PHI Partners with Jah-Jireh Homes of America
Debbie and Darbin Skeans are two mission-driven entrepreneurs who cared for their aging parents in their home in Allentown, Pennsylvania. This very personal experience sparked an idea for a currently unmet need in a faith-based community in long term care. The Skeans are Jehovah’s Witnesses, and saw the need for members of this faith in their community to have a supportive living environment for its aging members that is uniquely prepared to support their spirituality.
The Skeans did some research and a Board of Directors was formed. A decision was made to launch the not-for-profit Jah-Jireh Homes of America. The name Jah-Jireh means “Jehovah provides” and is taken from the account at Genesis 22: 11-14. Jah-Jireh Homes of America intends to open its first location, Legacy Place Cottages, in Allentown sometime in 2014.
Early in the project, Debbie Skeans contacted PHI to explore how our education and consultation could be a fit for this unique organization. Our partnership began about a year ago, and PHI has been an active collaborator in all aspects of the project, from input into architectural design to staffing models. Each of the three cottages at Legacy Place will be a true home, centered around a beautiful hearth which promotes a warm and inviting environment. Nearby is an open kitchen, den/library, and 10 to 12 private suites, each with its own bathroom. The small scale and single level design eliminates stairs, long hallways, and elevators. Two of the homes will provide assisted living care; one cottage will be specially designed and operated for those with memory impairment.
PHI Organizational Change Consultant Kathy McCollett serves as the lead consultant to Jah-Jireh Homes of America, and is working with our communications team to create a more detailed case study about this exciting project. Stay tuned for updates on Legacy Place Cottages as construction is scheduled to begin in the spring!
