Length of Service: 5 years
San Francisco Region
How did you come to work at On Lok: After years in the hospital setting, I wanted an outpatient role where I could integrate my inpatient knowledge into long-term, community-based care. I had already cared for patients connected to On Lok and saw the difference the program made. Joining felt like the right step. Today, I’m a float physician, moving between centers. Over the past year, I’ve also been called the “office doula” since I covered five maternity leaves.
What do you like most about your job: I enjoy floating between the different centers, each with its own community and personality. - 30th Street: Mission District’s Spanish-speaking community - Powell: Many Chinatown participants - Bush Street: Diverse group and On Lok headquarters - IOA: A unique and special population I’ve learned to love all the centers — it keeps me flexible, adaptable, invigorated, and caffeinated. Most of all, I value working closely with different Primary Care Providers, building friendships across centers.
I like: San Francisco. I grew up in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and came to the U.S. at 18 for college, later staying for medical school and residency. I always hoped to live in California. After spending time in Boston, New York City, and Los Angeles, I’ve come to call San Francisco my home.
I know: On Lok will always provide the best care for our participants and continue to be a lifeline for the community we serve.
I could not do without: money, good public transportation, and a sense of humor (all essential for surviving in San Francisco).
In my free time: I binge-watch Netflix, Hulu, or HBO Max with my husband (choosing just one service feels impossible), take long walks with our Shiba, Gatsby, who usually thinks he’s the one walking me, explore the Bay Area with my husband and our dog, and enjoy weekly films at the Kabuki in Japan Town, picking up sushi along the way.
My superpower is: blending in seamlessly at any On Lok center, adapting quickly, and getting things done—like a chameleon with a to-do list.
By: Henry Tang, Occupational Health Manager
Flu Season is just around the corner. Flu vaccines are highly encouraged to protect yourself, your loved ones, and our seniors. Declaration forms and/or proof of vaccination are due by October 31st. Mark your calendar for these up-coming onsite TB and Flu clinics.
Please remember Flu Vaccine Declarations and TB Clearances are due by October 31, 2023. The People Team will reach out to staff who are due this Fall, and they will provide all of the necessary information.
By: Imani Austin, Assistant Director Program and Operations - Community Day Services
At the heart of the 30th Street Senior Center is Lupe Duran, our Senior Center Program Manager of Activities and currently covering the Operations Manager role. For nearly seven years, she has played a pivotal role in enriching the lives of older adults by welcoming volunteers, coordinating programs, and ensuring that every participant feels a true sense of belonging.
Lupe’s work reflects On Lok’s core values every day. She shows compassion in the care and empathy she extends to seniors, especially those with disabilities and those who may face isolation. She promotes inclusivity by offering culturally affirming and linguistically accessible programming that celebrates the diversity of our community. She demonstrates resourcefulness, collaborating with volunteers on their activity initiatives, adeptly managing them across many roles, and sustaining their motivation and commitment to On Lok. Maintaining engaged volunteers directly benefits our bottom line.
Lupe exemplifies excellence through her dedication and leadership, setting a high standard that makes the center a place where seniors truly thrive. On Lok 30th Street Senior Center is more than just a gathering place—it is a hub of healing, joy, and support. The programs Lupe leads not only bring fun and enrichment but also build social bonds, promote mental wellness, and enhance the overall quality of life for both On Lok participants and community seniors alike.
We are proud to celebrate Lupe as a connector, advocate, and community builder whose impact shines in every smile, story, and shared moment at the center.
Learn more in the San Francisco Examiner’s recent piece highlighting one of the programs Lupe plays a vital role in.
Meal Program Helps Older Adults Stay Healthy and Connected
By: Charlene Elefante, Senior Manager, Community Engagement
Last year, On Lok proudly marched in the Silicon Valley Pride Parade and hosted a booth at the festival for the very first time. We connected with thousands of families and community members—including many wonderful seniors—and shared in the joy of celebration.
This year is extra special as Silicon Valley Pride marks its 50th anniversary, and we’re ready to make an even bigger impact! We invite staff to walk with us in the parade and help represent On Lok at this milestone event. T-shirts will be provided to all staff who join us.
Where: Downtown San Jose When: Saturday, August 31 | 9:00 am – 11:30 am (ending at Plaza César Chávez Park with a festival)
Let’s come together to celebrate Pride, community, and inclusivity—hope to see you there!
If you’d like to participate, please email Charlene Elefante.
Fremont Admin: Sudha Gupta, Caregiver 1; Lingyi Kong, Caregiver 1; Iimin Liu, Caregiver 1
On Lok PACE Gee Center: Cherise Cenon, RN Home Care; Edgar (Freddy) Escobar, Driver; Shu Rong Guan, Kitchen Helper; Alfredo Simball, Driver
On Lok PACE Powell Center: QiuQiu Yan, Caregiver 1; Lai Fong Winson Yip, Caregiver 1
On Lok PACE San Jose Center: Abigail Castaneda Gomez, Caregiver 1