For more than 11 years, Tom Samolinski has been a cornerstone of warmth and hospitality at The Selfhelp Home. What began as a role in Assisted Living evolved into a position that truly embodies our commitment to making every resident and visitor feel welcome, cared for, and at home.
We sat down with Tom to talk about his journey, his love for our community, and even his pepper jelly hobby that’s become a favorite among friends and colleagues.
Can you tell us a little about yourself and how long you’ve been at The Selfhelp Home?
I’ve been at The Selfhelp Home almost 11 years. I started off as a certified nursing assistant in our Assisted Living and Independent Living departments. About eight years ago, the executive director approached me and asked if I’d like to manage the front desk.
So I took over managing the front desk!
Was that a big change going from the medical side of things to a more operational role?
Yes, it was more managerial, more supervisory. But it was a nice change. I was ready for it. Two years ago, I turned 65 and thought I was supposed to retire, so I wrote a letter of resignation. Then I got a call from Jo Reizner on the board who said, “Tom, have we done something wrong?”
I told her no, I just thought that’s what you do when you turn 65!
She said, “No, no. We want you to stay on. We’d like you to be an ambassador for the home.”
So we talked about what that role would look like, and now I work Friday mornings at the front desk, and Saturday and Sunday as Manager on Duty.
I love being here. I believe The Selfhelp Home is a worthy place to be. To have a presence here on the weekend — as someone who cares and is invested in the facility and its mission — that’s a real honor for me.
When people walk through the front doors, what do you want them to feel?
I want them to feel really welcomed. A warm welcome that says we care and that we’re glad they’re here. Not a distracted “hello” from someone on their phone, but genuine attention.
As Manager on Duty on the weekend, I’m not tethered to the front desk, so I can walk around and meet new people, especially in our rehab department. On weekends, people can feel lonely — especially if they’re new. Sometimes they just need someone to know that someone cares. I really enjoy doing that.
I end up leaving here not tired, but feeling enriched. That I’ve taken more than I’ve given.
Is there a piece of wisdom from a resident that’s stuck with you over the years?
I’ve gotten so much from the residents. Be good to yourself. Take care of yourself. Trust yourself.
Those have all been helpful.
Your signature ties have become somewhat famous around here! How did that start?
When I started at the front desk, we wanted to improve the look a bit — white shirt, scarf, that sort of thing. I decided to start wearing ties, and I’ve been wearing them ever since.
It’s become a great conversation starter, especially with residents who have dementia or memory challenges. I have ties with frogs, dogs, birthday cakes, and musical notes. They help spark conversation and connection.
I really enjoy being with our residents who have memory issues, and I’ve found that my ties can help them engage. They’ll comment on the colors or the designs, and we can talk about them together.
We also heard you’re a bit of a hot sauce and jelly enthusiast. Tell us about that!
I really enjoy cooking and baking. Several years ago, a neighbor taught me how to make jams and jellies, and one of her recipes was a pepper jelly. I started experimenting with different peppers — orange, yellow, green jalapeño, red — and came up with a beautiful orange color and a nice balance of sweet and heat.
It’s great on cheese and crackers, stir-fried vegetables, chicken, or salmon.
Mostly I just give it away in little jars. My husband and I also harvest Concord grapes from a vine we found in an alley and make grape jelly every year. It’s a fun little hobby.
You’ve seen The Selfhelp Home evolve over the years. What stands out most to you about how it’s grown?
Each executive director has been different, and that’s been good. When I started, our community was made up mostly of German Jews. Now it’s much more diverse — “everybody’s a Jew,” as I like to say.
Our traditions have evolved too. Shabbat used to be very formal, with specific dress codes, but now it’s a bit more casual because that’s how our population is. What matters most is being present. That’s what’s truly important.
It’s been wonderful seeing how our new Executive Director, Mark, has brought fresh vision and leadership. He’s assembled a great team and is guiding us into the future — updating systems, improving the physical space, and carrying on the mission that makes this place so special.
Any final thoughts on what The Selfhelp Home means to you?
I think it’s important that since our residents are here and present, the least I can do is be here and present too. It’s an honor to be part of this place.
From his friendly greetings at the front desk to his weekend check-ins with residents and his trademark whimsical ties, Tom brings warmth and humanity to everything he does. His dedication embodies what makes The Selfhelp Home so special.
Thank you, Tom, for everything you do to make our home brighter every day.