This February, Black History Month at Episcopal SeniorLife Communities became a month of learning, celebration and meaningful dialogue at the Episcopal Church Home — led in large part by Veronica Echols, LPN, Clinical Coordinator on 2North.
Turning Disappointment into Action
When Veronica was invited to join the Church Home’s event committee just two weeks before February began, she saw it as an opportunity.
“There’s so much we can share,” she said. “A lot of the people who live here can’t always go out into the community. So we have to bring the community to them.”
That guiding idea shaped the entire month.
Creating Space for Learning and Understanding
For Veronica, Black History Month is about more than recognition. It is about education and shared perspective.
“It’s our opportunity to share the history, the knowledge, the culture with others who may not be familiar,” she explained. “There’s a learning process that happens. People can begin to address or dispel some of the biases or stereotypes they may not even realize they have.”
Her goal was not simply to host events, but to create experiences that would foster genuine understanding. As she shared during a planning meeting, “We know our culture. We want to share it. The goal is to educate others who need a glimpse of what our Black history revolves around.”
A Month of Memorable Events
Several signature events highlighted the celebration, each bringing a different dimension of Black history and culture into the Church Home.
One of the most talked-about moments was a visit from former Rochester mayor Lovely Warren. Before she arrived, some residents were unsure what to expect. Many knew her name from her time in office or from media coverage. But during her visit, they experienced something different — a personal connection.
“When she talks to residents, she actually sees and hears them,” Veronica said. “She doesn’t see anything else but the person in front of her.”
Residents and staff engaged in conversation, asked questions and walked away with a new perspective. The visit allowed them to see beyond headlines and public roles and instead connect with her as a person.
Music also filled the halls when Grammy-nominated saxophonist Jimmie Highsmith Jr. performed for residents. His performance brought energy, warmth and artistry into the space. Residents and staff tapped their feet, smiled and immersed themselves in the live music experience. It was more than entertainment — it was a shared cultural moment that sparked joy and connection.
The Step Dance Team from Nativity Preparatory Academy added another powerful layer to the celebration. Their rhythmic stepping and coordinated performance created a meaningful intergenerational moment. Residents were inspired by the students’ talent and pride, and the students had the opportunity to share an important cultural tradition with a new audience.
Bringing Community Through the Doors
As Clinical Coordinator on 2North, Veronica is accustomed to caring for residents in a clinical setting. This initiative allowed her to connect in a different way — by fostering cultural awareness and conversation.
“We have a wealth of teachers, artists and cultures all around us at the Church Home,” she said. “We should not only tap into that but be good neighbors — invite them to us and go see them.”
The feedback from residents was overwhelmingly positive. Many shared how much they appreciated the opportunity to learn, ask questions and experience something new. Staff were grateful to see such strong engagement and thoughtful programming.
What began as a two-week planning effort grew into a month of impactful experiences that exceeded expectations. Black History Month at the Episcopal Church Home was a reminder that learning does not have an age limit, and that meaningful connection begins with sharing our stories, our culture and ourselves.
Veronica is excited to begin planning with the committee next year and imagining what they can do to top the festivities of this year.
