WEIL, HELEN KAHN

WEIL, HELEN KAHN (3 Jan. 1902-20 Aug. 1992), pioneer in gerontology, introduced innovations at the MONTEFIORE HOME for the aged with her husband Julius (see WEIL, JULIUS), such as the sheltered workshop, which were later modeled nationwide. The couple founded the Schnurmann House (1968) in SHAKER HEIGHTS, an independent living facility for the elderly, which Helen Weil served as president from 1969 until her death. Weil was born in Germany but received her professional education in the United States, studying at Columbia University and graduating with an undergraduate degree from JOHN CARROLL UNIVERSITY (1943) and a master's in social work from Western Reserve University's School of Applied Social Sciences (1945). She then became Montefiore's social director (her husband served as president from 1941-68), beginning programs such as day care and foster care. Weil also published articles in gerontological journals and taught at WRU (later CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY) as adjunct professor, among the first social workers to teach gerontology. The local chapter of the National Conference of Christians and Jews honored Helen and Julius Weil for outstanding community service; among other awards, the couple was inducted into the Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame.

Weil married Julius Weil in Germany, where they directed a home for delinquent boys. They immigrated to the United States in 1936, fleeing Nazi Germany, and worked in New York City before moving to Cleveland in 1940. The Weils lived in Shaker Heights and had 2 daughters, Naomi Feil and Gabriele Hays. Weil died in MT. SINAI MEDICAL CENTER.

Montefiore Home Records, WRHS.

Julius & Helen Weil Papers, WRHS.