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January 1, 2024 | Russell Crews, President & CEO | CC Young Senior Living
by Russell Crews, President and Chief Executive Officer
Two years ago, we selected Thomas Cuisine as our new food service vendor. Even though their corporate office is based in Meridian, Idaho, their presence is nationwide. They serve large organizations like ours in senior living, plus independent schools, healthcare, and corporate dining venues. They believe that food is the first and most important medicine on any health journey. One reason they were appealing to us is their unique approach to food service in our industry. Their philosophy and approach is cooking from scratch with local, “REAL” foods and ingredients. They developed their R.E.A.L. food program with the goal of helping individuals adopt healthier food choices centered on seasonably fresh produce, whole grains, lean proteins, and foods prepared with minimal amounts of healthy fats. R.E.A.L. food, according to their definition, is Robust in flavor, using Exceptional ingredients, Avoiding additives, and Loaded with nutrients. The result is that Thomas Cuisine delivers cleaner, minimally-processed foods that are delicious, fresh and wholesome. Since food service is integral to our daily operation, this approach resonated with all of us!
After the initial transition and “getting to know you” period, our experience with Thomas Cuisine has been excellent. The management team, the responsiveness, the food quality, the catering are all above expectations. And our residents agree! The food committee meetings with both Independent Living and Assisted Living have been very positive as well as the surveys from residents in Skilled Nursing.
As you may suspect, dining and nursing are the two largest departments on our campus. Consider this: Every month, our chefs prepare a staggering 31,000+ meals across all levels of care on our campus each year. The monthly meals annualized converts to 372,000 meals prepared on our campus. That is quite a logistical operation! The team that coordinates everything consists of 9 Thomas Cuisine managers plus these CC Young employees: 33 cooks, 1 baker, 1 receiver (to inventory incoming orders), 18 porters, 21 servers, 42 diet aides, and 6 supervisors. That’s 131 individuals who are charged with bringing meals to 10 different dining venues on campus. Impressive!
Someone who’s been instrumental in shaping culinary delights in Independent Living at CC Young is Rafael Hurtado, the Sous Chef at The Asbury. Rafa isn’t just a chef; he’s a charming artist who paints flavors onto our plates, making every meal a masterpiece. His journey from mastering traditional culinary techniques to incorporating innovative and diverse recipes into our menu is truly inspiring. It is clear that he enjoys his job. His commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients not only elevates the taste but also reflects a deeper dedication to our residents’ well-being. Personally, two words say a lot about one of my first experiences with Rafa: Pot Pie. (If you’ve tasted this delicacy of his, you know what I mean!)
Thomas Cuisine’s unwavering commitment to every individual’s needs is not just in IL and AL. They also focus on offering flavorful meal options in Skilled Nursing for those with dietary restrictions and unusual personal preferences. Whether the issue is salt or sugar intake, or perhaps swallowing challenges or something completely different, they go above and beyond to ensure each meal specifically suits the resident’s needs.
The individual responsible for dining in this clinical setting is Lorna Towers Sanders. Lorna is a Registered Dietitian with both Bachelor and Master degrees in nutrition from UT Southwestern. Most of her career has been working with older adults – which is likely why she excels in our environment. Her attention to detail and her listening skills are key to success in this clinical environment.
With Thomas Cuisine, it’s not just about the food. It’s about the quality of food and the dining experience. It appears to me that preparing and serving for our campus is not not just a job, it’s a labor of love.
Bon appétit, everyone!
