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For nearly 20 years, Hangnga Vu, MD, has been a source of vital care and comfort for residents at Los Angeles Jewish Health (LAJH). They rely on her profound knowledge and skill to help them meet critical daily health challenges—and, over the course of two decades, she has come to rely on them for the abundant grace and wisdom they offer.Recently, after recovering from a minor virus that triggered a bout of vertigo, Dr. Vu realized just how powerful that grace and wisdom could be.“After getting better from being sick, I was back at work and participating in an event celebrating LAJH’s Staff Appreciation Week. My colleagues and I were dancing a little, which must have caused my vertigo to resurface,” she says. “Later that day, I was meeting with a resident when I lost my balance and tipped over a glass of water that had been sitting on my desk. The liquid spilled everywhere.”Dr. Vu was initially uncomfortable in her moment of vulnerability in front of a resident—until the resident demonstrated the kind of compassion and understanding that often comes with age.“He said, ‘You did well, Dr. Vu. You handled that nicely,’” she recalls. “In that moment, I knew he was caring for me as much as I was caring for him. I was also incredibly grateful to my medical assistant, who treated me with such gentleness and respect.”As Dr. Vu sees it, the reciprocal relationship between providers and patients is just one of the many things that makes LAJH special.“I’ve worked for other healthcare organizations, and I can tell you that you usually get 15 minutes with a patient, and that’s it,” she says. “LAJH is different: Even though we know cost-effectiveness and efficiency are important, we place even more emphasis on quality care and love. Our productivity is measured by the wonderful care we provide and by how happy our residents are to be here.”Inspired by her experience, Dr. Vu wrote a poem that was published this fall in the newsletter of the Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medical (PALTmed) Association. It is our privilege and pleasure to share it with Connections readers today.Hangnga Vu, MDMessy Grace: A Flood of Careby Hangnga Vu, MDToday at work, we had Appreciation Lunch — music, food, dancing… I joined in for a few steps, playing along like I had rhythm.Just a few steps — and the stars spun above me under the hot California sun.In the middle of clinic — while talking, while examining — I knocked over a full cup of water across the desk, drenched the papers, flooded the floor…My head spun. My heart, too.The patient sat there — not upset at all — watching me as if witnessing a gentle… summer flood.My medical assistant, remained calm. No sighs, no scolding. She simply smiled — and began mopping the floor, as if picking up the day, piece by piece.The patient looked at me and said: “You did well, Dr. You handled it nicely.”I laughed, a little stunned Because yes… I had just received a performance review on flood management.And just like that — doctor and patient set the stethoscope aside, and shared a moment simply… human. The assistant turned to me and said:“Dr, you should sit down. I don’t want you to fall. I can do it easily.”Then she held my hand. One hand cleaned, the other — and her heart — steadied me.At that moment, I knew I was being cared for. Not because I was flawless — but because I was surrounded by people kind enough to lift me even when I was messy.I told them, honestly:“In that moment, I was just… myself. No filters. And still — gently held.”Today was Staff Appreciation Week. But I believe — I was the one most deeply appreciated.I have some nice photos: with another medical assistant, with a few lovely patients. But none with this patient, the one who shared the messiest part of my day.And maybe that’s the point:The deepest kindness often needs no proof. Just a quiet presence — and a floor gently wiped. Thank you, B. Thank you, TP. Thank you to those who didn’t appear in any photos today, but left a print… right in my heart. 

