SPOP’s May 18^th Symposium Psyche and Soma: Integrating Healthcare for Older Adults – Brought together a panel of professionals who are directly involved in the fostering of the integration of physical and mental healthcare services. The panelists explored how this integration is critical for maintaining and improving the well-being of older people.

The Keynote Speaker, Jeffrey N. Nichols, MD, V.P. for Medical Services, Cabrini Eldercare Consortium and Past President of SPOP, began the discussion by stating that it is no longer possible to ignore or merely give lip service to the mind-body connection. Dr. Nichols outlined the many ways that geriatric illnesses of mind and body interact and presented thoughtful models for improved integration.

On April 30^th, a team of 83 Chartis employees from the greater New York area painted the interior of the Service Program for Older People (SPOP) 188 West 88^th Street facility. As part of the Make a Difference program, these Chartis volunteers prepped and painted over 3,000 square feet. The projected cost of this job by painting professionals had been estimated at over $30,000, resulting in a huge savings for SPOP.

Pete McKenna, Division President, Executive Liability and one of the painting team captains said, “It was great to give back as a team to a community that was looking for help. The team members came from all over Chartis, which gave us time to meet and work with others that we don't usually have the opportunity to on a regular basis- it was a lot of fun.”

Both the staff and clients of SPOP are profoundly grateful to Chartis for their beautifully transformed space at 88^th Street, which is home to SPOP’s Adult Day Center, the Continuing Day Treatment Program, the Peer Advocacy Program and some Administrative offices.

On April 22^nd SPOP held its Annual Benefit, Celebrating Unique Elder Lives. This year’s honorees were Elizabeth J. McCormack, Chair of the Asian Cultural Council, and Jim Lebenthal, President of Lebenthal & Co. These two octogenarians embodied the spirit of SPOP. Each honoree was presented with a proclamation from Councilwoman Gale Brewer. The event was held on the 38^th floor of Skadden Arps which gave the 100+ attendees a panoramic view of the City. The funds raised from the benefit will be used to help pay for SPOP’s many programs and services.