Residents' Generosity At The Clare Has Brought Music To The Lives Of Their Fellow Residents

The generosity of residents of The Clare has brought music to the lives of their fellow residents at The Terraces.   The Clare Charitable Foundation, which was founded by residents of the community, raised money for a piano for The Terraces at The Clare, which provides assisted living, memory support, skilled nursing and rehabilitation.

Residents launched the Clare Charitable Foundation, in order to support special initiatives within the community. “We decided that we could solicit contributions and since it’s a charitable foundation, donations are tax-deductible.  There were a lot of good reasons why this fit together well,” said resident Bob Bender, who helped to start the Foundation.

An entertainer regularly plays piano at The Clare and it’s an activity that the residents truly enjoy.  Unfortunately, not everyone from The Terraces is able to attend the performances, and although the pianist was interested in going to The Terraces to play, there was no piano for him there.  “He wanted to entertain the folks at The Terraces but wasn’t able to. This came to the attention of The Foundation,” said Bender.

After conducting an Internet search, Bender was able to find an electric upright piano with special sound effects. Most importantly it’s mobile: it’s on wheels and doesn’t need to be tuned when it’s moved and so is easily accessible to The Terraces.

The Foundation was happy to purchase the piano for The Terraces.  “We had a party for the residents.   We had a box of instruments there and residents, family and staff members picked them up and played along.  The smiles were unbelievable.  It was such a good time.  It was really a thrill,” Bender said.  “It’s nice to have special money put away for special reasons.”

Bender said that the formation of the Foundation and its mission and ability to help other residents, illustrates what is the most significant factor of life at The Clare.  “If you live in a condominium building, you might know who your neighbors are, but you’re not likely to have this strong bond.  Sure, The Clare is beautiful with the woodwork and the artwork and the carpeting, but you can’t put a dollar on the people living here.  We’re all basically one big family.  We all bond and have a connection,” he said.

The Clare at Rush and Pearson is a continuing care retirement community in the heart of Chicago with incomparable lifestyle, amenities and the financial stability only a debt-free community can offer.  The Terraces at The Clare, which provides assisted living, memory support, rehabilitation and skilled nursing, has earned the 5-star quality rating by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.  The Clare is owned by Chicago Senior Care and managed by Life Care Services.  For more information visit: www.theclare.com or call 312-784-8100.