Making a Difference: Volunteer Corps Has Powerful Impact on The Danish Home of Chicago Senior Living Community
At The Danish Home of Chicago, the Volunteer Corps is committed to creating a lasting impact on the community and residents themselves. Through offering both practical support and personal connections, volunteers engage with residents through activities, shared stories, and simply lending a listening ear, all while fostering meaningful relationships that enrich the lives of…
Reality Check on Long-Term Care
First responders have long known a good nursing home from a less desirable one. The care a resident has been receiving is evident to them. But how can you tell the difference? “Long-term care communities are a gift to many families and residents. Done well, it is a place that helps physically, emotionally,…
Renovation and Expansion Project Strengthens a Community’s Senior Care
Norwood Park, IL: An expansion project consisting of five independent living one-bedroom apartments and nine additional private healthcare suites is the culmination of a multi-million dollar renovation and expansion project at The Danish Home of Chicago, a continuing care retirement community. Expected to be completed in the Spring of 2025, The Danish Home of…
The Danish Home of Chicago Receives Founding Member Award from LeadingAge Illinois
The Danish Home of Chicago, a boutique senior community located in Norwood Park, has proudly received the Founding Member Award from LeadingAge Illinois in recognition of 100 years of outstanding membership. The award was presented to the community during LeadingAge Illinois’ 100th anniversary dinner on July 29th, 2024. The organization honored The Danish Home during…
Summerfest 2024: the Event of the Summer for a Norwood Park Senior Living Community
Summerfest, the event of the summer at The Danish Home of Chicago, was a smashing success! Special thanks go to all of The Danish Home of Chicago’s fantastic volunteers and hardworking staff for making Summerfest 2024 so successful. Due to the major building expansion construction in the backyard, about 300 guests instead enjoyed the…
Board Member Turns Resident at The Danish Home of Chicago
Chicago, IL: Karen Frink is used to being in charge. She served on The Danish Home Board of Directors for 20 years, the Women’s Auxiliary Board, and several boards for Scandinavian organizations. It’s no wonder her peers just re-elected her as President of The Danish Home Resident Council for another two-year term. “I like…
Resident and Former Mechanical Engineer Finds Passion in Construction Project at The Danish Home of Chicago
Our careers may be over when we retire, but for one resident, her passion and love for her past profession still lights a fire in her even at the ripe age of 93. This individual’s unwavering love for her work as a mechanical engineer has found a new outlet as she closely observes the construction…
The Danish Home of Chicago Adventures: Where Will the Residents Go Next?
Although the 2024 year has just begun, The Danish Home of Chicago has already embarked on numerous community outings, filling its residents with smiles and memories that will last a lifetime. The Danish Home of Chicago, a senior living community located in Norwood Park, is no stranger to community outings, thanks to the tireless…
Women’s Auxiliary Celebrates 2024 Spring Luncheon
The Women’s Auxiliary of The Danish Home held a delightful Spring Luncheon and Fundraiser on Saturday, April 13, 2024 at a new location: Manzo’s Banquets, 1571 Elmhurst Road, Des Plaines, Illinois. About 70 guests, including Danish Home residents, Auxiliary board members and members, family and friends, enjoyed the 65th Annual Benefit Luncheon on a beautiful,…
Preserving Danish-American Culture: The Danish Home of Chicago and Its Influence
The Danish Home of Chicago has served as a culture center for Danes in America since it was formed 133 years ago. The senior living community shares its appreciation of this deep-rooted connection between The Danish Home and the Danish-American community throughout its rich history while also welcoming people of all backgrounds with open arms.…
Ambassador of Denmark to the United States visits The Danish Home of Chicago
Monday, February 19, 2024 proved to be an exciting day for The Danish Home of Chicago’s residents, staff and board members. Ambassador Jesper Møller Sørensen, who has served as Ambassador of Denmark to The United States at the Royal Danish Embassy in Washington D.C. since September 2023, visited The Danish Home of Chicago together…
The Dog Days of Finn- The Danish Home of Chicago’s Furry Friend
