Changes are afoot at theatrical non-profit Sing For Your Seniors. Founder Jackie Vanderbeck is stepping away from her role as producing artistic director, ending a 20-year tenure. The group has also named Traci Bair its new executive director.
“For 20 years, Jackie’s leadership and passion have been the cornerstone of our organization. Her unwavering commitment has left an indelible mark on our hearts and given the gift of live music to seniors and their caregivers throughout New York City,” says SFYS Board President Tim Hausmann in a statement. “As Jackie embarks on her next chapter in life, we extend our deepest gratitude for her service and the legacy we’re honored to continue.”
The organization is marking Vanderbeck's legacy by creating the Jackie Vanderbeck Legacy Fund, currently looking to raise $10,000 by the end of 2024. The fund is intended to serve seniors with dementia, a personal passion of Vanderbeck's, with a reach throughout the tristate area and in Sacramento, California.
"All not-for-profit social service organizations—particularly those that reach out to under-served or overlooked communities, spring from the heart of a founder, eager and able to reach beyond themselves, someone willing to offer a very personal vision and commitment to make a difference,” says Broadway Cares (which provides financial support to SFYS) Executive Director Tom Viola. "Jackie Vanderbeck is just such a person. And because she is, Sing For Your Seniors was born 20 years ago and now thrives, bringing connection to those who might otherwise feel forgotten in their most vulnerable years. Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS is proud of its longtime support for Sing For Your Seniors. It springs from our great admiration for Jackie and her commitment to kindness, particularly for our beloved elders."
Bair joins the group after a long career as a performer and administrator. “Traci is the perfect person to take on the challenge of running the day-to-day operations of Sing For Your Seniors,” adds Hausmann. “With Jackie remaining an active member of our board, and Traci bringing new ideas to the organization, we’re approaching our 20th anniversary stronger than ever.”
Sing For Your Seniors recruits top Broadway talent to perform for low-income, LGBTQ+, and veteran senior communities. Among their most popular programs is Broadway Sessions, which brings cast members from more than 20 Broadway shows to audiences who would otherwise not have the opportunity or resources to see a Broadway show.
For more information, to donate, or to inquire about performing with SFYS, visit SingForYourSeniors.org.
