"Because our resident population is predominantly Jewish, we have decided to proactively create a long-term training program that addresses the traditions, customs, and nuances that are unique to the Jewish heritage," explained Mark E. Pressman, executive director of North Oaks. "B'nai B'rith has more than 30 years of demonstrated experience in senior housing and 165 years of service to Jewish communities throughout the country and throughout the world, and represents the ideal partner in this initiative."

The training sessions will begin in conjunction with the Jewish High Holidays this fall and will cover a range of issues, beginning with an introduction to the most prominent holidays, dietary laws, and diversity aspects of the religion.

"The educational program is designed to promote sensitivity to and understanding of residents of North Oaks," Pressman said. "Our overall goal is to offer valuable insights into the Jewish heritage so our staff can interact with, and provide higher quality services, to our residents. Many may not know that, to the more observant Jew, it is inappropriate to serve a milkshake with a hamburger at a meal. Others many not realize the importance of the Jewish Sabbath that begins each Friday evening and extends to Saturday at sundown. These examples identify just some of the issues that we intend to cover."

"Both residents and staff of North Oaks will receive daily benefits from this sensitivity training, and the management team is to be commended for initiating this program in a proactive fashion," said Mark Olshan, director of the Center of Senior Services for B'nai B'rith Housing. "Both groups will experience a more congenial and nurturing environment."