Willow - Fall 2025

Seeing the Future, Finding Home pg. 3

willow Fall 2025

A W I L L OW VA L L E Y C O M M U N I T I E S P U B L I C AT I O N

“There’s so much to discover here.”

It is my pleasure to welcome you to this issue of Willow

Lancaster, redefining what it means to live well after 55. The

magazine, my first as President and CEO of Willow Valley

Marlin and Doris Thomas Memory Center, shaped by global

Communities. Like many of our 2,600 Residents who have

best practices, will lead the nation toward a new way to view,

relocated from 42 states, I have been deeply impressed by

experience, and embrace dementia.

Lancaster’s vibrancy and the exceptional lifestyle offered here. It’s easy to see why Newsweek named Willow Valley Communities the No. 2 Continuing Care Retirement

At Willow Valley Communities, we believe life after 55 is not a season of diminished opportunities, but one of enrichment and possibility. In every residence we design, every amenity

Community in the nation and No. 1 in Pennsylvania.

we offer, and every program we create, we affirm that this

As I begin this journey, my focus is on listening, connecting,

chapter of life should be defined by vitality, growth, and

and discovering what makes Willow Valley Communities

joy. I am deeply committed to continuing this tradition,

so extraordinary. By building strong relationships with

ensuring that Residents experience a lifestyle that is not only

Residents, Team Members, and the greater Lancaster

sustained but elevated for generations to come.

community, we can ensure that the culture that makes this organization so extraordinary continues to thrive.

There is so much to discover here, and I look forward to celebrating with each of you as we continue a Life Lived

I am grateful for the visionary leadership of my predecessor, John Swanson. For nearly 40 years, John boldly advanced innovation and growth, creating a nationally recognized

Forward — together.

Warmest regards,

community that leads with excellence. His courage to imagine new possibilities has paved a clear path for our future, and I am honored to carry that vision forward.

That future is already taking shape. The SouthPointe

Lisa H. Hawthorne

expansion marks an exciting new chapter on our campus.

President & CEO

Mosaic will bring a distinctive urban lifestyle to the heart of

Willow Valley Communities

1

WILLOW

Fall 2025

content s

FALL 2025

SEEING THE FUTURE, FINDING HOME | 3 For the Dolans, a Willow Valley Communities Open House made a big decision an easy one.

THE TIP TONS: FOUR SIBLINGS, ONE COMMUNITY | 5 Learn why — after a lifetime of moving from place to place — the Tipton siblings all decided to put down roots at Willow Valley Communities.

WILLOW VALLEY COMMUNITIES LOVES LANCASTER! | 7 Residents and Team Members are proud to support the city that has captured our hearts.

A LASTING LEGACY IN SPIRIT & STEEL | 9 Our recent Beam Signing Ceremony marked another milestone for the Marlin and Doris Thomas Memory Center — the future of memory care at Willow Valley Communities.

HONORING WWII HEROES BY PRESERVING HISTORY | 11 Willow Valley Communities was honored to host Stephen Watson of The National WWII Museum this fall, as part of a moving event dedicated to our nation’s WWII heroes.

A NIGHT OF CELEBRATION HONORING OUR VISIONARIES — MARLIN THOMAS & JOHN SWANSON | 13 On a recent evening filled with tributes, Willow Valley Communities celebrated the vision and service of Founder Marlin Thomas and longtime President & CEO John Swanson.

DICK COYNE: RAPPELLING FOR A CAUSE | 15 Resident Dick Coyne recently raised over $4,000 by dropping 10 stories down the side of a building! Read how he faced his fears to support Lancaster nonprofit VisionCorps.

RESIDENTS INVEST IN TEAM MEMBER DREAMS | 17 Through scholarships, Residents give back to the Team Members who give them so much.

WillowValleyCommunities.org

WILLOW

2

SEEING THE FUTURE, FINDING HOME: HOW AN EASYGOING OPEN HOUSE LED TO A BIG LIFE DECISION For Jim and Jane Dolan of Berwyn, Pennsylvania,

“It was amazing to see a true replica,” said Jim. “We could

finding the right 55+ community wasn’t just about

walk through, picture our furniture, imagine our daily

square footage — it was about lifestyle, peace of mind,

lives there.”

and a clear vision for the future. After touring five different communities, they walked into a Mosaic Open House, and something clicked.

