With a reputation for good care, friendly residents and a lovely campus, Tamarisk was able to celebrate 20 years.

The Tamarisk campus is a stone’s throw from the Warwick Mall, tucked into a tree-lined street off Greenwich Avenue.

"Tamarisk boasts a dedicated staff ready to provide the very best care for its residents. The sense of community and togetherness was palpable from day one. Fast forward two decades, and Tamarisk's legacy remains as vibrant as ever. Grounded in the core Jewish values of honor and compassion that opened its doors, the residence has evolved into a beautiful melting pot, warmly welcoming individuals from all walks of life," said Pam Morris, MSW, President, CEO of Jewish Collaborative Services.

To commemorate this significant milestone, Tamarisk recently hosted the "20 Years of Perfecting the Art of Caring" event, a delightful evening celebrating the heart and soul of Tamarisk—the people who work and live there. Friends and families, both past and present, gathered with staff and residents to revel in the occasion.

Lisa Marie Carbone, memory Care Engagement Director, curated a mini museum of photographs of residents and an exhibit of pictures of hands of residents. 

Under each of the residents' picture, was a quote that Lisa Marie felt best captured the personality or essence of each person.

"I picked each quote by their expressions. Each one is so appropriate," Carbone said.

For the hands display, it started with "These are the hands" and under each of those pictures, gave an insight into the person whose hands were shown.

Throughout the main floor, there were displays of needlework, photography, artwork created by the residents in the Renaissance (memory) support area, crochet, books, pottery, fiber art and a clock collection.

The exhibitors, 18 in all, included; Bertha Faintyeh, Jane Breslau,, Barbar Winnerman, Joan Bergel, Reva Greenstein, Beth Friedman, The residents from Renaissance Memory Unit, Shirley Zeir, Florence Katz, Harry Finkelstein, Hellayne Goldstein-Ramirez, Judy Harris, David Thomas, Jr., Marilyn Wolicki and Herb Meister.

Not all exhibitors were residents, there were a few pieces donated by family members.

Inside the community room was a historical photo gallery. Designed and culled by Jo-Ann Marzilli, Director of Life Enrichment, there were photos from Day One up to the past week.

"This project was very emotional. I spent over two weeks pouring through photos from the past 20 years. There are so many memories and stories tied into this project. It touches your heart," Marzilli said.

The residents were all dressed up and truly enjoyed all the exhibits and the care and effort the staff and faculty put into making the day a huge success.

"When I saw Bertha (Faintych) all dressed up and smiling and talking so openly about her craftwork, it warmed my heart, This is why we do what we do," said Carbone.

The residents themselves are grateful for each other.

Newer resident, Joan Bergel of Cranston, said how grateful she is that she came to Tamarisk.

"If I had to go somewhere, I am glad it was here. I've been so welcomed. Everyone is friendly, the staff makes me feel at home. I feel like I have made some friends, and this was a good choice," Bergel said.

After appetizers were devoured and the gallery reviewed it was time for remarks from the overseers of Tamarisk.

Mindy Stone, Chair of the Board for JCS, spoke of the history of Tamarisk and how the unfulfilled need came to be.

"It has been such a remarkable journey. Back in 1914, the Jewish Home for Aged was originally on Orms Street in Providence," she said.

At some point it was moved to it's last address on Hillside Avenue on the East Side of Providence.

When that closed, it became evident that there was a great need to take care of the elder Jews in the community.

"In 2003, a new chapter started; Tamarisk. In our garden, under the arch is the actual stained glass window from the first JHA. We are a steadfast part of the Jewish community." said Stone.

Morris kept her remarks very short but to the point.

"We would not be here without everyone who is here; residents, volunteers, families, family volunteers and our staff. All of you are the bricks that hold this building together," she said.

Last to speak was Executive Director; Helayne Goldstein-Ramirez.

"I've only been here for six months, but thanks for the party. I want to thank everyone who worked on the gallery, Lisa Marie and Joann truly busted their butts, Dave (maintenance director) moved tables and helped with set up, then moved tables again. Truly a team effort," she said.

Before people dispersed to enjoy dessert, or revisit the exhibits one of the residents asked to speak.

"We know the work that one person did to put this whole event together. With help from others, but this was her idea and she did an amazingly outstanding job. Let's all give Lisa a round of applause," said newer resident Beverly Tcath, formerly of CT.

"It was an unforgettable event, highlighting the profound impact that Tamarisk has had on the lives of its residents and their families over the past two decades. As the residence continues to evolve and grow, its commitment to providing exceptional care and fostering a warm, inclusive community remains unwavering," said Morris.

For more information about Tamarisk Assisted Living Residence, please contact the Marketing Director, Leigh-Ann Renfro via email at Leigh-AnnR@tamariskri.org or call 401-732.0037.

Their website is tamariskri.org