Abramson Senior Center is exploring a merger with Jewish Family & Children’s Service.

Jewish Family and Children’s Service of Greater Philadelphia (JFCS) and Abramson Senior Care, two historic organizations rooted in philanthropic service since the mid-1800s, have announced their intention to pursue a merger. The proposed amalgamation aims to integrate Abramson’s comprehensive care management services for seniors into JFCS’s existing framework, which already encompasses various social services including mental health treatment across all age groups. Notably, JFCS of Southern New Jersey is set to maintain its independent status.

The merger discussions follow a significant leadership transition within JFCS. Abramson’s current executive director, Robin Brandies, has been designated to succeed Paula Goldstein as the incoming CEO of JFCS when Goldstein retires on August 31. The boards of both organizations voted unanimously to initiate negotiations, with a finalized agreement expected to materialize over the forthcoming months. Upon completion of an agreement, it will also require regulatory approval from nonprofit oversight bodies. Should Brandies commence her role at JFCS before the merger is concluded, an interim director will be appointed at Abramson.

A key consideration in the merger deliberations includes the handling of Abramson’s approximately million endowment. Potential strategies involve integrating the endowment with that of JFCS, which has an endowment of million, or retaining its independence, perhaps transforming Abramson into a grant-making foundation. For perspective, JFCS reported total revenue of million during the last fiscal year, while Abramson generated .27 million.

Integrating these two organizations is expected to enhance the spectrum of care available to seniors in the Philadelphia community. The two entities have collaborated previously, including recent efforts to assess the living conditions of Jewish seniors in the area through a study conducted with Federation Housing, which advocates for affordable housing for low- and moderate-income seniors.

This merger discussion began in earnest last June when Brandies and Goldstein engaged in preliminary conversations. With Goldstein’s impending retirement, Brandies recognized an opportunity to apply for the CEO position at JFCS, expressing admiration for the organization’s mission. Meanwhile, Abramson has been adapting its service model in response to economic challenges, previously divesting from unprofitable ventures like nursing home operations, while expanding into home care and hospice services.

As part of its ongoing evolution, Abramson has initiated two Medicare programs aimed at improving care for seniors facing cognitive decline and chronic conditions. These programs reflect a commitment to provide targeted assistance for low-income seniors, ensuring they receive necessary support to maintain independence within their homes.

Through this strategic merger, both JFCS and Abramson aim to solidify their roles as pivotal resources for the aging population in Philadelphia, addressing the ongoing challenges faced by such organizations in an ever-changing healthcare landscape. Media News Source will continue to follow developments in this significant transition.