Tag Archive for: john knox village of florida

Team member spotlight on CNA Charite Germinald

Charite Germinald, Celebrating 35 Years at JKV

For 35 years, Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Charite Germinald has devoted her career to caring for residents at John Knox Village (JKV). For the past 20 years, she has served as an aide at Gardens West, JKV’s assisted living residence. Originally from Haiti, Charite moved to Florida in 1979 with her mother and husband. Charite, who now has two adult daughters born and raised here in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, became a U.S. citizen 36 years ago.

John Knox Village is South Florida’s premier Life Plan Retirement Community, offering a full continuum of care—from independent living and assisted living to short- and long-term skilled nursing. As a member of the assisted living team, Charite spends her days working closely with residents, supporting them with encouragement, compassion, and warmth.

“It is my job to make the residents as happy as possible,” says Charite. “JKV is their home—you become their family. It is a blessing to have the opportunity to help. We make sure they have everything they need to be comfortable and to answer any questions they have. There are always lots of questions!” she adds with a smile.

Though skilled nursing residences are available on campus, Charite is committed to helping residents remain at Gardens West whenever possible, providing additional care and attention to support their independence.

“I love people, and I love working at JKV,” she adds. “I’ve seen so many changes over the years. It’s grown from a small village into more of a city—but what I appreciate most is how thoughtfully management has handled that growth.”

Charite is proud to say she has been working in the United States for the past 44 years. She was married for 25 years, but her husband, a hardworking bus driver, passed away 21 years ago. Today, she is a proud grandmother of three and keeps busy with her church, ladies’ group, and volunteering.

Gardens West features contemporary suites and studio apartments with private bathrooms, 24-hour CNA support, and daily nursing services, including medication management. Residents enjoy three chef-prepared meals daily in a spacious dining room, along with 24-hour access to snacks and beverages, and the option to dine at venues throughout the campus. A full calendar of life enrichment programs and social activities encourages engagement and connection.

Residents also have access to JKV’s extensive amenities, including beautifully landscaped walking paths, a fitness studio with daily classes, an aquatic complex, performing arts center, on-site salon and spa, dog park, housekeeping and laundry services, scheduled transportation, and 24/7 gated security.

Discover what makes John Knox Village exceptional. We invite you to visit, explore the campus, and meet the dedicated team members—like Charite—who make this community truly feel like home.

 

About John Knox Village, Pompano Beach
John Knox Village (JKV) is an internationally award-winning Life-Plan Continuing Care Retirement Community located in Pompano Beach, Florida.

Founded in 1967, JKV is home to approximately 1,000 residents and offers a full continuum of care, from independent living to assisted living and skilled nursing, within a lush, botanical 70-acre campus.  JKV offers an upscale, enriching lifestyle within a supportive, stress-free environment. The community combines exceptional amenities with lifelong learning opportunities, innovative wellness programs, and services designed to nurture the mind, body, and spirit. Its dedicated team consistently delivers a forward-thinking approach to modern retirement living.

We invite you to learn more and experience our breathtaking campus, astounding amenities, the exceptional team, and our remarkable residents who are all part of what makes JKV extraordinary. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a personal tour.

 

 

Jody Leshinsky holding an ArtServe award

JKV Life Enrichment Manager, Jody Leshinsky Receives 2026 ArtServe Impact Award

On April 17, 2026, at Broward County’s ArtServe 2026 Impact Awards Gala, Jody Leshinsky, Life Enrichment Manager at John Knox Village was recognized as a Community Leader of Impact and honored as one of four recipients of an ArtServe Impact Award.

Jason Hughes, CEO of ArtServe, noted, “The Impact Awards are about celebrating the people who pour their time, talent, and heart into Broward County’s arts community.”

A lifelong arts advocate, Leshinsky has helped shape Broward County’s cultural landscape for more than four decades. She began her career with the county in 1981, and in 2016, she took over programming for the Pompano Beach Amphitheater, Pompano Beach Cultural Center, and other venues.

Since joining John Knox Village in 2022, she has continued to elevate the arts, leading a team that produces more than 200 arts and cultural programs each month—enriching residents’ lives and strengthening community through the arts.

Jody Leshinsky on stage accepting an Impact Award from ArtServe

Jody Leshinsky accepts 2026 ArtServe Impact Award

 

2026 ArtServe Impact Award winners

2026 ArtServe Impact Award Winners

 

About John Knox Village, Pompano Beach
John Knox Village (JKV) is an internationally award-winning Life-Plan Continuing Care Retirement Community located in Pompano Beach, Florida.