Once again, Los Angeles Jewish Health received prestigious recognition from U.S. News & World Report, ranking as one of its “Best Nursing Homes of 2026.” Based on the publication’s analysis of almost 15,000 nursing homes nationwide, which evaluated data about staffing, quality of care, and health and safety inspections, LAJH earned accolades for multiple skilled nursing facilities.Both the Joyce Eisenberg-Keefer Medical Center and the Mark Taper Building were awarded the highest possible rating—“high performing”—in acknowledgment of the extraordinary service they provide.“This distinction affirms the core values that have guided us for more than a century,” says LAJH CEO and President Dale Surowitz. “We’re grateful that the compassionate, high-quality care our staff provides is being recognized nationally. It highlights our role not only as a leader in Los Angeles, but as an example of excellence and innovation in senior care across the country.”Ilana Springer, LAJH’s senior vice president of in-residence services, notes that the U.S. News ranking is a testament to LAJH’s passionate focus on its vital mission.“We are honored by this recognition, which reflects our emphasis on providing quality care and our consistent and intentional work to continue improving outcomes, while maintaining our caring environment,” she says.One of the challenges for any skilled nursing facility is staying abreast of the industry’s constantly changing standards and regulations—a challenge LAJH meets through collaborative partnerships among its dedicated staff.“Our team members, who are genuinely committed to serving our residents with compassion and respect, make achievements like this possible,” says Charlette Ofrecio, administrator of the Mark Taper Building. “We take pride in being trusted healthcare providers for those who need us most, and we continually strive to exceed the usual standards of care.”The Joyce Eisenberg-Keefer Medical CenterThe Mark Taper Building 

In his role as a staff member of the Activities Department at Los Angeles Jewish Health’s Brandman Centers for Senior Care (BCSC) PACE program, Sergio Anleu has seen firsthand how the program helps its participants thrive. But it wasn’t until his own mother enrolled that he realized how truly transformative BCSC PACE could be.“In 2022, when my mom, Fabiola, was barely 60, she was diagnosed with congestive heart failure,” Sergio says. “She worked as a nanny and was incredibly dedicated to her job, so even though she was having trouble breathing, she didn’t want to take time off to go to the hospital. Fortunately, a friend convinced her; the doctor said that if she had waited one more day, she would have collapsed and died.”For Fabiola, the diagnosis meant a radical lifestyle change. Even with the implantation of a defibrillation device, her heart would be too weak for her to continue working. She would have to retire immediately and dedicate her time and energy to keeping her body as strong as possible.“My entire world shifted overnight: On a Wednesday, I went to work; by Thursday, I learned I’d never be able to work again. I felt psychologically destroyed,” Fabiola recalls.Sergio and his two brothers were beside themselves with worry. Not only was their beloved mother facing an existential health crisis, but she would also require a level of daily support that the three siblings, who all worked full-time themselves, could not provide.“I had worked for LAJH for a number of years, but I was relatively new at BCSC PACE and wasn’t sure whether my mom would be eligible,” Sergio says. “When I found out she qualified, I was so relieved.”PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) is a health plan for those 55 and older who want to continue living at home, providing them with vibrant activity centers and dedicated care teams to help them stay healthy, active, and socially engaged.As Fabiola sees it, the care she receives has been nothing short of life-changing.Fabiola and Sergio Anleu“It’s hard to describe how amazing BCSC PACE is,” Fabiola says. “They give me meals and provide my medication, which gets sent directly to my house. They host activities like bingo, arts and crafts, Zumba and music therapy. They take me to the psychologist, where I receive counseling. They make sure I see my cardiologist every three-to-six months. We have outings to go shopping. If I’m not feeling well, they come pick me up so I can get to the doctor right away. And I’ve made friends! It’s all such a blessing.”BCSC PACE also gave Fabiola an emergency call device she can press if she falls when she is home alone, and the staff gets in touch immediately to make sure she is okay.“The support BCSC PACE offers is a game-changer; it gives my brothers and me a sense of security and peace of mind knowing Mom is so well-cared-for,” Sergio says.Three years into her participation in the program, Fabiola says she feels like a different person.“When I was diagnosed, I felt like the world had ended. But BCSC PACE has given me life again, lifting me out of my depression and surrounding me with such beautiful treatment and care,” she says. “I still have physical limitations, but now I have the desire to go on, to spend time with all the friends I’ve made here and enjoy all the things I can do.”Sergio has become accustomed to hearing these types of stories from other BCSC PACE participants and their families, but now they hit home in a different way.“My brothers and I consider ourselves so fortunate to be part of the BCSC PACE community,” he says. “My mom is the person who keeps us close, and without BCSC PACE helping her, I don’t know where our family would be. We are forever grateful.”Fabiola taking part in arts and craftsFabiola joined 11 other women who celebrated their Golden Quinceañera at BCSC PACESergio joins Fabiola for excercise class at BCSC PACE in ResedaHaving fun and making music at BCSC PACEThe Anleu family

