Extreme Makeover: Cushing Edition

After more than a year of demolition and construction work, Cushing’s Washington Street adult residence was completed over the summer.

And the results are unanimous. The staff, residents, and their families are in love with the new space.

“The newly renovated Washington Street home will truly allow the gentlemen who live there the ability to age in place,” said Cushing President and CEO Michelle Markowitz. “The home is single-level, fully accessible, and incorporates SMART technology to allow for more independence. We nearly doubled the square footage, allowing for more room for the five gentlemen that live there. We were thrilled with the completed project.”

“It’s fabulous,” said Rita Harris, whose son, Traves, is one of the five residents. “We’re so pleased, and Traves is so happy. It’s a vibrant, beautiful environment. It’s exactly what you want for your child. It proves to me that Cushing is committed to moving forward and evolving.”

The residents — four of whom lived together in the former residence — moved into the newly updated house in July. Some of them, like Traves, have been residents of Cushing for nearly three decades.

“The boys, they’re a real family,” said Harris. “And the staff is beyond. The level of respect they have for everyone and the dignity they allow for every person, it really is special.”

The home, located at 443 Washington St., has five bedrooms, as well as an additional room for overnight staff. It is one of 15 homes that are part of Cushing’s Adult Services Residential Program, with each housing four to five residents. The settings enable residents to enhance their functional and social skills, take responsibility for daily chores, and develop positive relationships with neighbors and friends — all with 24-hour support from experienced and caring staff. Thanks to all the updates, the house is now Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified and features modern appliances, technology, and even a new porch area with an exercise bike.

“It’s incredible,” said Dave Yoshida, whose son, Brent, lives there. “The rooms are bigger and more spacious. The kitchen and dining area and outdoor space are really nice. It was an old, old building before, so the only thing they could really do is what they did — knock it down and rebuild it. It’s a tremendous addition to Cushing and the future to what they’ll do.”

“I love it,” said resident Tim Rochon. “My favorite part is my new room. It’s so big. I’m so happy. And I’m happy staff are here helping me with my diet. I love being here on campus because it’s close to my jobs.”

Others are in agreement.

“I like living on campus because it’s close to the track,” said resident Ari Tannenbaum.

“For Brent to be able to walk from his home to his work (in the culinary department), it’s an ideal situation,” said Yoshida.

“Cushing has been such a big part of his life and ours,” he continued. “We’ll forever be indebted to the organization.”