Founded in 1967, JKV is home to approximately 1,000 residents and offers a full continuum of care, from independent living to assisted living and skilled nursing, within a lush, botanical 70-acre campus.  JKV offers an upscale, enriching lifestyle within a supportive, stress-free environment. The community combines exceptional amenities with lifelong learning opportunities, innovative wellness programs, and services designed to nurture the mind, body, and spirit. Its dedicated team consistently delivers a forward-thinking approach to modern retirement living.

We invite you to learn more and experience our breathtaking campus, astounding amenities, the exceptional team, and our remarkable residents who are all part of what makes JKV extraordinary. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a personal tour.

 

 

JKV Recognized in U.S. News & World Report 2026 Best Senior Living Rankings

For Immediate Release

POMPANO BEACH, FL | April 20, 2026

John Knox Village of Florida (JKV) in Pompano Beach has been named among the 2026 Best Senior Living communities by U.S. News & World Report, earning top ratings in Independent Living, Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), and Assisted Living categories.

Recognized globally for its trusted health care rankings and consumer guidance, U.S. News & World Report evaluated more than 3,000 senior living communities nationwide for its 2026 report, ultimately naming 1,614 as “Best Senior Living” communities based on excellence in care and resident satisfaction.

U.S. News & World Report Best Senior Living Badge

“We are deeply honored, once again, to be recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top retirement community,” said Melissa Honig, CEO and President of John Knox Village of Florida, Inc. “This distinction reflects our commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for residents to live fully—through connection, wellness, and comprehensive support at every stage of life.”

The Best Senior Living ratings are designed to help older adults and their families navigate the often complex search for independent living, assisted living, memory care, or continuing care retirement communities. Ratings are based on a comprehensive national survey of residents and their family members, conducted on behalf of U.S. News & World Report by authorized survey providers.

Communities are evaluated on key factors including:

  • Dining and Activities
  • Management and Staff Responsiveness
  • Overall Value
  • Social Engagement
  • Safety and Caregiving

Only the highest-performing communities in each care level earn a “Best” designation, reflecting insights gathered from more than 540,000 consumer surveys.

 

About John Knox Village, Pompano Beach
JKV is an internationally award-winning Life-Plan Continuing Care Retirement Community located in Pompano Beach. Founded in 1967, JKV is home to approximately 1,000 residents and offers a full continuum of care, from independent living to assisted living and skilled nursing, within a lush, botanical 70-acre campus.  JKV offers an upscale, enriching lifestyle within a supportive, stress-free environment. The community combines exceptional amenities with lifelong learning opportunities, innovative wellness programs, and services designed to nurture the mind, body, and spirit. Its dedicated team consistently delivers a forward-thinking approach to modern retirement living.

We invite you to learn more and experience our breathtaking campus, astounding amenities, the exceptional team, and our remarkable residents who are all part of what makes JKV extraordinary. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a personal tour.

 

 

The New Pelican publication masthead and logo

Parkinson’s Support Group at JKV Shows Residents They Are Not Alone

The New Pelican

by Martin Lenkowsky | New Pelican Writer

 

Parkinson's Support Group meeting circle at John Knox Village

JKV Fitness Manager Erik Nenortas leads the Parkinson’s Support Group in discussion

 

Pompano Beach — The mood in the room was upbeat.  Not one trace of defeatism could be felt within this small John Knox Village Support Group.

The positive attitude displayed by group members on this Wednesday afternoon, belied by the seriousness of the diagnosis each in the room carries: Parkinson’s disease, a potentially debilitating neurological impairment.

Leading the John Knox Village Parkinson’s Support Group in discussion and exercise was Erik V. Nenortas, John Knox Village’s fitness and wellness manager.  A hand-held mike is passed around so everyone can provide input and share their experiences.

Read the full article:  “You’re not alone in this”: John Knox Parkinson’s support group meets twice a month – New Pelican

 

More Than a Move—A Lifestyle Upgrade
For nearly 60 years, John Knox Village of Pompano Beach, Florida has set the standard for all-inclusive, resort-style retirement living. Residents enjoy world-class fitness programs, state-of-the-art amenities, nutritious dining, and a vibrant calendar of activities designed to promote total well-being.

JKV also offers peace of mind with on-campus healthcare, 24/7 EMTs and security, and no time or financial limits on long-term care benefits — a hallmark of its Life-Plan contract.

Ready to Make Your Move?
At JKV, starting your next chapter doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Residents experience a smooth, stress-free transition and begin enjoying all that JKV has to offer right away.

To learn more about living at John Knox Village or to schedule a personal visit, contact our team today.

