Pioneering “Groundbreaking” Design in Senior Living: JCHC Honors DIG Architecture

NEW BRUNSWICK / LIVINGSTON, NJ [October 20, 2026] – In recognition of transformative, decades-long impact on senior living environments, DIG Architecture (DIG) has been honored by The Jewish Community Housing Corporation of Metropolitan New Jersey (JCHC) at its 2026 Annual Gala. A steadfast advocate and design creator of groundbreaking architecture for older adults throughout its history, DIG is being celebrated for redefining how purposefully designed physical spaces support aging populations. 

Co-Founded by Jeff Venezia, CEO; Vince Myers, President and Rich Alderiso, COO, the firm views design not as physical construction, but as a vital tool to foster independence, dignity and vibrant community connection for senior residents. DIG's long-time philanthropic work and partnership alongside JCHC reflect a shared conviction that senior environments must continually evolve to meet the complex care, memory support, and lifestyle needs of the aging population. 

“It is a deep honor for DIG to be recognized by the Jewish Community Housing Corporation, an organization whose commitment to providing dignity, safety and vibrant community for older adults closely aligns with our core mission,” said Myers, who is principal-in-charge of the Senior Living Studio. “Senior living architecture is about far more than bricks and mortar. It is about creating spaces that foster connection, independence and the most appropriate care for our senior population.” 

For nearly 10 years, DIG has partnered with JCHC and Lester Senior Living management to reimagine its senior living spaces. Most recently, DIG designed a sweeping, multi-phase renovation of over 20,000 square feet across the Heller Independent Living and Weston Assisted Living wings at Lester Senior Living's Whippany, N.J., campus.  

The project introduced interactive gathering spaces, including a new café, reading room, refurbished dining room, state-of-the-art cinema theater with concession area and a self-contained memory care unit. The project earned DIG and Lester Senior Living a “Best Non-Profit Project” award for the MidAtlantic Region. 

Further extending its civic and community-space portfolio, DIG was named Architect-of-Record for the new 80,000-SF Ewing Township Senior & Community Center (ESCC), doubling the size of the original structure damaged by a 2022 fire. Designed as a vibrant hub for recreational, social and wellness programming, the new ESCC reflects DIG's commitment to community engagement and historical preservation. Additionally, the firm also oversaw the restoration of its adjacent, historically significant Louis I. Kahn-designed bath house. 

Held annually, the JCHC 2026 Gala celebrates the organization's ongoing mission to enrich the lives of seniors through quality housing and supportive services. DIG was honored alongside distinguished community leaders Assemblywoman Dr. Rosy Bagolie (NJ 27th Legislative District), a Jewish Latina who champions educational and community advancements statewide, and the WILF Foundation, representing three generations of community philanthropists dedicated to advancing Jewish communal life and supporting vulnerable populations across housing, education, health and social services for over 60 years. 

The evening's keynote address was delivered by Katie Smith Sloan, CEO of LeadingAge and Executive Director of the Global Aging Network, a globally recognized advocate for aging services and senior care innovation.  

In addition to the reception and awards presentation, the evening program included a special performance by the JCHC Resident Choir. All proceeds from the gala directly support financial assistance programs and enhanced quality-of-life enrichment for JCHC senior residents. 

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About DIG Architecture 
DIG Architecture is an award-winning, certified-MBE architecture, interior design and environmental graphics firm with offices in New Jersey, Pennsylvania and New York. Over two decades, the firm has grown into one of the region's largest majority Black-owned architecture and design practices, serving public- and private-sector clients across the education, civic, transportation, healthcare and senior living sectors. Driven by one instinct – to go deeper – DIG uncovers potential, challenges convention, and expands what's possible through design. 

About The Jewish Community Housing Corporation of Metropolitan New Jersey (JCHC) 
The Jewish Community Housing Corporation of Metropolitan New Jersey is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing high-quality, affordable, and market-rate housing and supportive services for seniors. Guided by Jewish values of compassion, respect, and community, JCHC creates welcoming environments where older adults can age with dignity and independence. For more information, visit [www.jchcorp.org].