The Danish Home of Chicago senior living community is no stranger to tail wags, and belly rubs thanks to President and CEO Scott Swanson’s Portuguese Water Dog Finnegan. This senior living community’s furry friend has become an integral part of their community, bringing joy and friendship to staff and residents alike. Finnegan, affectionately known…
Advice About “The Talk”
The holidays were fun. Still – you have a nagging feeling that something wasn’t quite right with your elders. The house was messy. They were not as well-kept as they usually are. You’re wondering: are they eating right? Are their bills getting paid on time? Are they taking their medications on schedule? You may…
The Danish Home Celebrates “Little Christmas Eve”
It’s the season of holiday traditions and beloved Christmas celebrations. At The Danish Home of Chicago, our community unites once again for a traditional favorite, Lillejuleaften, also known as Little Christmas Eve. During the holidays, senior living communities prepare for a season of festivities, and The Danish Home of Chicago, located in the…
New Director of Nursing at The Danish Home of Chicago Brings Passion and Expertise to the Senior Living Community
The Danish Home of Chicago is pleased to announce the appointment of Danielle Santore as the new Director of Nursing. With a strong background in mental health and a commitment to holistic care, Santore is poised to make a significant impact on the well-being of the residents, according to Scott Swanson, president and CEO. Born…
The Danish Home Annual Fall Fest Was a Seasonal Success
A bright, clear, sunny day brought about 300 guests, residents, family, friends, and volunteers together at The Danish Home of Chicago to enjoy the Annual Fall Fest on Sunday, November 5, 2023. Attendees enjoyed musical entertainment provided by The Old Town School of Folk Music while they were busy purchasing items from the treasure…
Couple Finds the Danish Home “Homey and Cozy”
“We are thrilled with The Danish Home and how my aunt and uncle are being treated,” said Joe Damiano, nephew of Vincenzo and Carmela Damiano. Formerly of Chicago, Illinois, the couple now lives at The Danish Home of Chicago. Joe helped his two family members move into the retirement community in the Norwood Park…
The Danish Home of Chicago Breaks Ground on Building Expansion
NORWOOD PARK, CHICAGO, IL: The Danish Home of Chicago and The Danish Home Foundation are proud to announce the groundbreaking for a new addition to their senior living community, according to Scott L. Swanson, President/CEO. The groundbreaking, which took place on Saturday, September 16, 2023, was attended by over 100 donors, residents, and dignitaries, including…
Successful Summerfest at The Danish Home
Poor air quality from Canadian fires did nothing to deter fans from The Danish Home’s annual Summerfest this year. With dozens of volunteers, guests, families, and friends, attendance reached nearly 500 people who took to the festivities excitedly. “This year, we were very pleased to showcase the plans for our new expansion, which will begin…
A commitment to caring: Longtime staff member has a “kind way” with residents
Teresa Carter always had a feeling she would work as a service provider to older adults. It took until her 40s, though, to pursue a career in nursing and realize her calling. “It was always in the back of my mind to seek out this type of work,” the certified nursing assistant says. “I took…
Consul General of Denmark Jesper Køks Andersen Visits The Danish Home
Relationship with Danish consulate one of warmth, hygge. The longtime relationship between The Danish Home of Chicago and the Danish Consulate may boil down to one word: hygge (pronounced HYOO-guh), a feeling of contentment and conviviality and a defining element of Danish culture. “Whenever we visit it’s hygge,” says Birgitte Nørmølle, Consular and…
Members and Friends of Women’s Auxiliary of The Danish Home Gather For Annual Spring Luncheon
Members and Friends of Women’s Auxiliary of The Danish Home Gather For Annual Spring Luncheon Saturday, April 22, 2023, marked the date for The Women’s Auxiliary of The Danish Home’s return to an in-person Spring Luncheon, this year at Belvedere Banquets, an elegant, new location in Elk Grove Village, Illinois. Women’s Auxiliary President Karen Peterson…
Beautiful Beauticians at The Danish Home
Back in the day, on Wednesday morning at 9 o’clock, 8 – 10 volunteers would arrive at The Danish Home to shampoo, set, dry, and comb out the lady residents’ hair because everyone knows a woman always feels better when her hair looks good! Esther Sorensen, lifelong volunteer and now resident at The Danish Home,…
2022 Essence Award presented to Jeff and Cheryl Anderson and the Anderson Family
