Everything We Do is a Relationship.

Our Executive Directors at American House Village and Freedom Place Rochester have a lot in common. Not only do they both serve our American House seniors on the same campus, they build long-lasting relationships with their residents and families. Get to know these two kindhearted, empathetic and caring individuals and you’ll learn why.

MEGAN: SENIORS ARE OUR GUIDING LIGHT.
For Megan Mirza, every interaction matters. Talk to her and it’s as if you’re the only person in the world. As an ED at American House Village, her compassion is evident. She truly cares about people. She’s observant and a great listener. "People are not just a moment in time. They shape us, and we shape them.”

Megan’s journey in senior living began when she accepted a position at Jewish Senior Life in West Bloomfield. As Director of the Center for Elder Abuse Prevention, she ran the entire program—educational, clinical, investigative, as well as sheltering, housing and medical. The role reinforced her commitment to protecting those that are most vulnerable.

When that program ended, another door opened—an Executive Director position at American House West Bloomfield. She applied and became that community’s longest-serving ED in a decade.

Megan built a stellar reputation, earning admiration from families and team members. To this day, she receives messages from past residents’ families, some of whom still call her a lifelong friend. “I read those testimonials and, honestly, they make me cry,” said Megan. This empathy is central to who she is—serving others isn’t just her career; it defines her soul.

Megan’s success story led her back to American House this year, and even after only eight months at Village, her impact is clear.

"I live by my values and lead by example,” said Megan. “At American House, I was trained by the best. I know what needs to be done, and you only have to tell me something once. If you have to tell me twice, we have a communication problem.”

Caregiving is in Megan’s DNA. Growing up in a multi-generational home, she developed a deep understanding and respect for seniors.

“When you're the child of immigrants, you’re an automatic caregiver. At nine years old, my dad said, ‘She’s the only one allowed to answer the phone.’” Having grandparents who shared the family duplex also shaped Megan’s compassion.

“Seniors are the wisdom in the world. They are our guiding light, and we continue the legacy of our seniors in our own lives.”

JANET: IT’S ALL ABOUT THE RESIDENTS.
During the time Janet Difazio was working as a medic, her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Very quickly, Janet’s focus switched, as did her career. To the benefit of so many, memory care became her path. Janet has spent 25 years working with individuals and families impacted by various forms of dementia. She was a facilitator with the Alzheimer’s Association when she heard of an Executive Director opening at Freedom Place Rochester Hills. Impressed with what she saw, Janet said, “In my opinion, American House is all about the residents.”

The community is currently dedicated to the support and care of 33 residents, and Janet is part of each of their lives. “Here, everyone is just who they are, and we are on their journey with them,” said Janet. “I just love our residents. If I could take all these residents home with me, I would,” she laughs.

Driven by her caring nature, Janet wants to know everything about her residents and families. “It’s nice to plant your feet down and let families know we’re here, our doors are open,” she said. “They come in, we talk, we support, and if there are things we need to improve, we want to know.”

Janet maintains a spirit of inclusivity with residents and families, making everyone feel at home. “Families come here to be with their loved one, everyone is treated like family.” At monthly family meetings and dinners, there is education, creativity and support, where families share and get involved.

Janet’s relationships with the families are a fundamental part of the care she provides. “I’m part of their life, I care for their mom or dad,” she said. Years can go by, and they keep in touch, meet for lunch. She’s even attended family weddings.

While she’s only been at Freedom Place since December, Janet is already building all-important relationships. She’s an excellent Executive Director who doesn’t care for titles. “Families know I’m just Janet, and I’m here to help.”

If there is one thing Janet hopes her families take away with them it is this—someone is always at the other end of the phone.

“We’re going to take care of Mom and Dad. We’re here 24/7. If you want to call, we’re going to answer.”