Milwaukee, Wis. (March. 16, 2021) –To bridge the generation gap and inspire positive change, Ovation Communities has organized a new teen led organizational board. The newly formed board, called Teen Ovation, is designed to teach leadership and career skills, while fostering relationships with other teens and with seniors.
Through the Jewish Home and Care Center Foundation, the up to 20-member teen board will participate in discussions and activities to hone their leadership skills. Teens of all faiths and backgrounds ranging in age from 13 to 19 are eligible to apply.
“We are very excited about getting younger people involved in the decision-making process,” said Julie Shlensky, Posner Chair for Intergenerational Programming. “We are encouraging all teens in the community to apply and serve on this board. We want to give everyone an opportunity to have their voices heard.”
Working directly with the Ovation Communities Resident Advisory Committee, the teens will organize programs, get involved in fundraising and take a leadership role within the organization.
“This is a wonderful opportunity to get to know our residents and gain real world experiences while bettering our community,” Shlensky said. “There is so much we can learn about life by just being around them.”
Operating under the guidance of Shlensky, the Teen Ovation board will learn a variety of the day-to-day operations of senior living facilities. From sensitivity training and ageism, to career building and fundraising, the teens will participate in seminars that will give them the skills and expertise needed to complete multiple projects, including the planning, organization and running of a fundraiser.
“One of our objectives is to help guide these teens into leadership roles while bettering themselves and their community,” Shlensky said. “Whether they are interested in a career within healthcare, senior living communities, or business and finance, this board will help give them the guidance and direction they need to be successful.”
The first Teen Ovation board meeting will take place in April. To apply and learn more about Teen Ovation please visit https://ovation.org/foundation/teenovation. The deadline to apply for admission into the program is Monday, April 5.
About Ovation Communities
Founded in 1906, Ovation Communities is a Jewish faith-based organization, and offers a full continuum of senior living and care options, from independent apartments to rehabilitation and skilled nursing services. Comprised of two locations – Ovation Jewish Home and Ovation Chai Point – Ovation Communities provides outstanding care and vibrant living environments intended to celebrate independent lifestyles. Ovation Communities welcomes residents of all faiths. For more information visit www.ovation.org.
