OCEAN CITY — Creating Experiences, a gala event, will kick off planned enhancements of shared living and learning spaces at United Methodist Communities at The Shores. The special fundraising gala will occur on Friday, Oct. 12 from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Greate Bay Country Club in Somers Point.
The physical changes are driven by The Shores’ goal to be Creating Experiences for not only their residents, but also for individuals and groups within the Ocean City community. It demonstrates the organization’s mission of compassionately serving in community so that all are free to choose abundant life.
Among the planned enhancements, redesigned common areas and a lobby with a water feature will greet visitors, resembling a town plaza. Comfortable seating and upscale serene décor will further facilitate social engagement. A new addition, the Community Lecture Hall will boast state-of-the-art projector and smartboard technology to enhance presentations, lectures and group meetings. Designed for lifelong learning, this space will benefit residents, associates and local community groups alike.
United Methodist Communities at The Shores shares a long and rich history with the Ocean City and its citizens, spanning over 50 years. As the largest year round employer in Ocean City, United Methodist Communities has always proudly supported Ocean City.
The Town Hall, one of the most frequently used spaces at The Shores, hosts meetings, fitness classes, group activities and religious services that will benefit the entire Ocean City community. Diners from within and outside of The Shores may take advantage of three new dining spaces for meals, snacks, treats or just a cup of coffee.
The expanded Tapestries Memory Care neighborhood will offer residents living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias a larger updated environment with more activity and living space. This works in tandem with Comfort Matters®, a nationally recognized, accredited program built upon the latest science and research-based best practices, enabling people with dementia to live better lives.
Gala honoree Frank Donato serves as Ocean City’s director of finance and director of the Office of Emergency Management. “Frank’s dedication to our city and the well-being of The Shores’ seniors clearly supports our evening’s theme, Creating Experiences. The theme also reflects what The Shores does on a daily basis for residents, their families and the associates who work here,” reflected Jessica Stewart, executive director, United Methodist Communities at The Shores.
Guests at Creating Experiences will have opportunities to bid on silent and live auctions. Sweetwater Corporation is the Lead Event Sponsor. For information on how you can participate, please contact Susan Sharp, vice president philanthropy, United Methodist Communities Foundation, at (732) 731-2122 or ssharp@umcommunities.org.
