Longtime Board Members Miriam Fleishman and Stuart Mahler combined have more than 50 years of service to West Hartford Fellowship Housing.

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West Hartford Fellowship Housing (WHFH) is proud to celebrate the exceptional contributions of two of its longest-serving board members, Miriam Fleishman and Stuart Mahler. Combined, Fleishman and Mahler have devoted over 50 years of service to WHFH, helping to shape the organization and ensure that it continues to provide safe, affordable housing to elders and individuals with disabilities in the West Hartford community.

A Legacy of Growth and Innovation

Miriam Fleishman and Stuart Mahler both have witnessed firsthand the tremendous growth and transformation of the organization. When Fleishman first became involved with WHFH in the late 80s, the organization was a much smaller operation, with just a handful of board members managing a limited number of units.

“We’ve seen the organization evolve from a small, run business to a large, well-organized enterprise. The addition of WHFH’s third development in 1991 was a key turning point,” Fleishman explains. “As the government became more involved, the need for expansion became clear. It’s been incredible to watch the organization grow in both size and scope, with residents becoming more engaged and active in the community.”

Mahler, who joined the board in 1999, recalls the early challenges the organization faced. “The first HUD-funded sections were outdated and in need of significant improvements. They were small, and the construction was not energy efficient. It wasn’t the kind of place people wanted to talk about, but it was a place people needed. Our mission was clear – ensure that these homes remained safe, secure, and livable for our residents.”

A Critical Turning Point: Campus Master Planning

One of the most significant turning points during Fleishman and Mahler’s tenure was the decision to address the aging structures of “Fellowship 1 and 2.” Both sections of the complex were showing signs of wear, and it became clear that significant redevelopment was necessary.

“We knew we needed to rebuild, but it wasn’t a simple task,” Mahler recalls. “It took time, persistence, and collaboration with architects, housing consultants, and government agencies to bring that vision to life. We are now in the process of redeveloping our campus by constructing new apartment units so that our residents will live in modern, energy-efficient homes that meet the needs of today’s seniors and young disabled individuals.”

Community Impact and Connections

Both Fleishman and Mahler have always been deeply committed to strengthening the relationship between WHFH and the broader West Hartford community. As Fleishman points out, the location of the fellowship community is ideal with essential services like pharmacies, grocery stores, and banks all within walking distance.

“Over the years, the community has grown more aware of the importance of WHFH,” Fleishman says. “It’s become a respected and valued part of the fabric of West Hartford. Residents are more vibrant, active, and engaged, and the board has done an excellent job of fostering those connections.”

For Mahler, the sense of community and the work of the volunteers has been especially meaningful. “When we first started, it was difficult to get people to serve on the board. Now, we have a dedicated group of volunteers who are passionate about ensuring that WHFH remains a safe, comfortable, and affordable place for those we serve. It’s inspiring to see so many new faces eager to continue the work we started.”

Looking Ahead

Fleishman and Mahler’s legacy of service continues to inspire the next generation of board members and volunteers. Under their leadership, WHFH has expanded and evolved to meet the changing needs of the community. With an increasing number of residents choosing to “age in place,” WHFH has ensured that its services and amenities will continue to support them in leading independent, fulfilling lives.

“I’ve seen firsthand how far WHFH has come, and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished,” Fleishman reflects. “It’s been an honor to serve alongside so many dedicated individuals, and I know the future of this organization is in good hands.”

As WHFH celebrates more than five decades of service, it recognizes that it is the hard work, vision, and dedication of individuals like Miriam Fleishman and Stuart Mahler that have laid the foundation for the future of affordable housing in West Hartford and beyond.

About West Hartford Fellowship Housing

West Hartford Fellowship Housing is a non-profit provider of affordable housing and related services for the elderly and adults with disabilities. Founded in the 1960s, the organization has grown from a small, volunteer-led initiative to a vibrant, supportive community that helps seniors live independently. With a commitment to providing safe, accessible, and comfortable homes, WHFH continues to play a vital role in the lives of its residents and the greater West Hartford community.

For more information, please contact: Sandra Hawes, 860-595-3837, email: [email protected], website: whfh.org.

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