Each year, Chanukah invites us to look back at the courage of the Maccabees, a small band that fought not only for survival, but for the right to live openly and proudly as Jews. Their story reminds us that Jewish pride is not loud or boastful; it is steady, resilient, and deeply rooted in identity and purpose. In every generation, Chanukah lifts that message like a flame, and this year at Los Angeles Jewish Health, that flame of pride glowed especially bright.So many of our residents grew up in times and places where Jewish identity was something to be quiet about or carefully held inside. Not only in countries in a state of danger or upheaval, but even in American cities, in neighborhoods, clubs, parks, and workplaces, where subtle messages made it clear that being Jewish was something to soften or conceal. And yet, they persevered. They built families, communities, and lives of meaning, carrying their Judaism forward with quiet strength.Here, at LAJH, no one needs to tuck that part of themselves away. Being Jewish is safe. Indeed, here pride is not resisted; it is cherished. Our residents gather to celebrate, sing, study, light candles, and tell stories not only of the past, but of the journeys that brought them to this community. They are surrounded by peers, caregivers, and friends who honor their heritage and uplift who they are. The joy of Chanukah becomes not only a memory of courage but a living experience of belonging. The plethora of celebratory foods, entertainment, and spiritual celebration serves to enhance it all.And beyond our own story, Chanukah offers an ethical calling: just as we affirm the dignity of Jewish identity, we affirm the dignity of every person. The Chanukah lights teach that every individual should have the right to be themselves. Every human being should enjoy the freedom to live authentically, to feel proud of who they are, and to shine in the fullness of their own unique light. Images of Chanukah from across Los Angeles Jewish Health:

We truly value our employees and are committed to their success! We offer long-term employment opportunities with job stability, as well as support and encouragement for career growth and advancement. Our comprehensive benefits package includes Health, Dental, and Vision insurance, Paid Time Off, 9 Paid Holidays, a 403(b) Retirement Plan with company matching, and company-paid Life Insurance. Join our team and experience a workplace culture that fosters teamwork, growth, and support!Los Angeles Jewish Health has been a trusted provider of senior healthcare for over 100 years, offering a wide range of services that prioritize excellence and Jewish values. We serve more than 4,000 seniors across our San Fernando Valley campuses, delivering personalized care tailored to each individual’s needs, from independent living to specialized healthcare programs.The responsibilities of the Campaign Coordinator include, but are not limited to:Responsibilities:Assist in planning, coordination, and execution of capital and annual campaign activities.Maintain campaign timelines, tracking systems, and task lists to ensure milestones are met.Support donor recognition and stewardship efforts, including acknowledgements, reports, and events.Prepare campaign-related materials, proposals, and presentations for major donor meetings.Manage campaign database entries and ensure accurate donor and prospect information.Provide direct administrative support to the Senior Vice President, including scheduling, calendar management, travel arrangements, and meeting preparation.Draft, proofread, and format correspondence, reports and presentations.Coordinate internal and external meetings, ensuring materials and logistics are prepared.Serve as a key liaison between the SVP, internal leadership, donors, and external partners.Help monitor campaign budgets and expenses, preparing reconciliations as needed.Support gift processing, pledge tracking, and reporting in collaboration with Development Services.Education and Skills:Bachelor's degree required, focus in nonprofit management, business, or r elated field preferred.3-5 years of administrative or development exprience, preferably in a nonprofit or philanthropic environment.Strong organizational, project management, and multitasking skills.Excellent written and verbal communication skills.High proficiency with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint); experience with donor databases (Raiser's Edge, Salesforce, or similar) a plus.Discretion, professionalism, and the ability to handle confidential information.Collaborative teanm player with the ability to work independently.Join Los Angeles Jewish Health and make a meaningful impact in the lives of seniors in our community. Become part of our compassionate team, dedicated to providing exceptional care and support. Apply today and start making a difference!

