A Message for Community Support

My grandmother was living in the memory care neighborhood of a senior care community. It was convenient for me to see her before and after work. She had dementia and would become very confused. On occasion, she would refuse to take her medicine.

Despite the struggles the staff faced, they always treated her with love and respect.

While I knew they had a deep relationship with my grandmother, the extent of that relationship wouldn’t be clear to me until the last few days of her life. At the end of her life, those employees stopped by her room to say their goodbyes, just like family. Many sat with us, shared stories, prayed with us and were overcome with grief. Through this experience, I could see that despite her stubbornness and confusion, she had truly become a member of their family, too.

When I toured Fairhaven Community three years ago, meeting the staff and watching their interactions with the residents reminded me of the connection between care staff and my grandmother.

Over the last few years, I have been reminded of my grandmother many times as I visit various United Church Homes communities. There is something truly special about United Church Homes and the staff! It’s clearly something that United Church Homes has built as a part of its culture that is not easily replicated. A belief in a true sense of community, where rising tides raise all ships, is evident!

In my work with Thompson & Associates, I meet with the friends and supporters of United Church Homes and have been able to hear so many stories of the impact United Church Homes has had on them and their families. I am proud to help these individuals and families create a legacy that cares for their families and supports the causes that are near and dear to their hearts.

For many people who wish to support the mission of a charitable organization like United Church Homes, simple legacy gifts can be created by adding specific language to your will, designating the charity or charities as a beneficiary of a life insurance policy or IRA or redirecting assets to be transferred upon death. United Church Homes’ support of this complimentary process is just one more way it is continuing to build a strong sense of community.

Thompson & Associates
Values-Based Estate Planning

Paul Grassman of Thompson & AssociatesUnited Church Homes is pleased to offer our friends and supporters a complimentary, values-based estate planning service from an expert estate planning advisor. Paul Grassmann, from Thompson & Associates, visits Ohio monthly to meet with and assist families or individuals as they navigate through various practical, emotional, and legal issues.

If you are interested in learning more about this service, or scheduling an appointment with Paul, please contact Gloria Hurwitz, vice president of advancement at ghurwitz@uchinc.org or 740.751.8702.