Board member turns resident at The Danish Home

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 reelected her as president of The Danish Home Resident Council for another two-year term.

“I like to keep things simple,” confides Karen. “There are no Roberts Rules at my meetings. Instead, we hear from the various departments and may have a guest speaker. We share calendar and safety updates and show residents how to best navigate through the building as changes happen from the new construction. Meetings entertain a few suggestions for the good of the population and concerns that may arise.”

Overall, Karen likes being efficient and keeps monthly meetings to about 30 minutes. High attendance is the reward for the meeting's brevity.

Karen knows when things need to get done. As a former American Foundry Society editor, she's also keen on the details. Recently, Karen gathered every resident's cellphone number, alphabetized it, identified their room number, and circulated it to each resident and management. She updates this important document every six months.

“I came to The Danish Home while still strong and capable three years ago. Months later, I had a medical emergency and was so glad I was here,” shared Karen. She always knew she would live at The Danish Home at some point. Being 100% Danish was part of the reason, but serving the community as a volunteer and board member for so many years made the community home long before she moved in.

Many of Karen's favorite pastimes are playing 21 with other residents and competing with two close fellow residents and friends over Pinocle. Karen still gets out and about on her own often and continues to lend a helping hand wherever it's needed.

The Danish Home is a not-for-profit boutique senior living community at 5656 Newcastle Ave., in Norwood Park, a residential Chicago neighborhood. Independent, catered, and skilled care are offered on a private pay, rental basis.

For information, contact Debi at (773) 775-7383 or visit our website at www.DanishHomeofChicago.org.