Outstanding Volunteer Chosen by NJAHSA

Lieselotte “Lee” Kaufmann, a resident of the Jewish Home at Rockleigh, was recently recognized for her outstanding work as a volunteer by the New Jersey Association of Homes and Services for the Aging. Lee was picked as Resident of the Year.

Born in Germany, Lee came to the U.S. on her own at the age of 18. Married at the age of 21, she became active in her local temple in New York City. She continued as an active volunteer when she and her husband moved to Bergen County. As president of the Sisterhood in a Bergen County synagogue, she assisted with the organization’s monthly bulletin and fundraising projects, and organized a bingo game that took place every Monday for 10 years at the Jewish Home and Rehabilitation Center in River Vale, NJ.

When Lee became a resident of the Jewish Home at Rockleigh, “she almost immediately became a resident/volunteer,” noted Charlene Vannucci, JHR’s Director of Therapeutic Recreation and Volunteer Coordinator, and “began assisting with mailings and fundraising. She also became an advocate for other residents’ needs, working through our Resident Welfare Committee and Resident Council.” In addition, Lee worked on the purchase of a player piano for frail residents on one of JHR’s long-term care wings, identified the need to purchase a bus to provide additional transportation for resident outings, and helped raise funds for this project. “Lee also greets new residents and helps them make an adjustment to nursing home living,” notes Charlene. NJAHSA’s president and CEO Michele Guhl presented the award to Lee at JHR’s recent Volunteer Thank You Dinner, honoring its many volunteers – community members as well as residents.

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