Written by Nathalie Gelineau, Communications Lead, Hillel Lodge
As we embark on our 70th year, The Bess and Moe Greenberg Family Hillel Lodge Long-Term Care Home of Ottawa proudly continues its legacy as a cornerstone of support for the Jewish community.
At our 70th Annual General Meeting on May 27th, Dr. Janet Dollin, President of the Board of Directors, delivered a heartfelt message expressing gratitude to everyone who contributes to the success of Hillel Lodge. "Thank you to all of you—our Board members, devoted staff, incredible volunteers, the Auxiliary, the Foundation, and our donors. You are the heart of Hillel Lodge," she emphasized, acknowledging the dedication that keeps our community thriving.
Dr. Dollin reflected on our rich history, tracing back to 1954 when founders Dora Lithwick and Judge J.C. Horwitz envisioned a Jewish long-term care home in Ottawa. Their “labour of love” became a reality in 1965 with the opening of the original Ottawa Jewish Home for the Aged on Wurtemberg Street. She noted that this vision laid the groundwork for what Hillel Lodge has become today, with future generations of these founders actively involved in our community. As we celebrate this significant milestone, she highlighted the need to address the challenges we face today, including how to serve an aging population with increasing care needs while ensuring staff retention.
Dr. Dollin shared insights from our recent environmental scan, which included discussions with stakeholders such as staff, families, and community partners. Many expressed that Hillel Lodge is one of Ottawa’s most respected long-term care homes, renowned for its compassionate, person-centred care. She emphasized that our greatest strength lies in the warmth of our staff, who often describe residents as family. The term "haimish" emerged frequently, capturing the uniquely Jewish warmth and sense of belonging that transforms our facility into a true home where residents are known and valued. Preserving this essence is essential as we move forward.
Likewise, Ted Cohen, CEO of Hillel Lodge, shared powerful reflections on the essence of our community, opening with a proverb: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” He emphasized that Hillel Lodge is not a place shaped by individual efforts or short-term wins; it’s a community—a tapestry of care, trust, and tradition, woven together by many hands, all working toward something enduring. In long-term care, community isn’t a nice-to-have—it’s everything. It’s the reason our residents feel known, our families feel heard, and our staff feel supported. It’s how we transform care into connection and routine into ritual.
Cohen introduced Hillel Lodge’s new 2026-30 Strategic Plan, rooted in Jewish values and centered around the Hebrew word levav, meaning heart or inner spirit. This plan focuses on four key commitments: personalized care, innovation, deepening belonging, and sustaining strength. These principles guide us as we move forward together.
In closing, he shared a touching story about a longtime resident who described Hillel Lodge as a continuation of her home, where she can create new memories with loved ones. "It's not just that I live here — it’s that I belong here," she said. This sentiment captures our goal to create a place where love, dignity, and belonging truly reside.
Adam Silver, President and CEO of the Jewish Federation of Ottawa, addressed the attendees about the ongoing connection between Hillel Lodge and the Jewish community, highlighting the importance of unity.
David Baker, President and Chair of the Hillel Lodge LTC Foundation, expressed his gratitude to all donors, board members, staff, and supporters as they close this chapter and look ahead. Spoke about the exceptional year, including the Dream Garden becoming a reality. He emphasized that at the heart of their mission is the belief that the community’s elders deserve care with dignity, compassion, and love, and noted that together they are making this a reality every day.
Fran Ross, President of The Auxiliary of Hillel Lodge, spoke proudly about the organization celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, highlighting its longstanding commitment to the residents since the beginning. She noted that The Auxiliary’s contributions play a crucial role in providing the extras that enhance the residents' lives, describing their support as the "icing on the top of the cake." This dedication to enriching the resident experience has been a vital part of Hillel Lodge's community spirit, ensuring that the needs and desires of the residents are met beyond the basics of care.