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- C1: Modernizing to Meet the Needs of the Residents
C1: Modernizing to Meet the Needs of the Residents
Wednesday, June 17 | 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Target Audience: Affordable Senior Housing; Service Coordinators; Finance; Operations
This session will discuss not only renovations of existing senior housing stock, but also discussing how to invest in modernization that reflects the needs of seniors for the next 20+ years. With an increase in need projected for senior and affordable housing, how do we also utilize existing stock to add additional units. We will review financing options for capital and operating subsidies to help increase revenue as well as the ability to provide additional services to the community.
Speaker Information
COO, Monarch Housing Associates
Asish Patel is the Chief Operating Officer at Monarch Housing Associates and oversees the Housing Development Team and manages Monarch’s operations. Over the past 31 years, Asish has worked on numerous acquisitions, rehabilitation, and new construction projects in all 21 Counties in New Jersey, including urban, rural and suburban areas, resulting in the development of over 3,500 units of housing for special needs persons and persons in need of affordable housing. Asish graduated from the New Jersey Institute of Technology with a bachelor’s degree in architecture, and a master’s degree in management. He attended Pratt Institute’s Community and Economic Development Internship Program and was part of the inaugural class of Enterprise’s Leadership Institute. Mr. Patel was appointed as COO on January 1, 2019. Asish serves as Vice Chair of the Board of the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee of the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York. Additionally, he is on the Facilities Committee for Integrity House and serves as the Chair of the Board of the Supportive Housing Association of New Jersey.
AIA, LEED® AP, Principal, Thriven Design
As a Principal of Thriven Design, Mary is a passionate practitioner and committed advocate for the design and creation of affordable multi-family residential environments which work to promote community, safety, sustainability, and dignity within their programs. Her knowledge and guidance have helped a variety of clients throughout the country achieve successful and affordable award-winning communities and living environments that respond to the physical, emotional, and social needs of their residents.
Senior Vice President for Programs and Services, United Methodist Communities
Cindy Jacques serves as the Senior Vice President of Programs & Services for United Methodist Communities, bringing more than 30 years of leadership experience in senior living and care. A trained social worker, Cindy has worked across the full continuum of long term care, including operations, property development, and specialized dementia services.
In her current role, she guides the strategic direction of senior housing and home care while ensuring program excellence across all UMC communities. Cindy’s career reflects a deep commitment to enhancing quality of life for older adults, supporting women in leadership and advancing innovative models of care.