We truly value our employees and are committed to their success! We offer long-term employment opportunities with job stability, as well as support and encouragement for career growth and advancement. Our comprehensive benefits package includes Health, Dental, and Vision insurance, Paid Time Off, 9 Paid Holidays, a 403(b) Retirement Plan with company matching, and company-paid Life Insurance. Join our team and experience a workplace culture that fosters teamwork, growth, and support!Los Angeles Jewish Health has been a trusted provider of senior healthcare for over 100 years, offering a wide range of services that prioritize excellence and Jewish values. We serve more than 4,000 seniors across our San Fernando Valley campuses, delivering personalized care tailored to each individual’s needs, from independent living to specialized healthcare programs.The Auerbach Geriatric Psychiatry Unit at LAJH is a leading facility for short-term psychiatric care, offering compassionate, specialized treatment tailored to the unique needs of seniors through a nationally-acclaimed model of high-quality care.The responsibilities of the RN include, but are not limited to: Responsibilities:As assigned, assume the administrative authority, responsibility, and accountability of performing the role and responsibilities of the RN Charge Nurse.Review the daily assignment schedule to ensure each staff member and position is on duty, assigned to appropriate work assignments, and scheduled duty hours. Also, review the supervisory staff assigned for each shift, and check all call-ins for the shift and succeeding shifts. Replace absent personnel in accordance with the department’s staffing policy.Complete CPI certification upon hire and annually thereafter.Ensure a comprehensive assessment is completed upon admission, every 12 hours, and whenever there is a change in behavior, including but not limited to assessing suicidal ideation and homicidal ideation.Ensure that documentation is complete in the medical record, including but not limited to: shift charting, patient/family teaching, individual and group attendances, and MD orders.Communicate with the covering provider and staff regarding changes in patient condition, problems, or clinical concerns. Share necessary information with unit staff.Involve the patient in identifying and effectively utilizing coping skills to maintain safety and improve overall mental and physical well-being.Receive reports from RNs on the prior shift, including changes in condition, scheduled discharges, pending intakes, pending laboratory orders, and safety concerns.Audit and monitor patient reactions to treatment and ensure appropriate documentation of the patient’s condition.Initiate the Patient Care Plans for all assigned patients. Each shift, and as warranted by changes in the patient’s condition, ensure that all care plans are current and reflect individualized patient needs and goals.Observe nursing and therapy personnel to ensure established safety procedures are followed in the use of equipment and supplies.Perform other related duties as needed to meet the needs of the organization and patients.Ability to work a 7 p.m. – 7 a.m. shift.Education and Experience:Must possess a current license to practice as a Registered Nurse (RN) within the State of California.Experience as a registered nurse (RN) in an acute care, long-term care, or psychiatric facility for a minimum of six (6) months is preferred.A minimum of two (2) years of supervisory experience in psychiatric care is preferred.Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.Assaultive Behavior Training, CPI (Crisis Prevention Institute) certification required upon (3) months of hire.Los Angeles County LPS Authorization required within nine (9) months of hire.Join Los Angeles Jewish Health and make a meaningful impact in the lives of seniors in our community. Become part of our compassionate team, dedicated to providing exceptional care and support. Apply today and start making a difference!

We truly value our employees and are committed to their success! We offer long-term employment opportunities with job stability, as well as support and encouragement for career growth and advancement. Our comprehensive benefits package includes Health, Dental, and Vision insurance, Paid Time Off, 9 Paid Holidays, a 403(b) Retirement Plan with company matching, and company-paid Life Insurance. Join our team and experience a workplace culture that fosters teamwork, growth, and support!Los Angeles Jewish Health has been a trusted provider of senior healthcare for over 100 years, offering a wide range of services that prioritize excellence and Jewish values. We serve more than 4,000 seniors across our San Fernando Valley campuses, delivering personalized care tailored to each individual’s needs, from independent living to specialized healthcare programs.The responsibilities of the Dietary Supervisor include, but are not limited to: Responsibilities:Supervise department and kitchen personnel to ensure work is performed according to specified standards and in compliance with regulations and requirements.Assist with food preparation and catered functions as needed.Help schedule staff according to department needs and catering functions, ensuring alignment with budgetary guidelines.Orient, evaluate, and assess staff performance as needed.Cook and prepare meals as necessary.Order supplies as needed.Experience and Skills:Requires 2-4 years of supervisory experience, preferably in a nursing home or healthcare setting.Food Handling Certification required.Excellent communication skills.Proficient in computer use and customer service-oriented.Spanish language skills are a plus.Join Los Angeles Jewish Health and make a meaningful impact in the lives of seniors in our community. Become part of our compassionate team, dedicated to providing exceptional care and support. Apply today and start making a difference!