The Danish Home Foundation is proud to present a truly distinguished family with the 2022 Essence Award. This year’s prestigious honor was presented to Jeff and Cheryl Anderson and the Anderson Family on Saturday, December 10, 2022 at The Danish Home Foundation’s Annual Benefit and Lillejuleaften Celebration at the Hyatt Lodge in Oak Brook,…
I Remember | Warm Memories Live Again This Time of Year
Traditional Danish fare is an important part of the holiday recollections of friends Nora Bogehegn and Karen Frink. Bogehegn was born in Denmark and came to the U.S. during the ‘60s. Frink, of Danish descent, was born and grew up in the Chicago area. Friends for years, they are now neighbors at The Danish Home…
Joan Hoexter Carries On Her Family’s Legacy With The Women’s Auxiliary
For Joan Hoexter, serving the Women’s Auxiliary this past decade was more than a volunteer opportunity. It was carrying on her family’s legacy. Her mother, Elna Lorentzen, founded the Women’s Auxiliary in 1958 after visiting the Danish Home with her husband, who served on the board. “My mom, who got her hair and nails done…
Good Friends Enjoy Perks of Living at The Danish Home
Karen Frink and Nora Bogehegn, who have been good friends, fellow volunteers, and active in the Danish community, are now close neighbors. Karen, formerly of Mt. Prospect and Nora, formerly of Elk Grove, both live at The Danish Home of Chicago. While the move to the senior living community was recent for both, it also…
The Danish Home of Chicago Wins Award in 2022 National Mature Media Awards Program
The Danish Home of Chicago was a winner in the 31st annual National Mature Media Awards Program. The program, presented by the Mature Market Resource Center, a national clearinghouse for the senior market, recognizes the nation’s finest marketing, communications, educational materials, and programs designed and produced for older adults. The Danish Home of Chicago…
Danish Home’s Healthcare Suite Opened After Renovations
The State of Illinois approved opening The Danish Home’s newly renovated Healthcare Suite just in time for Birgit Tyrrell to move her father into the northwest Chicago senior living community. “When my father was in a previous nursing home, he never wanted to leave his bed and was miserable. Since the move to The Danish…
Chef Paul Leads Dining Program With Personal Touch
Directing the dining program in peoples’ homes differs from corporate or restaurant dining management. It’s a difference that Chef Paul Morris is enjoying. The new Dining Services Manager/Executive Chef at The Danish Home said, “There’s a real personal touch. I’m a people person, so I enjoy the interaction.” Chef Paul came to The Danish Home…
Women’s Auxiliary Helps Raise Funds and Fun at The Danish Home of Chicago
Her favorite part of the birthday event is when bios are read for residents celebrating their birthday that month. “It’s interesting to learn more about the birthday celebrants,” Peterson said. Founded in 1958 by Elna Lorentzen, the Women’s Auxiliary helps raise funds for The Danish Home of Chicago. The group’s purpose is to assist in…
Pastry Chef at The Danish Home of Chicago Teaches Herself To Make Danish Desserts To Delight Residents
There’s an old saying, “If you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life.” For Lucia Young, she’s been blessed to turn her love of baking into a professional opportunity at The Danish Home. “I’ve always had a passion for baking,” Young said. “My friend who’s a chef in Washington,…
New Danish Consul General Visits The Danish Home of Chicago
The Danish Home of Chicago’s President/CEO Scott L. Swanson and The Danish Home Foundation’s Development Manager Linda Steffensen recently hosted the new Chicago Danish Consul General Frank Hansen and his wife, Jane, for a delicious luncheon of Danish open-faced sandwiches and a tour of The Danish Home to meet the residents and to see the…
Birthday Party Celebration
We did it again! For the second month in a row, The Danish Home of Chicago residents and guests enjoyed the festive monthly birthday celebration in our beautiful garden and relaxing patio. The weather sure cooperated and was a perfect 75 degrees. Thanks to this month’s sponsor, the Danish Sisterhood Dagmar Lodge #4 of Chicago.…
Discovered Treasure Trove Shows That Danish Home Resident’s Love Story Came True
Discovered Treasure Trove Shows That Danish Home Resident’s Love Story Came True It’s like a Nicholas Sparks love story, and a Hallmark movie all rolled into one, with the added bonus that it’s all true. Maddie Hopkins, a resident of Wicker Park, went antiquing earlier this spring and wandered into Lost Eras, an antique shop…
Taking Stock of Other Ways to Give to Our Capital Campaign