A digital display helped them explore available floor plans and views, while a scale model of the entire Mosaic building offered a clear sense of how the building fits into

“We knew right away,” Jim recalled. “Mosaic felt different.

It felt like us.”

Lancaster City’s vibrant Market District.

Jane noted how easy the experience was from the start.

The Dolans’ first experience with Mosaic came at Willow

“There was no pressure, just warm welcomes and

Valley Communities’ Welcome Center, through a fully

thoughtful answers to every question,” she said.

furnished model residence that reflected the elegant, elevated lifestyle Willow Valley is known for, right down to the simulated 15th-floor views.

3

The Dolans quickly chose their new home: an 1,800-square-foot residence on the 10th floor. Now,

WILLOW

Fall 2025

as future Mosaic Residents, they’re enjoying the most meaningful part of the experience — the people.

“We’re already getting to know our neighbors,” said Jane.

“It’s starting to feel like home.”

For the Dolans, Mosaic offers more than just stunning

We’re already getting to know our neighbors. It’s starting to feel like home.

views and exceptional amenities — it’s the beginning of a brand-new chapter, with a strong connection to the life they’ve loved in Chester County.

“I went to Lancaster Central Market and was amazed,” Jim shared. “It reminded me of the Lancaster County Farmers Market in Wayne, even some of the same vendors.

It felt familiar and exciting all at once.”

Jane Dolan, Future Mosaic Resident

Their advice for others? “Go to the Open House. Take a look. It’s relaxed, it’s welcoming, and who knows? You might just find your future, too.”

WillowValleyCommunities.org

WILLOW

4

FOUR SIBLINGS, ONE COMMUNITY: WHY THE TIPTONS ALL CHOSE WILLOW VALLEY COMMUNITIES

The Tipton siblings all live at Willow Valley Communities: (L–R) Pat Longley, Jet Tipton, Priscilla O’Donnell, and Abigail Tipton.

When four siblings, each with their own rich and

Abby Tipton was the trailblazer. “I was the first here,” she

independent life story, choose to settle in the same

says with a proud smile. A former teacher and editorial

continuing care retirement community, it says

researcher at National Geographic, Abby has always done

something extraordinary — not just about their bond,

her homework. “Research was in my blood, so I started

but about the special place they now call home:

looking all up and down the East Coast. But I kept coming

Willow Valley Communities.

back to Willow Valley because of the campus, the amenities and everybody I met was so nice... and the price was great

Meet the Tiptons: Jet, Pat, Abby, and Priscilla. Growing

compared to other communities. So, I kept coming back to

up in a military family with a Navy father, the Tiptons lived all across the map: New Jersey, Virginia, Washington

Willow Valley for several years.”

D.C., Maryland, Peru, Pennsylvania, and Ohio. So, when

Abby joined the waitlist and patiently waited six years for

people ask, “Where are you from?” the siblings just laugh.

her turn, even though she was only in her early 60s at the

Home was never a fixed location; it was wherever they were

time. “My friends were always saying, ‘Why are you doing

together. And now, that place is Willow Valley.

this? It’s too early for you,’” she recalls. Still, Abby was determined to lock in her spot as early as possible. “I knew

5

WILLOW

Fall 2025

it was popular, and I didn’t want to miss my chance.”

In fact, Lifecare was a critical factor in the decision process

Abby’s move was soon followed by her older brother, Jet. A former Navy jet pilot who flew missions in Vietnam before transitioning to a career as a builder, Jet appreciated Willow Valley Communities’ thoughtful design and craftsmanship.

for all the siblings. Willow Valley’s unique offering of Type A Lifecare, a comprehensive plan that covers future long-term care without an increase to the monthly service fee because of that need, was a game-changer for the Tiptons.

“He liked Willow Valley. He thought the residences were

“We saw what a good model it was when our parents moved

great, and his being a builder, that reassured me,” Abby

to a CCRC in Virginia,” Abby explains. “For us as their kids,

says. “He also valued the active lifestyle and warm sense

it made our lives easier. They told us it was a gift to us, and

of community.”

it was.” Now, the Tiptons are passing that same peace of mind on to their own children. With predictable expenses, no financial surprises, and the freedom to travel without worry — “lock and leave,” as they call it — they’re free to focus on what matters most. For a family that’s spent much of their lives in motion, that freedom is priceless.

