One of things that I’m most proud of at our center is that we serve participants that speak 5 languages – English, Spanish, French Creole, Chinese and Korean. We have staff and translators that speak each of these languages, and we’re always mindful of each culture’s traditions and holidays. We also incorporate the cultures into activity planning. Over the years, our participants have helped us create center decorations that reflect the cultures we serve. In the pictures, you will see some beautiful origami created to celebrate Chinese New Year.

I’m constantly amazed at how our participants and staff develop bonds and find ways to communicate with each other. As Ms. L., age 93, wrote in an eloquent poem, ”As one can clearly see, we are a quilted family, regardless of class or creed, color or shade, race or face, we are accepted in this place.  Each square fits perfectly, the quilt displays an unmatched beauty that emits the fragrance of unity, which strengthens us to make it for the Center we all love.”

As an agency, Visiting Nurse Service of New York takes pride in providing care that respects and recognizes the many cultures we see in New York City. For more information, check out www.vnsny.org.