Locally Owned and Managed
In the mid-1970’s, the Oak Park Arms was purchased by two friends, both military veterans, who wanted to offer active retirement living in a community that was full of life, service, and spirit. For nearly 45 years, The Arms continues to be owned by the two friends who today remain very involved and deeply committed.
When they bought the hotel, there were precious few senior living communities in the country. There were a few “old people’s homes” mostly run by religious organizations and nursing homes. Period. They thought, “There’s got to be a better way to care for our older adults.”
No Corporate Red Tape
Many cookie-cutter retirement communities are managed by corporate offices located thousands of miles away. The Oak Park Arms owners provide autonomy to provide care that is centered around the individual, transparent pricing, and strong support to the management and staff.
Long-term Staff Means Familiar (and Friendly) Faces
The longevity of staff members at the Oak Park Arms is attributed to the involvement and support of the local ownership. Led by Executive Director, Moses Williams, an Oak Park Arms staff member since 1993, the front office boasts 125 years of combined experience and employment at the Oak Park Arms. Four managers have been at the Oak Park Arms for more than 20 years. Consistency of leadership and long-term frontline managers provide unmatched stability and support for the community.
Even our newest 2022 front-office staff member has been at the Oak Park Arms for more than a decade. How is that possible? When the need for a life enrichment coordinator arose, we knew our Volunteer of the Year, Dan Kane, was the perfect fit because of his creativity and long-time connection with our residents.
Staff Members
Moses Williams Jr., MAOL, MBA, LNHA
Executive Director
“Working with older adults allows me to tap into my natural value system of caring for others to maintain a quality of life that all people deserve. By serving older adults I have the opportunity to learn from their experiences which makes me a better person and a more organized leader.”
Moses joined the Oak Park Arms in 1993. Since that time he has held positions as the night auditor, the front desk manager and accountant. His natural leadership ability, personal drive and caring nature enabled him to lead the Oak Park Arms. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Healthcare Leadership and a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership from Lewis University. In addition, Moses completed his MBA in Healthcare Administration in May of 2010.
Bonnie Benson
Assistant Director
“My favorite thing about working with our residents is sharing their experiences and getting to know who they are and how they lived. I look at the staff and residents as extended family, and I look forward to every day I work at the Oak Park Arms.”
Bonnie joined the Oak Park Arms in 1994 as a front desk clerk. She rose through the ranks as she was promoted to front desk manager, the administrative assistant, and currently she is the assistant director.
Renee Steingard, LPN
Director of Leasing and Resident Engagement
“I enjoy the residents and all their stories.”
Renee began her career with the Oak Parks Arms in 2018 as the Home Care Manager. In 2022, she assumed the role of Director of Leasing and Resident Engagement. She has worked in senior living communities for many years as a manager of home care for other independent living facilities. Renee is also licensed practical nurse (LPN).
Daniel Kane
Life Enrichment Coordinator
“Instead of location, location, location, the Oak Park Arms is all about people, people, people. This is no accident, given the diverse and fascinating backgrounds of the residents and the staff. I’ve always been amazed at the sense of community one feels at the Arms. The atmosphere is more reminiscent of a college dorm or a student union than a typical senior residence.”
Oak Park resident Daniel Kane has been involved with the Oak Park Arms since 2009. He began as a volunteer when showed classic films for a class titled, “You be the Critic,” and he played music three days a week as the house Deejay. He also taught classes in history, religion, and current events. In 2018 he was named Volunteer of the Year at the Oak Park Arms. His involvement with the community and residents continually grew and he became a staff member in 2022. Kane received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration from Loras College, located in Dubuque, Iowa.
Marzena Ananbeh
Office Administrator
“The best part of my job is knowing every day I make a difference in the residents’ lives.”
Marzena joined the Oak Park Arms in 2007. She holds an associate degree in Business Administration from Moraine Valley Community College in Palos Hills.
Mike Yrchetta
Chief Engineer
“When residents ask me to fix something they are always so appreciative and express their gratitude in such a loving manner. Working at the Oak Park Arms is marvelous, because it is a family oriented business.”
Joining the Oak Park Arms in 2001, Mike is responsible for maintaining the physical plant and keeping the Arms in tip top shape.
Danuta Nagi
Housekeeping Manager
“I love seeing a smile on our residents’ faces when I’m able to help solve their issues. I view all of the Oak Park Arms’ residents like friends and family.”
Danuta joined the Oak Park Arms in 1997. She is responsible for overseeing the housekeeping staff and ensuring that the resident’s suites are always clean and sparkling.
