When community stewardship is bolstered by consistent caring actions on behalf of others, neighbors and communities thrive. These qualities are special and for several years, United Hebrew has recognized individuals and organizations that bear this distinction.
On October 18th, United Hebrew hosted its annual Community Service Awards to honor the outstanding commitment and devotion to the welfare of Westchester County by three individuals and their organizations who are dedicated to improving the lives of those they touch. Marshal Matos, MD, Cardiologist, Montefiore New Rochelle, Tricia Mulligan, PhD, Provost/SVP, Student Affairs, Iona University School of Health Sciences, and Jordan Frey, President, Care Patrol were recognized for their advocacy and commitment to developing services and programs that enrich the lives of seniors on United Hebrew’s campus, and others in the Westchester community and beyond.
Rita Mabli, president and CEO, United Hebrew, presented the honors. “In today’s fast-paced world, it’s important to pause and recognize the selfless work of those who strive to better the lives of others,” she noted. “Through their outstanding dedication, these individuals and organizations exemplify United Hebrew’s mission and purpose of caring for generations. They lead healthcare services and have developed education and programs, which enrich the lives of those who live in the United Hebrew community and beyond.”
Dr. Marshal Matos: A Caring Cardiologist
Dr. Marshal Matos, a distinguished cardiologist specializing in cardiovascular disease, coronary artery disease, preventive cardiology, and arrhythmias, practices primarily in New Rochelle and is affiliated with Montefiore New Rochelle Hospital.
“While Dr. Matos focuses on heart health, he always sees the whole person. He is kind, compassionate, caring, funny and one of the most brilliant cardiologists in New York,” said Mabli in presenting the award. “Thank you for all you have given to our community, and for all the lives you have touched, saved, and made better. You embody all that a physician can and should be.”
For his part, Dr. Matos highlighted the important work of United Hebrew and other healthcare professionals in the region, emphasizing what he considers to be a privilege—caring for others.
“I am humbled to receive recognition for what I believe is a part of the job that I love to do. Every time I walk into an exam room or stand next to a hospital bed, I’m reminded of what a privilege it is to be entrusted with a person’s most precious commodity —their health. I’ve never taken that responsibility for granted. Thank you to Rita, and United Hebrew, for what you do and for this recognition,” said Dr. Matos.
Iona University: A Long-Standing Commitment to the Community
Iona University was recognized for being a partner in the community, exemplified through its collaboration with United Hebrew. For several years, Iona students have volunteered across United Hebrew’s campus: Speech therapy students help residents with tech devices, word games and crossword puzzles; campus ministry students lead faith-based activities and community service projects; and occupational therapy students provide valuable support to residents looking for ways to make living more adaptive to the aging process.
Citing the institution’s history of giving to the community, Mabli expressed her personal gratitude to Iona University. “What better way to live the motto of Iona University: ‘Certa Bonum Certamen,’ meaning ‘Fight the Good Fight.’ The affiliation between Iona University and United Hebrew has not only enriched the lives of our residents but also fostered a strong sense of community and support.”
Care Patrol: Guiding Seniors to Safer Care Choices
Care Patrol is a senior living placement organization dedicated to providing seniors and their families with a less stressful and more straightforward way to find safer care choices. In presenting the award, Nora O’Brien, executive director of assisted living at United Hebrew, noted that Care Patrol’s thorough understanding of the aging process and the complexities of health, social, and financial concerns have made the organization a leader in the industry.
“Care Patrol works closely with families to assess their needs in order to recommend the best independent assisted living, memory care, home care, and skilled nursing options. We are pleased to recognize their contributions and commitment to the healthcare community as a selfless leader and steadfast advocate for those in need. Jordan embodies the true spirit of United Hebrew.”