I kept coming back to Willow Valley because of the campus and the amenities… Everybody I met was so nice… and the price was great compared to other communities.

Even more priceless is the togetherness they’ve rediscovered.

Though each sibling has their own residence and routine — one might be spotted at a fitness class, another joining a book club, and yet another enjoying coffee after a walk around campus — they gather often for dinners, birthdays, and holidays. And beyond their own family, they’ve found something equally precious at Willow Valley: a community.

They describe it as “an extended family,” filled with caring Team Members and fellow Residents who are there for them at every turn. It’s a place where neighbors become friends

Abby Tipton, Willow Valley Communities Resident

and friends become family — exactly the kind of bond the Tiptons have always treasured.

As Priscilla prepares to join her siblings, the Tipton family circle grows even stronger, united not just by blood, but by

Next came Pat, another educator and pre-law advisor. She had explored other communities, but after a few visits to see

the shared belief that the best years are not behind them, but right here, together, at Willow Valley Communities.

Abby in her new home in Lancaster County, Pat was sold.

Willow Valley isn’t just where the Tiptons live — it’s where

That sweet spot — close to vibrant city life, yet set apart

they’ve planted roots for this next meaningful chapter. A

in peaceful, beautifully maintained surroundings — was

place that honors their independence, their legacy, and their

one of Willow Valley Communities’ biggest draws for her.

lifelong love of family. After a life spent living around the

Compared to other communities she had considered, the

world, the Tiptons have finally come home.

difference was “night and day.”

This fall, Priscilla, the youngest sibling and former Chief Human Resources Officer of ATPCO, will become the fourth Tipton to join Willow Valley Communities. For her, the decision was easy. “I didn’t even need to look at any other communities,” Priscilla says, “because they did all the research for me!” With her siblings already happily settled at Willow Valley, she can’t wait to move in — not just to be close to family, but to lock in the peace of mind that comes with Lifecare.

WillowValleyCommunities.org

WILLOW

6

WILLOW VALLEY COMMUNITIES LOVES LANCASTER! A CITY THAT CAPTURES HEARTS — AND INSPIRES US TO GIVE BACK

A luncheon celebration at Southern Market followed the placement of three Witness Stones in Penn Square. (L-R) McCaskey student Izzy Alagbe; Chris Ballentine, Community Relations Manager, Willow Valley Communities; Historic Rock Ford volunteer Pamela Stoner; and Lauren A. Renehan, Executive Director, Willow Valley Communities Charitable Foundation.

For more than 40 years, Willow Valley Communities has

Our City, Our Cause

called Lancaster home. And after all this time, we’re still

At Willow Valley Communities, we believe that love is best

falling in love with this remarkable city every day.

shown through action. That’s why our organization, and the

Lancaster is known for its charm, its history, its vibrancy, its culture, and its deep sense of community. But it’s more than

individuals who make it so special, actively support initiatives that strengthen Lancaster’s vitality, inclusiveness, and future.

all that. It’s a place where people come together to create

Together with our Residents and Team Members, we’re proud

something greater. That’s why Willow Valley Communities

to support and sponsor:

has made it our mission not just to be in Lancaster, but to be a proud and passionate part of it.

y

The Witness Stones Project, honoring enslaved individuals and advancing historical truth and equity.

With 2,600 Residents from more than 40 states, Willow

y

Valley represents a beautiful cross-section of the country.

Residents and Team Members run united in support

Many of our Residents arrived here without knowing much

of racial justice.

about Lancaster or having any sort of connection to it. But y

after a single visit, they were captivated. And true to the

Lancaster’s Race Against Racism, where our

The VisionCorps Eye Drop, where Willow Valley

Willow Valley spirit, they didn’t just settle in: They jumped

Residents raise thousands to support those with

in. They got involved. And they gave back.

vision loss.

7

WILLOW

Fall 2025

y

y

y

The School District of Lancaster, through impactful

residential community, will soon rise 20 stories high at the

efforts like Sneakers for School, Cornhole for a Cause,

northwest corner of South Queen and West Vine streets,

Suitcases for School, and the College Send-Off Event,

bringing elegant, modern living for active adults to the heart

which help students feel confident, equipped, and

of Lancaster City and continuing our legacy of innovation,

cared for.

excellence, and engagement.