Welcome to ONA Solutions Your Safe Space for a Fresh Start This June!As summer arrives and the days grow brighter, there's no better time to find a home that supports your peace of mind and personal growth. At ONA Solutions, we offer more than just affordable housing we provide a community where women feel safe, supported, and truly at home. Why Choose ONA Solutions?At ONA, every detail is designed with your comfort and safety in mind. Whether you're settling in for a new chapter or just need a peaceful place to land, were here for you. All Utilities Included One simple monthly payment, no hidden fees. Fast, Reliable Wi-Fi Stay connected, study, work, or stream with ease. Move-In Ready Clean, fully furnished rooms so you can feel at home from day one. Women-Only Housing Feel safe and supported in a space created exclusively for women. A Community That Welcomes YouOur doors are open to women from all walks of life. Whether you're starting over, downsizing, or simply looking for a calm and secure home, ONA Solutions is here for you.We proudly welcome: Female Veterans Retirees & Seniors SSI/SSDI Recipients Students & Educators (18+) Why Now? June is the Time to BloomThis month is all about new beginnings. With our limited openings and an unbeatable $75 move-in fee, June is the perfect time to claim your spot in a space designed for care, dignity, and comfort. Lets Get You Settled!Have questions or ready to take the next step? Our friendly team is here to help. Call Us: 9 AM 3 PM: (239) 688-4815 3 PM 5 PM: (239) 785-3315 DM us anytime were happy to chat when it works for you! Stay Connected: Facebook: ONA Solutions Instagram: @onasolutionsllc2024 LinkedIn: ONA Solutions LLC Website: www.onasolutionsllc.com Find More Than a Room Find a Home Come home to comfort, connection, and community. Come home to ONA Solutions.
Caring for a loved one with Alzheimers or another form of dementia is emotionally and physically demanding. Over 11 million Americans provide unpaid care for someone living with these progressive conditions, often sacrificing their own well-being along the way. If youve reached a point where professional support is needed, exploring memory care in Pittsburgh can be a powerful step toward ensuring your loved ones safety and quality of life.But not all memory care communities are alike. From the atmosphere and staff training to medical oversight and amenities, the right environment can make all the difference in your loved ones day-to-day experience.Heres a practical guide to help you evaluate memory care options in the Pittsburgh area with confidence.Understanding the Role of Memory CareMemory care is a specialized form of assisted living tailored to individuals with Alzheimers, dementia, and other memory-related conditions. These communities provide: 24/7 support from trained caregivers Secure environments to prevent wandering Structured daily routines Activities designed to promote cognitive function and engagement A diagnosis like Alzheimers often requires care beyond what family members can provide alone. Memory care helps bridge the gap with professional, compassionate support.Key Features to Evaluate When Touring Memory Care Communities1. Staff Experience and Dementia-Specific TrainingWhen it comes to Alzheimers and dementia care, the qualifications of the caregiving team matter. Ask: Are team members Certified Dementia Practitioners (CDPs)? What is the staff-to-resident ratio? How long have key staff been with the community? Experienced, consistent caregivers are more likely to build trust with residents and recognize subtle changes in health or behavior. Look for staff who demonstrate both professionalism and empathy.2. Clean, Comfortable, and Secure EnvironmentDoes the space feel calm, clean, and welcoming? Look for communities that offer: Clear walking paths and secured outdoor areas Wayfinding cues and calming design elements Clean dining rooms, cozy lounges, and thoughtfully furnished private rooms During your tour, observe how residents interact with staff and each other. A warm, relaxed atmosphere often signals good care behind the scenes.3. Personalized Care Plans and On-Site Medical SupportMemory care isnt one-size-fits-all. Quality communities take time to understand each residents personal story, preferences, and stage of cognitive decline. Ask: How are care plans created and updated? Is on-site nursing available 24/7? What procedures are in place for medical emergencies? Knowing that your loved ones needs will be met not just today, but as their condition progresses, offers priceless peace of mind.4. Engaging Life Enrichment ProgramsPeople living with Alzheimers and dementia benefit from structured, meaningful activities. Look for programs that include: Music therapy and art projects Sensory activities and memory games Gentle exercise and stretching Spiritual or religious offerings Group meals and special events Engagement promotes connection, reduces agitation, and helps residents maintain a sense of purpose.5. Reputation, Licensing, and TransparencyA facilitys track record speaks volumes. Do your homework: Read recent reviews from families Ask for inspection reports and licenses Schedule an in-person tour (and follow your instincts) In Pennsylvania, assisted living and memory care communities are regulated at the state level. You can check inspection history through the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services.6. Transportation, Dining, and Additional AmenitiesQuality of life goes beyond medical care. Consider: Is transportation provided to doctors appointments or outings? Are meals nutritious, flexible, and tailored to dietary needs? Is there a beauty salon, library, or garden on-site? Little details like choosing mealtimes or enjoying a favorite hobby can make your loved one feel at home.Final Thoughts: Youre Not Alone in This DecisionChoosing a memory care community is a deeply personal journey. Whether your loved one is in the early stages of Alzheimers or has more advanced dementia, the goal is the same: ensuring they are supported, safe, and surrounded by compassionate professionals who understand their unique needs.If you're beginning the search for memory care in Pittsburgh, were here to help. Our memory care and assisted living community is designed to provide peace of mind, connection, and expert support for both residents and the families who love them. Learn more about our memory care services and how we support families facing Alzheimers and dementia care decisions.
