October 25, 2023 —Change is an inevitability, one that brings challenges and opportunities. While change often comes with uncertainty and discomfort, it also offers the hope of positive transformation. Embracing change with resilience and an open mind can foster innovation, durability, and the opportunity to redefine our futures for the better. Inevitability and potential for growth go hand in hand, reminding us that even in the face of uncertainty, there is always room for improvement and new beginnings.
Kendal’s long-term vision is to deliver on its promise to transform the experience of aging. We will do this by promoting our shared values internally and to the wider world, and by finding new, consistent and innovative ways to support Kendal Affiliates while exploring emerging opportunities. We are stronger together in a world divided.
The field of senior living and services for older adults is experiencing significant change. With changing demographics, new technologies and evolving consumer preferences, providers must adapt to stay relevant. And all this is enveloped within a complex and uncertain economic environment.
At this moment in time, Kendal is embracing change and recognizing that what may seem like disturbing shifts are a natural progression as we, as an organization, continue to grow, evolve and adapt.
The news of a community disaffiliating with Kendal impacts us. A long System review and Affiliation agreement development affects us. These are significant events and not to be minimized.
In some cases, change means acknowledging loss. We notice the unique contributions that former Kendal Affiliates brought to this System and are grateful for that shared experience even once it comes to an end. Amidst all this, we can see an incredible opportunity for growth. The purpose of ritual is transformation, and as our Kendal rituals evolve – system review, the network of facilitated peer groups and gatherings, intentional collaboration, leadership forum – they better equip us to face the future not just together but transformed and united. When each matters, all matter.
This fall, we warmly welcome the first Kendal community in California – the first new Kendal community in a decade. The turmoil in the capital markets, the vitriolic political climate, and the extreme weather events caused by climate change (regardless of whether you believe humans accelerated the cycle) make this accomplishment something to notice, appreciate and applaud. We celebrate Enso Verde, under development in southern California. Hot off the press is a commitment to explore a unique new community in Ohio in partnership with Kendal at Home and Kendal at Oberlin, and a proposed northern California Kendal community in Humbolt that will serve an unmet need with a small middle-market community. Kendal Affiliates are planning to expand, renovate, add new business lines and innovate with technology. I’m impressed with how Kendal does not miss a beat in an unpredictable economy and complex societal landscape.
Even after the last few years, or maybe because of them, I’m excited and hopeful. I also remain process-oriented and practical (my CFO DNA runs strong!). As we approach these changes, we are being transparent and strategic regarding our goals and objectives, and deliberately increasing and improving communication. We are working to create a supportive culture, to keep our eye on the big picture, and, of course, to adapt to every change as our needs, processes and plans develop.
In “The Atheists Guide to Quaker Process: Spirit-Led Decisions for the Secular,” Selden W. Smith invites his readers to “bring your best self, not your best game,” and that is my intention. There is no other “System” like Kendal, so we must be like no other System. I am looking forward to crafting our collective future with each of you.
-Amy Harrison, Interim CEO and Chief Financial Officer, The Kendal Corporation