 

Why a Life Plan Community is a Wise Investment

South Florida Business Journal logo, white lettering on a red background

 

Reprinted from the South Florida Business Journal, March 31, 2023

By Kim Morgan – John Knox Village

 

Older adults face a variety of choices when planning for their future lifestyle and health care needs. The rising cost of medical care in the U.S., especially long-term care, has made understanding options very important.

The decision to move to a life plan retirement community (also known as continuing care retirement community, or CCRC) is a wise investment in many ways, especially when older adults consider where they would like to age well with purpose, and what a perfect life looks like in retirement. Many life plan communities (LPCs) offer rich social and cultural experiences, excellent health care, security and peace of mind. The financial professionals and estate planners we work with are increasingly advising clients to consider a move to an LPC as it is a responsible option that provides a rewarding lifestyle and ensures long-term health care if the need arises. Residents who choose to live in LPCs are relieved of the stress of becoming a burden to their family, friends and the state as they age.

According to AARP, “The chief benefit of LPCs/CCRCs is that they provide a wide range of care, services and activities in one place, offering residents a sense of stability and familiarity as their abilities or health conditions change. A resident can start out living independently, and later transition to assisted living to get more help with daily activities, or to skilled nursing to receive more medical care, while remaining in the same community.”

Moving to a Life Plan Community Makes Financial Sense

Investing in the future at a life plan community like John Knox Village of Florida (JKV) in Pompano Beach is a proactive move. It comes with the added value of providing health care that may be needed and affords a tangible sense of security for aging in place. An LPC like JKV requires a resident be in good health when moving in, who can then enjoy independent living in a beautiful home with an active lifestyle for as long as possible.

Scott Montgomery, financial advisor to high-net-worth families at Provenance Wealth Advisors in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, says he has often seen clients procrastinate on making a plan by thinking, “I still have time.” But as he notes, “Things can change quickly,” says Montgomery. “This is another strategy — a way to ensure that if you run through your money, you’re not going to have to rely on your children.”

Montgomery feels it is a moral responsibility for professional advisors to talk to their clients about long-term care. “If your financial advisor is not counseling you about long-term care, then reach out to someone who is,” he says.

Life Plan Community Options

NaCCRA (National Continuing Care Residents Association) publishes a Consumer’s Guide as a reference on what to consider when choosing such a move. According to NaCCRA, “It is important, when contemplating a CCRC/LPC, and especially when comparing one to another based on price, to be sure to understand the different types of contracts which are offered.”

There are variations in contracts, however. The two main contracts to consider for moving to an LPC are “Type A” and “Type C.”

Type A Contracts for CCRCs/LPCs

A Type A contract is often referred to as a full care, inclusive contract. At JKV, this contract covers:
• The entrance fee.
• The monthly service fee based on the size of the home selected.
• Unlimited future health care needs with admission to assisted living or skilled nursing.
• All located on JKVs botanical, lush 70-acre campus.

Type C Contracts for CCRCs/LPCs

The Type C contract is usually referred to as a “fee-for” service contract. At JKV, the Type C contract provides the same services as the Type A without the health care benefit:
• With Type C, the resident pays for assisted living or skilled nursing care services as needed, out of pocket.
• JKV residents are charged the prevailing rate for these services with a 10% discount.

 

More Than a Move—A Lifestyle Upgrade

For nearly 60 years, John Knox Village of Pompano Beach, Florida has set the standard for all-inclusive, resort-style retirement living. Residents enjoy world-class fitness programs, state-of-the-art amenities, nutritious dining, and a vibrant calendar of activities designed to promote total well-being.

JKV also offers peace of mind with on-campus healthcare, 24/7 security, and no time or financial limits on long-term care benefits — a hallmark of its Life-Plan contract.

Ready to Make Your Move?

At JKV, starting your next chapter doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Residents experience a smooth, stress-free transition and begin enjoying all that JKV has to offer right away.

To learn more about living at John Knox Village or to schedule a personal visit, contact our team today.

 

 

5 women leaders at John Knox Village recognized by South Florida Business Journal during Women's History Month

Five JKV Leaders Who Help Shape JKV

 

As we honor Women’s History Month, South Florida Business Journal recognizes five leaders at John Knox Village who help shape South Florida’s premier life-plan community.

View the article:  South Florida Business Journal People on the Move March 2026

 

John Knox Village Delivers World-Class Entertainment

That level of programming doesn’t happen by accident.

APAP (Association of Performing Arts Professionals) logo

Did you know that John Knox Village delivers world-class entertainment all throughout the year?  That doesn’t happen on its own. It’s the result of having the benefit of in-house experts at JKV.

