Frederick Living

Today is National Ageism Awareness Day. At Garden Spot Communities, we are sparking a Pro-Aging Revolution. We believe aging should be celebrated, not stigmatized. We reject the mindset of "can't, shouldn't, or won't" because of age. Instead, we embrace aging as a natural progression that brings wisdom, resilience, and self-discovery. We strive to be part of the change, fostering new language, attitudes, and mindsets about aging. We focus on whole-person well-being, where healthcare supports living and vibrant communities thrive. Aging is no longer a liability but an opportunity to enrich lives, communities and society. At Garden Spot Communities, we encourage relationship building between residents and team members, and in doing that, we're redefining aging—not to defy it, but to embrace it with purpose, passion, and impact. Join us in celebrating the power of aging! #AgeismAwarenessDay #TalkAboutAgeism #SparkAProAgingRevolution

Today, we say goodbye to an amazing team member who has served hundreds of residents over her 16 year tenure. Amanda Brandis began her time as a CNA in Cedarwood Health Center, followed by several years as lead receptionist. For the last two years, she has been our Volunteer Coordinator, planning and organizing community events, kickstarting the re-opening of the gift shop, and leading our team of resident and community volunteers. On days like this, we are thankful for our many dedicated team members who serve our residents and each other with commitment and compassion. The love residents have for Amanda was evident. While we are sad to see Amanda go, we are glad that she is excited about a new chapter in her career.

The quote from Debbie Allen over the doorway to the Kaleidoscope Performing Arts Center at Ursinus College says, "But out of limitations comes creativity." These members of the "Wisdom Course" at Frederick Living would likely agree. Over several months, we have written (and re-written) narratives in which we've recollected some of the stories and experiences of our lives and drawn out the wisdom and lessons learned. We've looked at the difficulties and joys of the past that have shaped who we are today and gained insights for the future. So last week as we prepared to share our stories with students, some of the course participants travelled to the Ursinus campus for introductions. The Wisdom Course, offered for the first time at Frederick Living, was created several years ago by Garden Spot Communities in conjunction with Elizabethtown College. We are excited to now establish this intergenerational program between Frederick Living and Ursinus College as we learn from each other and establish new friendships throughout the fall semester.

We are so proud of our first class of graduates from a new CNA certification program held in partnership with Peter Becker Community. These three women completed 125 hours of classroom and clinical training and passed two tests to qualify for certification. We are excited to have these skilled professionals working in the personal care and skilled levels of our community. A celebration attended by team members and board representatives was in order! If you or anyone you know is looking to join a supportive team environment where you can pursue your career goals, please visit us during our Job Fair on Wednesday, September 25 from 11am to 4 pm. Go to https://lnkd.in/eeCSUmky to pre-register. Interviews will take place on the spot. Can't wait to meet you!

Yesterday, our team had the opportunity to learn some safety tips from our Safety Coach, Joe Caracci, founder and CEO of Monarch Pathways. Joe spoke in particular about protecting our backs while working and wearing proper footwear. The healthcare industry typically tops the charts in non-fatal workplace injuries, so thanks Joe for helping us stay safe.

Yesterday, Executive Director Mike Hagarty and Director of Residential Life Emily Messner hosted our first "New Resident" breakfast in the beautiful Magnolia dining area. It was an opportunity for residents who had moved into the community within the last several months to connect with some of our team and each other. Sharing stories, asking questions, making new friends and enjoying delicious food--it could not have been a better experience. #seniorliving #newfriends

Are you seeking a position in a supportive environment that also offers competitive wages and great benefits? Frederick Living is a community committed to getting to know you and helping you achieve your career goals and vision for the future. Get to know us at our upcoming Job Fair on September 25. Stop in anytime from 11 am to 4 pm or sign up for an appointment using the QR code below. We can't wait to meet you!

Happy Labor Day to our incredible Frederick Living team! Your dedication brings vitality and joy to residents’ lives every day. Thank you for creating such a vibrant and caring community. #laborday #team

Today marks the 128th anniversary of the founding of Frederick Living - what was then known as the Mennonite Home for the Aged. Rev. N. B. Grubb founded the home for retired ministers in the Mennonite community who did not have family to care for them as they aged. One year later, the building, purchased for $1,521.50, housed five individuals. Today, our community has grown to include cottages, apartments, dining venues, a gift shop, walking path and much more. Approximately 200 team members support over 300 residents in a vibrant and friendly community committed to providing abundant opportunities for purposeful living. We are thankful for our founder, the Mennonite church community who supported his vision and the hard work and dedication of all those who made Frederick Living what it is today. 

Frederick Living's Body Shop is excited to share our new balance tool for residents. And we are thankful for the expertise and care of our fitness instructors from Symbria Wellbeing. Take a look.