The residents of Grace Plaza and the children of Clasp Day Care Center held their annual holiday celebration on Dec. 15. The children arrived and presented their adopted grandmothers and grandfathers with the beautiful centerpieces they made for the holiday tables, as well as a special holiday sign. They shared snacks and conversation, and the children delighted the residents with songs. Each child then received a special present from the residents.
Clasp Day Care Center and Grace Plaza have shared this special relationship for more than 20 years. The children, who range in age from 3 to 4, make weekly visits to their friends at Grace Plaza. It’s a rewarding program for all and gives everyone a weekly treat. The staff of both organizations work together to make it a meaningful and rewarding experience and look forward to another 20 years of sharing.
Grace Plaza Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Great Neck welcomed several new staff members. Kim Sodano, LNHA, LCSW, is a new administator; Debra Fenner is the new director of Admissions; and Keisha Johnson is the new director of Food & Nutritional Services.
Prior to her employment at Grace Plaza, Sodano was the administrator of Brookhaven Rehabilitation and Health Care Center. She received her master’s degree in social work from Adelphi University and brings years of experience as a clinical social worker. Sodano is excited to oversee daily operations, hoping to improve care and quality of life for the residents.
Fenner comes to Grace Plaza with an extensive background and experience in admissions, having worked for more than 20 years as admissions coordinator at Nassau Extended Care in Hempstead. Fenner will oversee the daily operations of the Admissions Department at Grace Plaza. She resides in Uniondale with her husband and three children.
Johnson comes to Grace Plaza with an extensive background and experience in food services. Prior to Grace Plaza, she worked as dietary supervisor at Avalon Gardens in Smithtown as well as the restaurant manager for Denny’s in Centereach. Johnson will oversee the daily operations of the Food & Nutritional Services Department. She resides in Wheatley Heights with her son, Christian.
Grace Plaza is currently seeking compassionate individuals willing to volunteer their time. There are many opportunities available, such as assisting with resident recreational programs and transporting or visiting with patients. Interested individuals must be at least 13 years old.
Grace Plaza Nursing & Rehabilitation Center was established in 1972 as a 214-bed short- and long-term skilled nursing and rehabilitation center in Great Neck. Grace Plaza offers expert care in the field of subacute rehabilitation, including geriatric care, rehabilitative care, respiratory therapy and medically complex care. For more information, visit www.graceplaza.com or call 516-466-3001; those interested in volunteering should ask for ext. 219.