Launched in 2018, The Danish Home Foundation’s $10.5 million “Our Future in Focus” Capital Campaign for physical improvements to our building and increased charitable care has made significant progress. Generous friends and sponsors of The Danish Home of Chicago have buttressed our plans for the future, and we are ever grateful to them. Even amidst…
Medical Friends of The Danish Home Provide Welcome Assistance
We all “get by with a little help from our friends.” At The Danish Home of Chicago, a boutique retirement community in Norwood Park, friends provided more than a little help when busy staff needed it most. Fortunate to have personal ties to trained medical professionals, nursing staff at The Danish Home gratefully enlisted their…
Childhood Polio Victim First to Receive COVID Vaccine at The Danish Home
Eivind Torske walks with the limp he’s had since childhood, when he was stricken with polio as a young boy. It is only fitting, then, that the 88-year-old Norwegian-born resident of The Danish Home of Chicago was first to receive the COVID-19 vaccine when it came to the boutique senior living community in January. A…
Pen Pal Program Etched in Devotion to The Danish Home
The Danish Home of Chicago is resurrecting an old practice to address a new challenge. Since the pandemic has prohibited residents of the boutique senior living community in Norwood Park from visiting with the volunteers they’re used to seeing on a regular basis, they’re exchanging cards and letters with them instead – a good, old-fashioned…
The Danish Home of Chicago and Foundation Recognized With Prestigious Royal Grant
The Danish Home of Chicago and The Danish Home Foundation are proud to announce that “Dronning Margrethes and Prins Henriks Fond” (Queen Margrethe’s and Prince Henrik’s Foundation) in Denmark has awarded a generous grant to The Danish Home Foundation’s “Our Future in Focus” capital campaign. The Danish royal foundation supports cultural, scientific and social purposes in the…
The Danish Home’s Influence Reaches Far and Wide
The Danish Home of Chicago is often described as “a boutique senior living community nestled in the historic neighborhood of Norwood Park.” But, as anyone associated with the community will attest, the 130-year-old edifice is so much more. Extending the boundaries of outstanding care for older adults, The Danish Home is a cultural touchpoint rooted…
Danish Home Bonds Shine Through Second Virtual Event of the Year
For many, the prospect of holding an event “online only” that traditionally occurs in swanky digs with fine food, cocktails and first-class entertainment would be daunting. But the Danish Home Foundation’s annual fundraiser on September 19 wasn’t the boutique senior community’s first virtual rodeo, so to speak. In May, the 129-year-old community nestled in the…
Outdoor Visits Bring Danish Home Residents and Loved Ones Together Again
“I was so extremely excited to see my mom in person! Physical presence is so important,” said Sue Santucci, who hadn’t seen her mother, Mary, face-to-face since February. Until just over a month ago, friends and relatives of residents at The Danish Home of Chicago, a boutique senior community in Norwood Park, had to make…
Benevolent Mountain Man Hikes for Danish America
“I always get my best ideas when I’m hiking,” said Bruce Bro, seasoned climber and new board member of The Danish Home Foundation. One in particular came to him on a trek in early spring: hike the 500-mile Colorado Trail as a “Hike for Danish America” fundraiser benefiting Danish-American organizations across the country. Beginning June…
Virtual Concert Starring Grammy Winner Unites Friends of The Danish Home
In the 129 years since its founding in 1891, The Danish Home of Chicago had a first. On May 21, the Norwood Park boutique senior community and perennial host to traditional festivals and events presented a live, virtual concert featuring two-time Grammy Award-winning violinist and composer Mads Tolling. Streamed on YouTube, it was a…
The Danish Home Feeling Grateful, Cautiously Optimistic
There was high tea at noon, a joyful birthday party, a fabulous dinner, and cocktails of choice. While this merriment sounds like a blast from the not-so-distant past, it was the third week of April and the first time residents at The Danish Home of Chicago could all be together – at least six feet…
The Danish Home a Wise Choice for Residents to Thrive
Evelyn Kapicka loves to share her extensive collection of owls with visitors to her cozy corner apartment at The Danish Home of Chicago. Why owls? Because, she explains, her maiden name of Moudry means “a wise person” in Czech. The 94-year-old picked an appropriate collectible, because she is as bright as they come. Evelyn is…
Notice Anything Different Over the Holidays?
