The Freeman Family:
A Century of Service and Impact

For more than 100 years, the Freeman family has helped shape The New Jewish Home through visionary leadership, innovation, and deep compassion for older adults.
 
Charles H. Freeman joined the Board in the 1920s and became President in 1935. A pioneer in elder care and a founder of Federation (now UJA-Federation), Charles transformed the Home by securing its first public funding and introducing advancements like physical therapy and psychiatry. Under his leadership, the Home launched home health care in 1940—decades ahead of national programs.
 
John L. Freeman joined the Board in 1960 and became President in 1981. A Harvard and Columbia Law graduate, John spent over 50 years as a distinguished attorney and led the organization through a period of growth and modernization. He championed diversity, brought women onto the Board, and in 1985 helped establish the nation’s first geriatric teaching program with the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai—still thriving today.
 
David J. Freeman, has served on the Board since 1988. A leading environmental attorney with more than 50 years of experience, David played a key role in resolving complex environmental issues for the organization. As Co-Chair of the Governance & Nominating Committee and active member of multiple other committees, he continues to guide strategic efforts. In 2006, the family established the Freeman Music Endowment Fund at the Westchester campus, which funds music therapy programs and year-round concerts to enrich residents’ lives.