A Century of Strength: S:US Celebrates Doris Foster’s 100th Birthday
Residents from community homes managed by S:US filled a Brooklyn event space with laughter, music, and joy as they gathered to celebrate a milestone few ever reach: the 100th birthday of Ms. Doris Foster, a beloved S:US resident whose spirit remains as bold today as it was a century ago.
Ms. Doris, who has lived at Bainbridge—an S:US community home for people with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD)—for 10 years, was surrounded by fellow residents, friends, staff, and longtime supporters. The room buzzed with excitement as guests shared stories, snapped photos, and honored a woman known for her impeccable style, love of soap operas, and devotion to pancake breakfasts.
Her favorite colors—vibrant reds and soft pinks—filled the space, perfectly reflecting the personality that has carried her through a life defined by resilience, connection, and joy.
Yvonne, Nate, and Doris.
After guests arrived, they enjoyed brunch while catching up and celebrating together. Melissa DaCosta-England, VP of Residential Services, opened the program by reflecting on Ms. Doris’ journey to S:US from the Federation of Multicultural Program. She introduced Yvonne and Nate, two former staff members who supported Ms. Doris over the years and continue to visit her at Bainbridge. Yvonne, who first worked with Ms. Doris in 1987 and retired from S:US in 2022, shared, “I keep in touch with my former clients on a regular basis. I keep them in my heart. Doris is a special one. She is feisty and has a big personality.”
Nate, Doris, Perry.
Melissa then welcomed Perry Perlmutter, President & CEO, who engaged the crowd with stories of his interactions with Ms. Doris before presenting her with flowers and jewelry. Nefertiti Souter, Bainbridge Program Director, followed by presenting Ms. Doris with a certificate and a birthday card from Willow Baer, Commissioner of NYS Office for People With Developmental Disabilities.
The program concluded with remarks from Nate, who accompanied Ms. Doris throughout the celebration. He shared how she inspired him to take better care of his health after his open-heart surgery three years ago. “After she got a cup of coffee, she said, ‘Let’s go!’ We walked all night long up and down the stairs. Two weeks later, I came back. She took another cup of coffee and said, ‘Let’s go!’ She got me back in shape. I lost 100 lbs. in six months walking up and down those stairs… I want to thank everyone for being here, and the fact that Ms. Doris is 100—that’s a milestone!”
But the day was more than a birthday celebration. It was a testament to the power of stable housing, community, and supportive services in helping people with I/DD live long, fulfilling lives. Through wellness and clinical care, community activities, and daily living support, S:US ensures residents like Ms. Doris can age with dignity while staying connected to the people and routines they love.
We extend our gratitude to Melissa DaCosta-England, Nefertiti Souter, and the dedicated Developmental Disabilities Services staff for their ongoing support of S:US residents.
Ms. Doris’ century of strength reminds us of what’s possible when people receive the care, stability, and community they deserve—and we’re honored to be part of her story.