The holidays are over, the bleak mid-winter is in full swing, and people are back to their routines after gathering from far and wide to visit family in November and December. Over the holidays, many adult children and relatives spent more extended, concentrated time with aging parents. As such, they may have noticed some changes…
Longtime Nursing Staff Is Family to Residents of The Danish Home
“I have spent almost half of my life at The Danish Home,” said Imee Miller, who has been a staff nurse at the boutique senior community in Norwood Park since 1998. Her cohort, fellow registered nurse Grace Camoras, has been employed at The Danish Home for the past 12 years. Staff longevity is tenuous in…
The Danish Home’s Jazzy Benefit Honors Danish Consulate and Longtime Friends
Touted as “An Evening of Music and Celebration,” The Danish Home Foundation’s annual benefit on September 21 at the Oak Park Country Club did not disappoint. The event in support of The Danish Home, a boutique senior community and Danish-American cultural center in historic Norwood Park, featured Grammy Award-winning entertainment, live and silent auction packages,…
Danish Consulate and The Danish Home Share Historic Partnership
“You could say we go hand in hand,” said Consul General Jakob Skaarup Nielsen about the Consulate General of Denmark in Chicago’s longtime relationship with The Danish Home. This year, the Consulate will receive The Danish Home Foundation’s Essence Award for exceptional support of the boutique senior community at its annual benefit on September 21.…
Visit to the Homeland Brings Danish-American Bond Full Circle
As president and CEO of The Danish Home of Chicago, Scott Swanson is enmeshed in Danish culture every day of his life. But this year, for the first time, he visited the country from which so many of his beloved residents and friends hail. Along with his wife Amy and The Danish Home Foundation’s development…
Denmark Native and Friend Knows Hygge of The Danish Home
Kirsten Freund knows a thing or two about hygge. Raised in Esbjerg, Denmark, on the North Sea and 100 percent Danish, the faithful friend and volunteer of The Danish Home of Chicago knows what it’s like to cozy up inside a comfy home a good portion of the year. “It got dark at 3:00 in…
Activities at The Danish Home Engage Residents Inside and Out
Robin Decker answers her office phone with all the pep and energy her job as director of resident life at The Danish Home of Chicago senior living community demands. “Activities!” she sings into the receiver. This is the upbeat spirit with which she and her team plan and implement the many resident activities, outings and…
Dining at The Danish Home Adds Big Dash of Love
In a ballroom of over 300 hundred people, Roger Sukhu received a standing ovation for the multi-course meal he and his team prepared for guests of “Lillejuleaften,” The Danish Home of Chicago’s 125th anniversary Christmas celebration in 2017. “That’s when I really understood how much people appreciate what I do,” said The Danish Home’s dining…
Linda Steffensen Named New Development Manager of The Danish Home Foundation
The Danish Home Foundation is excited to announce that Linda Steffensen of Hoffman Estates, Illinois, has joined The Danish Home Foundation staff as its new development manager. Linda’s connections to The Danish Home of Chicago and the national Danish-American community run deep. “I remember coming to The Danish Home as a young girl and folk…
Relishing the Comforts and Connections of Home
Julia Krueger drops into the apartment of a fellow resident of The Danish Home of Chicago to admire her neighbor’s beautifully blooming tulips. They chat amicably as they regard the bright yellow harbingers of spring. From there, Julia strikes up a conversation with Linda Steffensen, development manager of the boutique senior living community’s fundraising vehicle,…
Campaign Chair Knows Joy of The Danish Home’s History
“Joy” is a word Kristie Hansen-Mendez uses generously to describe the unique living experience at The Danish Home of Chicago. “My mother truly loved living here in her last months. The joy of friendship that she experienced in this boutique environment is truly special and was so important to her well-being. It gave her such…
Former Administrator Becomes Resident of The Danish Home
There is no greater testament to the quality of life at The Danish Home of Chicago than a former executive becoming a resident. That’s exactly what happened last October when Leif Nielsen and his wife Diana moved from the house next door (literally) into The Danish Home, where he was administrator for 25 years. “We…
Scout’s Honor Comes to The Danish Home