We truly value our employees and are committed to their success! We offer long-term employment opportunities with job stability, as well as support and encouragement for career growth and advancement. Our comprehensive benefits package includes Health, Dental, and Vision insurance, Paid Time Off, 9 Paid Holidays, a 403(b) Retirement Plan with company matching, and company-paid Life Insurance. Join our team and experience a workplace culture that fosters teamwork, growth, and support!Los Angeles Jewish Health has been a trusted provider of senior healthcare for over 100 years, offering a wide range of services that prioritize excellence and Jewish values. We serve more than 4,000 seniors across our San Fernando Valley campuses, delivering personalized care tailored to each individual’s needs, from independent living to specialized healthcare programs.The responsibilities of the Speech Language Pathologist include, but are not limited to: Responsibilities:Screens and evaluates residents to develop appropriate care plans.Under a physician’s direction, provides direct patient/resident treatment based on an established plan of care.Plans, directs, and conducts rehabilitative treatment programs to restore communicative efficiency for individuals with communication, swallowing, or cognitive disorders.Administers, scores, and interprets specialized hearing and speech tests.Instructs residents, families, and caregivers on how to monitor speech and practice new skills.Completes required forms and documents in accordance with company policies and state and/or federal regulations.Maintains patient records in an accurate and timely manner.Develops special tools and treatment plans tailored to meet the specific needs of patients.Experience and Skills:Master of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology.Licensed in Speech-Language Pathology as required by state law.Certification in clinical competency (preferred).At least one year of clinical experience is preferred.Supervisory Responsibilities:May supervise Rehab Aides and other staff involved in the program.Physical Demands and Environment:Shift work may be required.Employee is frequently required to stand, walk, use hands or fingers, reach with hands and arms, feel, talk, and hear.Employee may occasionally assist with lifting and/or transferring patients weighing between 100 to 250 pounds.Employee may occasionally be exposed to blood or other body fluids, fumes, airborne particles, and toxic or caustic chemicals.In compliance with applicable law, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.Join Los Angeles Jewish Health and make a meaningful impact in the lives of seniors in our community. Become part of our compassionate team, dedicated to providing exceptional care and support. Apply today and start making a difference!#LAJH1

We truly value our employees and are committed to their success! We offer long-term employment opportunities with job stability, as well as support and encouragement for career growth and advancement. Our comprehensive benefits package includes Health, Dental, and Vision insurance, Paid Time Off, 9 Paid Holidays, a 403(b) Retirement Plan with company matching, and company-paid Life Insurance. Join our team and experience a workplace culture that fosters teamwork, growth, and support!Los Angeles Jewish Health has been a trusted provider of senior healthcare for over 100 years, offering a wide range of services that prioritize excellence and Jewish values. We serve more than 4,000 seniors across our San Fernando Valley campuses, delivering personalized care tailored to each individual’s needs, from independent living to specialized healthcare programs.The responsibilities of the Director of Rehabilitation include, but are not limited to:Responsibilities:Recruits, hires, provides orientation/training, and retains a sufficient number of qualified staff to carry out the responsibilities of the Rehabilitation department.  Ensures employee performance meets or exceeds expectations and periodic performance appraisals are conducted on a timely basis.Ensures rehabilitation staff is providing appropriate care to Resident in keeping with established standards for quality and in accordance with generally established principles of care.Supervises the scheduling of residents for therapy services considering available treatment hours, staff resources and overall plan of care.Manages the evaluation and development of in-house therapy programs including equipment assessment and staffing ratios.Completes required forms and documents in accordance with company policy and state and/or federal regulations.May be required to perform patient care duties as their licensed discipline.Assist department directors in preparing an annual operating budget for approval by the Administrator.Education/Experience Requirements:Current valid state licensure as an OTR, PT, or SLP-CCC.Three years’ previous clinical experience preferred.Must have a current BCLS certification or acquire within three (3) months of hiring. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:Ability to interact effectively with patients, visitors, administration, physicians, and staffKnowledge of State and Federal laws and regulationsAbility to read, write and speak English in a clear mannerDesire to work with geriatric peopleAbility to generate enthusiasm and cooperation from othersMust possess the ability to make independent decisions when necessaryAbility to understand and respond appropriately to cultural diversityJoin Los Angeles Jewish Health and make a meaningful impact in the lives of seniors in our community. Become part of our compassionate team, dedicated to providing exceptional care and support. Apply today and start making a difference!#LAJH1