Today we’d like to introduce you to Tracey Cravedi.
Tracey, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Hale House was founded in 1973 by a small group of Boston residents concerned about their elderly Back Bay neighbors. They purchased a block of rundown brownstones forming the corner of Clarendon and Marlborough Streets that had been home to writer Henry Adams as well as the birthplace of the Massachusetts Audubon Society. Hale House today is a beautiful, historically important structure that serves as a home to 56 Boston area seniors.
I have been Executive Director here since 2009 and love being part of this beloved neighborhood institution.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Every day brings its challenges! We are housed in an antique building, in a busy modern city, serving fragile elders with limited resources. Medical crises, staffing challenges, competing for grants, complying with endless regulations…throw in Boston parking and weather and you never have a down moment!
Hale House Barnard Services – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Hale House offers residential care, a wide range of activities, and community services. It provides private rooms, meals, and 24-hour care to 56 elderly men and women regardless of their ability to pay. Most of our residents have lived in Boston most of their lives and continue to enjoy the amenities of the city.
In addition, our Bill Payer Program provides financial supportive services to people living in their own homes who are no longer able to manage their finances.
We are lucky to have such support from the neighborhood, from gardening groups to social volunteers, services like manicurists and massage therapists, and visiting artists from the various schools nearby. We are always looking for new volunteers to lead activities, accompany residents on outings, or just visit socially.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
I am a perfectionist – every detail has to be flawless. But I also have a big heart and love human interactions. When those two opposite drives come together I call it success.
I push this in all areas of my life because it’s so important to me and it gives great outcomes. I insist on hard-working, smart, sincere staff and that’s what we have here at Hale House. High standards bring excellent results, whether it’s the look of an antique mirror or the way aides interact with the residents.
Contact Info:
- Address: Hale House
273 Clarendon Street
Boston, MA 02116 - Website: https://www.halebarnard.org/
- Phone: 617-536-3726
- Email: jwilburn@halebarnard.org
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Hale-House-171617696250004/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/hale-house-boston
Image Credit:
Mary Prince Photography
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