The Fulton Theatre, originally built in 1852 and one of

A Love That Lasts

Lancaster’s oldest, most treasured cultural gems, bringing

We often say that we’re a community with a purpose, and

large-scale productions, musicals, and studio plays to the

that purpose is reflected in how we care for each other and for

local community.

the city we love. Lancaster isn’t just where we’re located. It’s where our hearts are.

Music for Everyone, including a specially designed public piano gifted by Willow Valley Communities.

y

To our Residents, to our partners, and to the people of

LancasterHistory and the Thaddeus Stevens & Lydia Hamilton Smith Center for History and Democracy,

such a special place. We’re honored to walk alongside you and to build a future that shines even brighter.

preserving the stories that shaped our city. y

Lancaster who inspire us: Thank you for making this city

The YWCA’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration, where we donate books that inspire young minds and honor Dr. King’s legacy.

y

The Lancaster Symphony Orchestra, bringing worldclass music to our community.

y

The Salvation Army’s Coats for Kids program, supported by the talented Willow Valley Loomers, who knit warm hats and mittens for children each winter.

y

CASA, providing a qualified and compassionate courtappointed volunteer advocate to every child who is

Willow Valley Communities has made it our mission not just to be in Lancaster, but to be a proud and passionate part of it.

abused and neglected, ensuring the fundamental human right of having a safe, nurturing, and permanent home.

More Than Neighbors Beyond our formal partnerships and sponsorships, there’s a quieter — but no less powerful — kind of impact happening every day with Residents volunteering at local hospitals, libraries, and schools. Serving organizations like Meals on Wheels, Church World Service, and the Lancaster Public Library, they mentor students, clean up neighborhoods, and lend their skills, time, and compassion wherever it’s needed.

Transforming the Southern Gateway One of our most visible expressions of love for Lancaster is the revitalization of an iconic local landmark — Southern Market. Once a farmers market, this historic building, built in 1888, needed a new purpose. It has been reimagined

by Willow Valley Communities as a thriving food hall, entrepreneurial hub, and beloved gathering place for the Lancaster community. Today, it stands as a fun, social symbol of creativity, inclusiveness, and community pride.

And just steps away, a new vision is coming to life: Mosaic

by Willow Valley Communities, our next-generation 55+

WillowValleyCommunities.org

WILLOW

8

Doris and Marlin Thomas (center) pose with their two daughters and their husbands: (L–R) Blaise Holzbauer, Sheryl Holzbauer, Diane Poillon, and Richard Poillon.

A LASTING LEGACY IN STEEL & SPIRIT: BEAM SIGNING CELEBRATES THE MARLIN & DORIS THOMAS MEMORY CENTER In a heartfelt celebration of vision, compassion, and

comfort, and care, not just for Residents, but for families and

progress, the Willow Valley Communities Charitable

Team Members as well.”

Foundation recently hosted a Beam Signing Ceremony for the Marlin and Doris Thomas Memory Center. Held at the Cultural Center, the event marked a major milestone in the creation of what will be one of the most innovative

a unique, village-style living environment that promotes autonomy, familiarity, and wellness across all domains: social, mental, physical, environmental, and civic. Campus

and compassionate memory care environments in the

life will mirror daily living, with Residents able to shop,

United States.

cook, garden, join clubs, and socialize, reducing the stress of

Residents, Team Members, and special guests gathered to add their signatures and messages of hope to a structural steel beam. That beam was then permanently installed in the new Memory Center, symbolizing not just the strength of the building, but the strength of the community’s commitment to those living with memory loss.

memory loss while nurturing meaningful engagement.

At the heart of the Memory Center will be a vibrant Town Center — no transactions, no barriers, just connection and dignity. Amenities are designed to foster natural interaction among Residents, families, and care partners, creating a truly inclusive and supportive atmosphere.

“This center is being built with compassion and innovation at its core,” said Marlin Thomas. “It will be a place of dignity, 9

The Marlin and Doris Thomas Memory Center will feature

Scheduled to open in 2026, the Memory Center has been

WILLOW

Fall 2025

years in the making. The pursuit began in 2017 with the goal of transforming how memory care is experienced.