For the past few years, John Knox Village’s Life Enrichment Manager Jody Leshinsky and Production Manager Michael Chaney attend the Association of Performing Arts Professionals conference in New York City, known as APAP|NYC — the world’s premier gathering of performing arts professionals held early in the year at the New York Hilton Midtown. Over the course of three high-energy days, Jody and Mike join thousands of talent buyers, agents, and presenters from around the globe to experience live showcases and discover exceptional artists seeking touring opportunities.

So how does John Knox Village in Pompano Beach, Florida consistently attract such impressive and diverse talent month after month, year after year? The answer lies in experience, relationships, and being in the right place at the right time.

As long-time professionals working with entertainers, Jody and Mike know that APAP|NYC offers a rare chance to see world-class performances across every genre — on a single trip. John Knox Village is the only Life Plan Community in Broward County that sends its Life Enrichment leadership to APAP|NYC, underscoring its commitment to cultural excellence.

To maximize opportunities and manage costs, Jody and Mike often collaborate with regional venues such as the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, and the Kravis Center through an industry practice known as block booking or routing.

“Working with other venues allows us to attract artists we normally wouldn’t be able to access on our own,” explains Jody. “That’s how we built relationships with companies like Spot-On Entertainment, which brings the popular Broadway series to John Knox Village.”

During APAP|NYC, Jody and Mike experienced abridged live performances from a wide range of genres, including:

• Music
• Drama/Theater/One-Act Plays
• Dance
• Magic & Illusion
• Science programs
• Educational speakers from esteemed sources including NAT GEO (National Geographic)
• Animal shows, and much more

In all, this year’s event attracted more than 1,000 attendees, with performers representing 22 countries and every state in the nation.

At APAP|NYC, each day brings a plethora of entertainment to consider, including educational programming, and emerging Young Professional theater companies. Six hundred booths spanning three floors showcase artists, agents, and presenters. The evenings are a whirlwind of 15-minute performances at iconic venues including Carnegie Hall, Sony Hall, Midtown ballrooms, and other event spaces.

“We’re always in search of variety and quality to bring back to JKV,” said Mike. “Booking local talent is wonderful, but when we’re able to introduce talent that no one has seen before — artists we discover at APAP—it adds tremendous value for our residents.”

With their many years of combined experience in finding and booking entertainers, Jody and Mike are continually on the hunt for top-tier world class entertainment to bring back to Pompano Beach, to grace the stage at John Knox Village’s Cultural Arts Center, at the heart of JKV’s campus. Their expertise is one of the many things that set the community apart in the sea of senior living communities in South Florida.

To view JKV’s Arts & Cultural calendar of upcoming performances, visit https://johnknoxvillage.com/arts-and-cultural-events/.

Call us to learn more or plan a visit by calling 954-783-4040.

 

More Than a Move—A Lifestyle Upgrade
For nearly 60 years, John Knox Village of Pompano Beach, Florida has set the standard for all-inclusive, resort-style retirement living. Residents enjoy world-class fitness programs, state-of-the-art amenities, nutritious dining, and a vibrant calendar of activities designed to promote total well-being.

JKV also offers peace of mind with on-campus healthcare, 24/7 EMTs and security, and no time or financial limits on long-term care benefits — a hallmark of its Life-Plan contract.

Ready to Make Your Move?
At JKV, starting your next chapter doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Residents experience a smooth, stress-free transition and begin enjoying all that JKV has to offer right away.

To learn more about living at John Knox Village or to schedule a personal visit, contact our team today.

Boca Magazine Asks the Experts: A Talk with Melissa Honig

Boca Magazine, February 2026

Boca Magazine sought to find answers and inspiration from a select group of South Florida local experts in various professions.  

The February issue features an interview with John Knox Village’s Melissa Honig, President & CEO, who shares her insights about JKV and senior living.

 

Boca Magazine - February 2026 cover featuring Patti Lupone

Click and find Melissa’s interview on page 76.

 

As CEO, Melissa leads with experience and genuine compassion at the helm of John Knox Village in Pompano Beach, Florida (JKV).  JKV is a Life-Plan Continuing Care Retirement Community offering an exceptional lifestyle with a full continuum of care, there should you ever need it.  

We invite you to learn more and see our breathtaking campus, the astounding amenities, our outstanding team, and the remarkable residents who are all part of what makes JKV extraordinary.  Contact us today to learn more and schedule a personal visit.

JKV Champions Parkinson’s Disease Awareness & Support

At John Knox Village (JKV) in Pompano Beach, Florida, Parkinson’s Disease (PD) awareness isn’t just acknowledged, it is embraced, supported, and woven into the fabric of campus life.

