Meet Michael McCarthy: Executive Director of Leonard Florence Center for Living (LFCL)
It takes a special person to oversee the day-to-day activities at the Leonard Florence Center and Mike McCarthy is just the person for the job. It is a position he thoroughly enjoys. As he says, “The LFCL Green House model is so unique. It genuinely feels like a home – to me and to our residents.”
After living in Tampa, FL with his wife Jaclyn and daughters Riley (age 8) and Teegan (age 7), the McCarthy family moved to Reading, Massachusetts. They are excited to be living in the Greater Boston area. Jaclyn works for Boston Scientific as a medical device sales rep, specializing in electrophysiology, and the girls are flourishing in school and meeting new friends. Riley loves playing softball and Teagan enjoys gymnastics.
Mike holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of New England in Biddeford, Maine. Originally his career centered upon Pediatric Occupational Therapy; he worked at a children’s hospital for several years. He then switched to geriatric care, becoming the Director of Rehab for a 180-bed skilled nursing and rehab facility. After a short time, Mike was promoted to Regional Director of Operations, which allowed him to transition to a nursing home Administrator position. Mike will soon be celebrating his one-year anniversary at LFCL.
Throughout the past months, Mike has led his team through challenging times in relation to COVID-19. He so proud of his staff! “I see my staff going above and beyond for our residents every single day,” said Mike. “From getting a resident’s favorite take-out food to surprising a resident with fresh flowers to making sure a resident FaceTimes with their loved ones, they are truly caring and compassionate.”
He is equally in awe of the LFCL residents and their families. “They exhibit tremendous strength and courage on a daily basis,” said Mike. “Moreover, it’s heartwarming to see the way they support each other. That’s really what makes this Center so very special.”
As passionate as Mike is about work, he also makes his family a priority. “I really enjoy spending time with my family,” enthuses Mike. They can often be found at their beach house in Maine, hiking, biking or simply being together. He is an avid basketball fan — in addition to being a very talented player.
Although Mike lived in Florida for many years, he grew up in Massachusetts, moving to Maine for his high school years. Reflecting upon returning to New England and to the Leonard Florence Center for Living, Mike doesn’t even hesitate. “It feels great to be home.”