The Willow Valley Communities team collaborated with global leaders in dementia care and completed more than 40 benchmarking visits to top-tier memory care communities across the United States and abroad, including The Hogeweyk in the Netherlands, known as one of the world’s premier dementia villages.

To bring this visionary concept to life, Willow Valley Communities partnered with NORD Architects of Copenhagen, Denmark, international leaders in designing for health and dignity. The result will be a first-of-its-kind Artist rendering of the entrance to the Marlin and Doris Thomas Memory Center.

environment that aims to destigmatize dementia, improve quality of life, and educate the broader community about brain health and aging.

As donors lined up to sign the beam, attendees applauded and cheered. It wasn’t just about steel and construction:

This center is being built with compassion and innovation at its core.

It was about compassion, legacy, and the future of memory care at Willow Valley Communities.

Marlin Thomas, Founder, Willow Valley Communities

Lauren A. Renehan, Memory Care Mission Director and Willow Valley Communities Charitable Foundation Executive Director

WillowValleyCommunities.org

WILLOW

10

HONORING WWII HEROES

BY PRESERVING THEIR HISTORY

Residents of Willow Valley Communities were honored

Mr. Watson also had the opportunity to meet Willow Valley

to welcome Stephen Watson, President & CEO of

Communities Resident Jane Huber, her daughter and son-in-

The National WWII Museum in New Orleans, for an

law, Janet and Theo Krapels, who are also Residents. Jane

unforgettable afternoon in the Cultural Center Performing

was a “Rosie the Riveter” as a young teenager and enjoyed

Arts Theater. In his presentation, Mr. Watson shared the

sharing memories with Mr. Watson.

museum’s mission and vision, offering a powerful glimpse into how it preserves and honors the legacy of WWII

Resident Eleanor Isaacson also had the opportunity to chat with Mr. Watson. Eleanor is the author of two books about

veterans. His insights into the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of those who served, as well as the immersive ways the museum tells these stories, left the audience

her experiences as a child in Nazi Germany: The Invisible Presence and Dancing from the Darkness.

Following the presentation, Residents gathered in the

deeply inspired.

The event was made even more meaningful when Resident Gail Miller introduced her father, Robert Adams, who is 104.

A proud WWII veteran who served in the 8th Air Force in England under Gen. Jimmy Doolittle, Mr. Adams received warm recognition from the audience and later posed for a

Cultural Center Art Gallery for a reception with Mr. Watson.

The afternoon provided not only a chance to hear from one of the leading voices in WWII historic preservation but also an opportunity for personal connections, reflection, and celebration of the stories that continue to shape history.

memorable photo alongside Gail, his other daughter, Regina Chandler, and Mr. Watson, marking a highlight of the day.

11

WILLOW

Fall 2025

Stephen Watson meets Residents after his presentation.

Resident Eleanor Isaacson greets Stephen Watson.

Resident Gail Miller (right), Robert Adams (front), and Regina Chandler (left), and Stephen Watson

Residents share their WWII memories.

(L–R) Residents Theo Krapels, Jane Huber, and Janet Krapels with Stephen Watson

WillowValleyCommunities.org

WILLOW

12

A NIGHT OF CELEBRATION HONORING OUR VISIONARIES — MARLIN THOMAS & JOHN SWANSON In a momentous evening filled with admiration and

rich history. Guests also heard moving remarks from Chief

gratitude, Willow Valley Communities recently gathered to

Operating Officer Scott Summy, former WGAL Channel

honor its most influential leaders, Founder Marlin Thomas

8 News anchor Kim Lemon, and others, all of whom

and past President & CEO John Swanson. The celebration

reflected on the enduring impact of Marlin and John’s

brought together colleagues and honored guests —

leadership. A highlight of the evening came when Marlin

including Lancaster Mayor Danene Sorace and Lancaster

proudly announced that John had been named to the

Alliance President & CEO Marshall Snively — along with

Senior Housing News Memory Care Innovation Awards

cherished family and friends who traveled from near and

Class of 2025 — a fitting recognition of his years of vision

far to take part in this special occasion.

and service.

