Edgehill Resident Karen Joelson Honored with Heart of the Community Award
At Edgehill, we believe that philanthropy is not just an idea—it’s an action. This Giving Tuesday, we proudly honored one of our own, Karen Joelson, with our annual Heart of the Community Award. Karen, a longtime Stamford resident and passionate volunteer, embodies the spirit of giving in all she does.
Making a Difference in Stamford
Karen has devoted her life to improving Stamford by supporting vital organizations like Pacific House, which provides safe shelter and services for homeless men and young adults and the Domestic Violence Crisis Center, offering counseling and advocacy for victims of domestic violence and their children. Through her efforts, she has helped some of the most vulnerable members of our community.
Her commitment to giving back continues right here at Edgehill, where she has served on the Residents Council and leads the Social Action Committee. Under her leadership, our community has raised record-breaking funds for Stamford Health’s Walk for Hope and the Walk to End Alzheimer’s®.
Inspiring Action at Edgehill
Karen’s passion is contagious. As a former educator, she shares her love of learning by volunteering with the Children’s Learning Centers of Fairfield County and reading to residents in Edgehill’s Mind & Memory Care neighborhood.
“Karen is a force for good at Edgehill,” says Campus Executive Director Christopher Cilano. “Her energy and compassion inspire all of us to do more. She truly deserves this honor and we’re thrilled to celebrate her today.”
Living Benchmark’s Core Values
Karen’s dedication perfectly reflects Benchmark Senior Living’s core values—Called to Care, Better Together and Be the Benchmark. “Mrs. Joelson demonstrates the three Ts of philanthropy—time, treasure and talent,” says Benchmark Chairman and CEO Tom Grape. “She carries out her volunteer work with a positive spirit that enriches lives and unites our community.”
“It Keeps Us Young!”
For Karen, giving back is its own reward. “It feels good to make a difference and it keeps us young!” she says, reflecting on the joy she finds in philanthropy.
At Edgehill, we are inspired every day by Karen’s kindness, energy and commitment to serving others. Her leadership shows that retirement is not the end of giving but the beginning of new ways to make a lasting impact.