Susan Filice, Life Enrichment Director at Stoneridge Creek Retirement, and Shirley Kaminsky, a resident at Stoneridge Creek, discuss opportunities for enrichment and connection at the progressive senior living community. They also share their work volunteering for Connected Horse—a leading nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with dementia and their care partners through equine-assisted programs.

About Susan

As an accomplished event designer, producer, and healthcare administrator, Susan Filice bring a diverse range of skills and experiences to her professional journey. With a passion for creating unforgettable experiences and enriching the lives of others, she has dedicated her career to fostering joy, wellness, and community engagement.

During Susan’s tenure as the Director of Medical Staff at a community hospital, she not only effectively managed the department but also spearheaded transformative initiatives. Recognizing the importance of ongoing medical education, she revitalized the Continuing Medical Education (CME) program, introducing innovative approaches and regional symposiums that garnered acclaim from the California Medical Association (CMA).

Transitioning to the role of Director of Life Enrichment at a prestigious senior living community, Susan embraced the opportunity to further impact lives on a broader scale. With close to 800 residents under her care, she orchestrates a dynamic array of activities and events tailored to enhance their quality of life. From cultural outings and educational seminars to engaging social gatherings, she strives to create meaningful experiences that inspire connection and fulfillment.

About Shirley

Shirley Kaminsky, a registered nurse has had a rich and varied nursing career over more than 4 decades made significant contributions to nursing and to people across the nation. She worked in nursing leadership roles in California. She had a clinical biofeedback practice for 12 years, before starting a Holistic Health Center in the East Bay area.

Shirley was appointed to the AFSP National Leadership Council in 2008. She was elected to the National Board in 2014, and chaired the National Loss & Healing Council. She received the 2013 AFSP National Leadership Award for "her tireless efforts to serve survivors of suicide loss and support of AFSP's mission of suicide prevention."

Since her recent move to the Stoneridge Creek Senior Living Community, Shirley has become involved in many activities in the community as well as joining committees that are integral to the success of the community. Being a part of Connected Horse as a volunteer and now Co Chair of the annual fundraising event, has brought her back to her love of horses, nature and being of service to the population she is now a part of as an elder.

Shirley is also a musician, loves the outdoors, is a former water skier, scuba diver, cyclist and of course an equestrian.

Key Takeaways

• Stoneridge Creek has a resident advisory committee that provides feedback and ideas on creating opportunities personalized and meaningful experiences for residents.
• Stoneridge Creek’s 2023 “Healthier Me” program included fitness classes, like Steady, focused on balance and stability, and encouraged residents to engage in creative pursuits like watercolor painting. This year, the theme is "Explore in 2024," encouraging residents to explore new things and learn more about each other.
• Connected Horse gives volunteers the chance to reconnect with horses, put skills to work, stay physically and mentally active, feel valued and have a sense of purpose.
• Susan and Shirley are co-chairs of Connected Horse 2nd annual "Love Lassos with Love", to be held at Five Star Equestrian Center in Pleasanton on September 7th, 2024. Kansas Carradine, an expert equestrian, will be performing and there will be dinner and a silent and live auction and silent auction.