Held at Chautauqua Hall, the event featured festive music

The following photos capture the joy and pride of this

and dining, heartfelt tributes, and warm memories of the

unforgettable night celebrating Marlin and John’s

past four decades at Willow Valley Communities, as well as

enduring legacy.

a special video presentation highlighting the organization’s

13

WILLOW

Fall 2025

Former WGAL Channel 8 News anchor Kim Lemon greets John Swanson.

Lancaster Mayor Danene Sorace with Marlin Thomas

Willow Valley Communities’ Chief Operating Officer, Scott Summy

WillowValleyCommunities.org

WILLOW

14

DICK COYNE: RAPPELLING FOR A CAUSE

By Carol Gifford, Community & Public Affairs Manager, VisionCorps

Dick Coyne is a connector, known to many who live and

Then last winter, Dick, a supporter of Lancaster nonprofit

work at Willow Valley Communities. He and his wife,

VisionCorps, was invited to their viewing of the 2023

Diana, have lived at Willow Valley for more than six years,

National Geographic documentary, Blink. It follows a

and he likes to help those looking for assistance by making

Canadian family who decides to travel the globe after three

meaningful connections and taking action.

of their four children are diagnosed with an incurable eye disease that will lead to the permanent loss of their vision.

Dick first became acquainted with vision loss during a

The documentary chronicles their travels, following what the

volunteer gig at the Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI). He was helping a group of people with recent

children choose to see and do.

vision loss learn to deal with everyday challenges, such as

“The film was inspirational,” said Dick. “Some parts were

navigating an escalator.

heartbreaking as the children with low vision — who at the

“That small part of their journey made me realize how much courage it takes for someone with low vision to tackle the everyday tasks that we take for granted,” he said.

15

time of the filming couldn’t see much of anything at night — were realizing that their vision in the future would be like that, Other parts were very touching, such as when they realized they could still play soccer with other kids.”

WILLOW

Fall 2025

At the end of the film, viewers were asked to consider taking part in Eye Drop, VisionCorps’ annual fundraiser in which supporters raise money for the chance to rappel down a 10-story building in downtown Lancaster. Before he left the theater, Dick signed up to participate.

“I wasn’t sure what it would be like,” he said. “I was able to raise the $1,000 needed to rappel in the event, and a lot more.

Family and friends were very generous in contributing to Eye Drop.” Dick raised $4,346 to compete in the event and support VisionCorps.

Still, on June 6, Eye Drop day, Dick was getting nervous.

“It was a very hot and humid day,” he said. “There was a delay up on the roof — where we waited outside — and I was nervous and felt dehydrated.”

It had been a long time since Dick had done any rappelling; his last experience was at age 14, when he was training to be a volunteer firefighter. Now, at 77, he wondered if it was a good idea for him to go over the edge and rappel 10 stories.

But the momentum was building. Dick was paired with a WGAL-TV reporter who interviewed him live on the noon news broadcast. While he was waiting on the roof, a photographer from the local newspaper took several photos of him.

“It helped that the people at the top of the roof were very thorough and reassuring, which is a tribute to an event that was well organized with many helpful volunteers,” Dick said.

“The drop was more physically taxing than I expected,” Dick admitted. “I got to see and talk to people who were blind and rappelling. What I learned is that with some support, people with vision challenges can accomplish much! They were doing a great job rappelling down the side of the 10-story Holiday Inn.” He finished strong and was proud of his accomplishment. But even more inspiring to Dick was what he learned about people with vision loss — that with the right tools, training, and support, they can not only conquer everyday challenges but can also reach greater heights.

A leading nonprofit in Lancaster, VisionCorps is on a mission to empower individuals who are blind or vision-impaired to attain

What I learned is that with some support, people with vision challenges can accomplish much!

Dick Coyne, Willow Valley Communities Resident

independence. This is done through providing rehabilitative, preventative, and educational services, as well as by employing people who are blind in manufacturing, food processing, and administrative services. To learn more about the organization, visit VisionCorps.net.

WillowValleyCommunities.org

WILLOW

16

RESIDENTS INVEST IN TEAM MEMBER DREAMS: SCHOLARSHIPS FUEL FUTURES & CELEBRATE COMMUNITY Life at Willow Valley Communities is all about

Throughout its 25-year history, the fund has supported more

connections — between Residents, Team Members,

than 270 nursing scholarships totaling over $780,000.

and the vibrant community they create together.

