A Fresh Start with Familiar Roots
At Beacon Hill senior living community in Lombard, something is shifting in the rhythm of daily life. The calendar is fuller, the rooms a little livelier, the conversations buzzing with what is coming next. Much of that momentum can be traced to one person, Lifestyles Director Jamee Harkabus.
A native of Wheaton, and resident of Forest Park, Jamee stepped into the role after first joining Beacon Hill as an interim activities director. She had already been part of the Lifespace family at Oak Trace, working with residents across levels of living. When the opportunity opened, it felt like a natural next step. She has been building on that foundation ever since, bringing both structure and spark to the community’s programming.
A Calling Shaped by Experience
Jamee is a certified therapeutic recreation specialist, a path she chose with purpose. Influenced early on by time spent with her cousin who has Down syndrome, she developed a passion for helping people connect, participate, and thrive through meaningful activity. That passion first carried into her work with adults with developmental disabilities, and later into senior living, where she discovered a different kind of energy. The residents she serves today are active, engaged, and eager to be involved, and she found a calling in creating experiences that truly resonate with that spirit.
Leading with Energy and Intention
Today, she oversees a broad lifestyles department that spans independent living and the health center, along with fitness, transportation, and concierge services. It is a team of 20 to 30 people, and Jamee leads it with a hands-on approach. She is just as likely to be planning the next big event as she is to be right there helping it come to life.
“Her creativity and drive are unmatched. Jamee is constantly finding fresh ways to elevate the resident experience. She’s passionate about inspiring residents to live fully and making every day feel special,” said Elijah Heyboer, executive director.
Jamee’s goal is to provide residents with experiences they never expected when they moved in, while building excitement around every program and event. That means a full calendar that stretches into evenings and weekends, with something always happening.
A Calendar That Delivers
On any given day, residents can choose from six to eight programs. There are art classes, writing groups, book clubs, and social gatherings that create opportunities for connection and creativity.
Recent highlights have included a Titanic themed dinner and movie experience with historically inspired menus, a lively Dueling Pianos performance, and a Chico’s fashion show featuring resident models. A Lego Day brought grandparents and grandchildren together to build and laugh side by side, reflecting Jamee’s focus on creating more intergenerational opportunities.
Wellness That Goes Beyond Fitness
Fitness is another cornerstone of the program. Under the guidance of fitness supervisor Danny Winecki, who brings a background in occupational therapy, residents benefit from both expertise and encouragement.
Offerings include water aerobics, pool Pilates, circuit training, chair Zumba, and line dancing, along with one-on-one support. The focus on mobility and functional strength is making a real difference. Recently, one resident shared that his blood pressure has improved since beginning a regular workout routine.
Experiences That Reach Beyond the Community
Monthly outings keep residents engaged with the world beyond Beacon Hill. Trips include museums, wineries, performances, restaurants, and excursions into Chicago. Local favorites like Lilacia Park offer the perfect setting for experiences like chef prepared picnics enjoyed outdoors.
Creating Moments That Matter
All of it reflects a larger vision shaped by Lifespace’s The Lived Experience initiative, which focuses on engagement, choice, and personal fulfillment. Jamee brings that vision to life by creating programs that feel immersive, inclusive, and meaningful.
From candlelight concerts to interactive chef led cooking classes and upcoming events like a Mother’s Day tea, every detail is designed to elevate the experience. At Beacon Hill, the calendar is not just full. It is intentional. And with Jamee Harkabus leading the way, each day offers something more, a chance to connect, to try something new, and to truly enjoy the moment.
Beacon Hill
Beacon Hill is a senior living community in Lombard offering spacious, well- designed residences and a range of services that support independent, maintenance-free living for older adults. As a Life Care Community—formerly known as a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)—Beacon Hill provides a continuum of care, including independent living with access to higher levels of support. The community is owned and operated by Lifespace Communities, a non-profit organization with nearly five decades of experience in senior living. For more information, call 630-620-5850 or visit www.BeaconHillLombard.com
