, co-owner of the 80th Street Residence. “She worked with vendors to transform beloved programs into virtual events, she arranged virtual tours of New York City museums, weekly music therapy sessions, sing-a-longs and live chamber music concerts. Jackie also tapped into favorite yoga instructors to arrange ongoing virtual classes and set up a Sweet Readers program for avid community book lovers.”

Added Lindsey Harbison, assistant executive director of the 80th Street Residence: “Jackie is just a treasure. She always maintains a positive attitude which in turn creates a positive atmosphere for all. We are lucky to have her on our team, and the residents love her. She is the epitome of New York Strong.”