She was the first woman in Chicago to receive a pin for 70 years of service to the Girl Scouts. No one had ever served that long in this city. That was two years ago, and Annette Cameron is still going strong with the organization she joined as a teenager. A resident of The Danish…
Couple Shares Lifetime of Ties to The Danish Home
“My husband took his very first steps at The Danish Home,” said Esther Sorensen. “Years later, he took his last there, too.” A resident of The Danish Home, the late Jim Sorensen attended The Danish Home’s annual picnics as early as toddlerhood, as did Esther. Born in Denmark and friends from the homeland, Jim and…
Brand New Resident Welcomes Brand New Life
Seated in her new apartment, surrounded by Danish collectibles, Elaine Jensen displays a photo book of her late husband’s famous smoke house business. She came directly from Hawaii, where she lived for 30 years, but Elaine Jensen is very excited to start her “new adventure” at The Danish Home of Chicago. “Life is what…
New Danish Home Resident Is One of Chicago’s Finest
Earl Larsen moved into The Danish Home from his home in Door County, Wisconsin, just two months ago. But the former Chicago firefighter was a mere boy the first time he came to the boutique senior community. “I used to go to the summer picnics with my grandparents. I’ve known this place for over…
The Viking Chef Returns to The Danish Home for Annual Benefit
The Danish Home of Chicago boutique senior living community will once again welcome professional chef Stig “The Viking Chef” Hansen to its annual benefit on September 15, this year entitled “Cuisine and Corks: An Evening in the Garden and Focus on Our Future.” Last year, Hansen prepared gourmet Nordic cuisine for The Danish Home’s 125th…
Feeling Right at Home at The Danish Home
Born in Poland, Danuta Eriksen felt completely at home when she moved to The Danish Home of Chicago in March of 2017. That’s because her late husband was Danish and so much of the couple’s life revolved around Danish foods and customs. In all, Danuta has been to Denmark six times. “Our home was everything…
Sun and Fun Chase Blues Away at The Danish Home Summerfest
On the first day without rain all week, The Danish Home of Chicago boutique senior living community welcomed nearly 600 guests to its annual Summerfest June 23rd. Children, teens and adults from the home’s Norwood Park neighborhood came as well as the many friends, family members and supporters of the not-for-profit residence. “It was…
Residents Take Joy in Activities at The Danish Home
She is 93 years old and willingly did something that would give people a fraction of her age pause. On a clear day May 24th, Shirley Spear, resident of The Danish Home of Chicago boutique senior living community, braved the Tilt! window attraction at Chicago’s John Hancock Center. Taking her place in the bank of…
Residents of The Danish Home Go Stargazing
It was maybe the best part of the trip. Although Julie Krueger believes she’s gained weight due largely to the great food at The Danish Home, she weighs a lowly 47 pounds. Or at least its equivalent, if she lived on the moon. Julie was one of about a dozen residents from the senior living…
Volunteer Spirit Long and Strong at The Danish Home
On a picture-perfect day June 24, The Danish Home of Chicago boutique senior living community celebrated “Spirit of Family” with an outdoor festival reminiscent of Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen. While scores of families came out for The Danish Home’s 125th anniversary event, it may as aptly have been called “Spirit of Volunteers.” Over 100 of…
Popular Blog Leads Man to Connect with His Ancestors
A chance Google search, which led to a popular blog, introduced a New York resident to his family’s prestigious legacy beyond anything he could have imagined. John Thorsen, Jr. of East Hampton, New York, fortuitously stumbled on The Hope Chest, a blog of The Danish Home of Chicago. “I Googled my great-great grandmother Emma Thorsen…
True To Its Name, The Danish Home Is Very Homelike
Her expectations were high, but have been impressively exceeded. When Ellen Stolfa-Rowe’s mother Evelyn Stolfa made the decision to move to The Danish Home almost ten years ago, Ellen was all for it, primarily due to the great things she’d heard about the boutique senior living community. “I knew she’d be going into a great…
After All These Years, Senior Resident Finds Dream “Home”
The Danish Home boutique senior community in the Chicago neighborhood of Norwood Park, caught Marge Mickey’s eye long before she moved in. The Danish Home, a boutique senior community in the Chicago neighborhood of Norwood Park, caught Marge Mickey’s eye long before she moved in as a resident in 2012. Having raised her family in…