The second, the Willow Valley Communities Team Member

Every day, more than 1,600 Team Members bring their talents and dedication to serving over 2,600 Residents.

And in turn, Residents show their appreciation in an extraordinary way: by helping those same Team Members chase their dreams.

Education Fund (TMEF), was created in 2008 to support any field of study. From nuclear engineering to dance, cybersecurity to fashion merchandising, Team Members’ interests are as diverse as their talents. For the 2025–26 school year, 86 Team Members received $260,500, bringing

This year, that support added up to something remarkable.

the fund’s lifetime total to 803 scholarships and $1.9 million

For the 2025–26 academic year, 97 Team Members were

awarded across 50-plus fields.

awarded $340,500 in scholarships to continue their education in nursing and a wide variety of other fields.

What makes the TMEF unique is the Resident involvement.

Committee members personally review applications and

The scholarships come from two cherished funds. The

interview each student, making the process as meaningful as

Mathias J. Brunner Nursing Education Fund, established in

the award itself.

2000 by Resident Lillian Brunner, provides opportunities for Team Members pursuing nursing careers and advanced training. Thanks to Lillian’s vision and ongoing Resident generosity, 11 Team Members received $80,000 this year.

17

At Willow Valley Communities, generosity and gratitude flow both ways. Residents and Team Members together are proving that the legacy of excellence here isn’t just preserved — it’s lived forward every day.

WILLOW

Fall 2025

This scholarship has truly lifted a weight off my shoulders, allowing

For the 2025–26 academic year, 97 Team Members were awarded $340,500.

me to focus on my RN studies at Harrisburg Area Community College. It has given me confidence, motivation, and hope as I work towards my dream of becoming a nurse.

Samantha Boxleitner, CNA, Lakeside, Recipient of a Mathias J. Brunner Nursing

I feel privileged to serve as

Education Fund Scholarship

both a committee member and chair of the Team Member Education Fund. This role has allowed me to meet incredible Team Members

Dear Members of the Team Member

who are furthering their

Appreciation Fund,

education, pursuing new licenses, and advancing their careers — all while serving us with dedication

I am deeply grateful for your generosity and for

and kindness every day. Reading their essays,

taking the time to talk with me about my future

interviewing them, and hearing their gratitude

goals. As an adult returning to school, this journey

is inspiring. As a former educator, I’m in awe of

can feel intimidating, but your support has given me

their opportunities, their thoughtful plans, and

both confidence and encouragement.

the growth I’ve witnessed. Their heartfelt thank-

At Willow Valley Communities, “Life Lived

you notes and willingness to share their stories

Forward” is more than a slogan — it’s something

remind me how truly blessed we are at Willow

I’ve seen reflected in Residents every day. Their

Valley Communities. I am grateful to serve on this

stories, experiences, and ongoing passions continue

committee, and I can honestly say our future is in

to inspire me, and those interactions remain my

good hands.

favorite part of working here.

Debbie Mischo, Resident and Chair of the

Thank you for awarding me this scholarship and

Team Member Education Fund

for the example you set through your generosity and guidance. You’ve not only made my education possible but also reminded me of what it means to truly live life forward.

With admiration and appreciation,

Since their inception, the two funds have awarded over 1,000 scholarships.

WillowValleyCommunities.org

Alison R. Wills, Relocation Specialist

WILLOW

18

600 Willow Valley Square Lancaster, PA 17602

The Willow Valley Way For more than 40 years, Willow Valley Communities has been dedicated to helping people pursue exceptional lives. Our mission is simple: to inspire each person to embrace the possibilities of a Life Lived Forward. We are committed to innovative programming, operational excellence, and prudent financial practices.

And we are grateful to have been affirmed for our efforts.

In addition to the many awards and recognitions we receive every year from various organizations, we consistently receive an “A” rating from Fitch Ratings, affirming our proven financial stability. Our most important recognition, though, comes from the people who live here.

Our communities provide the peace of mind of Lifecare, which includes short- and long-term care, should you need it later, with no change to your monthly service fee due to the increased level of care.

Please call for more information. We look forward to welcoming you.

800.770.5445 | WillowValleyCommunities.org | info@willowvalley.org