Welcome to ONA Solutions: Your Safe, Comfortable, and Supportive Home for June! As summer blooms and the days grow longer, there's no better time to find a place where you can feel safe, supported, and right at home. At ONA Solutions, were more than just housing were a community designed for women, built on the values of security, comfort, and compassion. What Makes ONA Solutions Special?When you choose ONA Solutions, youre choosing more than four walls you're choosing peace of mind. Our homes are thoughtfully furnished and designed to provide comfort, connection, and confidence for women in all walks of life.Heres whats waiting for you: All Utilities Included Say goodbye to budgeting stress with electricity, water, and other utilities all covered. High-Speed Wi-Fi Whether you're working, studying, or streaming your favorite shows, you're always connected. Fully Furnished Spaces Our clean, cozy rooms are move-in ready, so you can settle in right away. Women-Only Community Feel empowered and safe in a welcoming space built just for women. We Welcome Women From All BackgroundsAt ONA Solutions, you belong. Whether you're going through a transition, seeking stability, or just looking for a fresh start in a warm and peaceful environment, our doors are open to: Female Veterans Retirees SSI/SSDI Recipients Students & Educators (18+) Why June is the Perfect Time to Join UsJune is a month of growth, renewal, and opportunity and theres no better time to invest in your well-being. With limited spots available and our $75 move-in special, now is the time to secure your space in a safe, affordable, and empowering environment. Get in Touch Today!Our team is here to help you find the right fit. Have questions? Ready to schedule a tour? Reach out during the hours that work best for you: (239) 688-4815 | 9 AM 3 PM (239) 785-3315 | 3 PM 5 PM Or send us a DM anytime were happy to assist! Stay Connected With Us: Facebook: ONA Solutions on Facebook Instagram: @onasolutionsllc2024 LinkedIn: ONA Solutions LLC Website: www.onasolutionsllc.com Your Journey Starts Here. Come home to comfort, community, and care come home to ONA Solutions.
Helping You Gain Strength & Confidence - Do you need healthcare as prescribed by your doctor after receiving a diagnosis, or after surgery, rehab or stroke? Our Home Healthcare offers skilled services - all delivered by our compassionate and experienced team. We offer Home Healthcare wherever a senior calls home.
Our five-star CMS rated community is comprised of caring experts who help you or your loved one live life to the fullest. We invite you to visit The Vista and our Skilled Nursing, Long-Term Care, Respite, and Rehabilitation/Aquatics Center.
The Assisted Living team at CC Young is committed to creating the optimal balance between your individual needs and the way you want to live. This dedication reflects our founders mission to provide support and care for seniors with an unwavering compassionate spirit. The CC Young Life Enrichment team offers residents a full calendar of activities and outings that engage the mind and encourage socialization. Choose from two distinctive residences and floorplans in The Hillside and The Vista to flourish in body, mind and spirit.