Wendy Matalon
Wendy Matalon began her tenure with be.group—then Southern California Presbyterian Homes—25 years ago. She began as a manager at Covenant Manor in 1987. After three months on the job, she became the administrator at White Sands La Jolla and was tapped to serve as its executive director in 1990. During her tenure, Matalon oversaw a $60-million expansion of the beachfront community that included additional residences, a new section to serve those in assisted living and memory care, and a new fitness center. Last month she assumed a new role, as director of philanthropy for be.group communities in San Diego and Orange counties.
We thought this might be an opportune time for Wendy to share her thoughts about her journey with be.group thus far.
Looking back over 25 years, I could write a book! It has been an amazing journey. The opportunities to touch so many lives, the meaningful relationships, the lessons learned are all so powerful. The residents are such a wonderful study of how life can be lived. We have the chance to learn so much from them.
Many of them are accomplished in their field, well educated and traveled. Many have served faithfully their communities—large and small. Those that are the dearest to me are the ones that found a passion or clarity, maybe in their career, but often in how they chose to ‘retire.’ I am so moved by those who give selflessly, who see the bigger picture and who are willing to make a difference. They give their money and time not only with intention, but with joy. Then there are those who just ‘are.’ They are generous of spirit and thought. They are good.
I remember working with two residents over a period of time, and the relationship between the two was contentious. One of them had an idea for the community but couldn’t be dissuaded from a specific way of proceeding. The other didn’t agree with the approach, but was less concerned about getting his way than managing the situation to a positive conclusion. He was masterful. He was able to accomplish the goal without hurt feelings, arrogance or ego. The task was time-consuming and without glory. It was a joy to watch.
Employees are also an interesting study. Some of them are so eager to learn and grow and to do a good job. They don’t necessarily have the desired education, experience or confidence to take the next step. It has always been my job to see them, to speak an encouraging word or present an opportunity. It has repeatedly amazed me how little one has to do to have a positive impact on someone (although sometimes people need a push, sometimes a gentle nudge, sometimes a two-by-four). What better legacy than to have helped others grow? It has given me great pleasure over the years to do just that.
Now I’m on to a new phase in my life. Actually, I’ve been doing some form of fund raising throughout my years as an executive director. My first fund-raising experience was exhilarating.
I was returning to my office after lunch and stopped briefly to work on the jigsaw puzzle in the lounge outside of the chapel. A resident was working on the puzzle as well, and we began talking about a committee we both served on that was working to beautify the community. We both wanted new carpet for the lounges, as they were overdue for replacement.
The president of the resident’s council was opposed to the idea as he felt the carpet was in good repair and other items were a priority. We commiserated for a few minutes and then she asked me what the new carpet would cost. I told her about $40,000. She then asked, “If that amount were donated, would the opposition be eliminated?” I responded that it probably would. She pushed her chair back and said she would be right back. Much to my surprise, she returned a few minutes later with a check for $40,000. We got new carpet, and in the years that followed she gave many gifts, all with a specific purpose. She was one of those residents who gave selflessly and repeatedly—both of her time and money.
I don’t think fund raising will always be quite that easy, but it is exciting to think of all of the possibilities!