From specialized fitness programming and resident-led support groups to educational events and community fundraisers, the award-winning Life Plan Continuing Care retirement community has created a robust network of resources for residents living with Parkinson’s Disease and those who love them.

Walking Together for a Cause
JKV hosted an “I Walk for Parkinson’s” fundraiser on January 15, 2026, raising more than $5,000 for the Parkinson’s Foundation and inspiring over 100 walkers to circle scenic Lake Maggie at the heart of the campus.

Participants gathered in the Village Centre Auditorium, where residents and staff members listened to Jennifer De Gruccio, MBA, from the Parkinson’s Foundation on an informative presentation and JKV Fitness Manager, Erik Nentoras, led an energetic warm-up.

Sponsored by the JKV Foundation, the LGBT Network at JKV, The JKV Rotary, and the JKV Fitness Team, The Walk was a true campus-wide collaboration.

 

Fitness Manager Erik Nenortas teaches PWR! Moves class at JKV

 

Specialized Fitness That Makes a Difference

Erik, a licensed PWR! (Parkinson’s Wellness Recovery) instructor, leads multiple Parkinson’s-specific fitness classes each week, including PWR! Moves and PD Punch! boxing. These evidence-based programs help improve balance, mobility, mood, and overall quality of life for participants.

Erik notes that he has seen a noticeable increase in residents developing Parkinson’s symptoms in recent years. Fortunately, research consistently shows that regular exercise is one of the most powerful tools for managing PD. Exercise can help alleviate symptoms, enhance sleep quality, and may even improve medication effectiveness by supporting better absorption.

Strength in Support and Shared Experience

Resident Becky Bewersdorf, whose husband, Bill, has Parkinson’s, runs the monthly PD Support Group and PD Coffee Chats for people experiencing PD and those who care for them.

Becky states: “The support groups have become invaluable to us. We’ve made friends and learned the value of knowing we’re not alone. When one person mentioned sleep disturbances and falling out of bed, suddenly several others had experienced the same thing. No one had talked about it before—but now, no one is embarrassed to share.

These groups make everyone feel better knowing they are not alone. Parkinson’s is different for every individual, yet so many symptoms overlap. My Bill isn’t quite the extrovert I am, so he appreciates that I’ve taken the bull by the horns. I consider these ‘my peeps,’ and I truly try to reach out to everyone.”

 

Becky Bewersdorf and Bill Mahlburg

 

About PWR! Parkinson’s Wellness Recovery

PWR! Moves targets skills known to deteriorate in people with PD—often leading to loss of mobility and function. The exercises can be performed in any position, modified for different ability levels, and progressively increased in both physical and cognitive challenge. This individualized approach helps participants mitigate symptoms and rebuild functional movement.

Parkinson’s Disease by the Numbers
• Over 1 million people in the U.S. currently live with PD
• Approximately 90,000 new cases are diagnosed annually
• By 2030, the U.S. PD population is expected to reach 1.2 million
• In 2021, there were 11.77 million cases worldwide
• Most diagnoses occur after age 50, though 5–10% are diagnosed earlier
• Men are more likely to develop PD than women
• PD is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder, following Alzheimer’s disease

 

More Than a Move—A Lifestyle Upgrade
For nearly 60 years, John Knox Village of Pompano Beach, Florida has set the standard for all-inclusive, resort-style retirement living. Residents enjoy world-class fitness programs, state-of-the-art amenities, nutritious dining, and a vibrant calendar of activities designed to promote total well-being.

JKV also offers peace of mind with on-campus healthcare, 24/7 EMTs and security, and no time or financial limits on long-term care benefits — a hallmark of its Life-Plan contract.

Ready to Make Your Move?
At JKV, starting your next chapter doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Residents experience a smooth, stress-free transition and begin enjoying all that JKV has to offer right away.

To learn more about living at John Knox Village or to schedule a personal visit, contact our team today.

 

 

McKnights Senior Living: People in the News

John Knox Village names Melissa Honig President and CEO

Melissa B. Honig has been appointed President and CEO of Pompano Beach, Florida-based John Knox Village.

Honig previously was the executive director of Valle Verde, a HumanGood continuing care retirement community in Santa Barbara, California.  She worked there for the past 11 years before moving to Florida.  

Read the full story here.

 

Melissa Honig, John Knox Village Chief Executive Officer

Melissa Honig, JKV President & Chief Executive Officer

 

We invite you to learn more and experience our breathtaking campus, astounding amenities, the exceptional team, and our remarkable residents who are all part of what makes JKV extraordinary. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a visit.