Marking Their 50th with 50 Kitchens for Neighbors in Need

Leisure World, MD – Response is already exceeding expectations for a special community outreach project being undertaken by residents of Leisure World of Maryland, an active adult community celebrating its 50th anniversary this fall. Residents Ruth Friedman and Marti Jacobs are spearheading an effort to gather enough brand new or gently used items to stock 50 kitchens in the wider community, to be distributed by A Wider Circle, a local nonprofit, through its “Neighbor to Neighbor” program.

“The original plan was to collect enough items for 50 kitchens by the end of June and get them sorted and ready for A Wider Circle to pick up September 13 during our 50th anniversary week,” said Marti Jacobs. An organized schedule of collections from the 29 Leisure World of Maryland neighborhoods – called mutuals - began in mid-March. Two weeks and only four collections later, they’ve already sent one truckload on to A Wider Circle and still have several collection days scheduled.

“We’re thrilled that we’ll exceed our goal and really be able to make an impact,” added Ruth Friedman. “The response has been so gratifying,” she said. Residents of Leisure World have donated dishes, glasses, flatware, pots and pans, small appliances, dishcloths and cleaning supplies. Only four of the mutuals have had their scheduled donation days, leaving Ruth and Marti hoping to send additional truckloads to A Wider Circle before completing their collection project at the end of June.

Leisure World of Maryland is a private, 610-acre community for adults age 55 and over that is known for its expansive recreational facilities and educational opportunities. Leisure World is home to more than 8,500 residents, as well as to an 18-hole golf course, medical facilities, and multiple clubhouses with restaurants, ballrooms, and other amenities. Residents own their homes, paying a monthly fee that includes the entire Leisure World amenity program. The array of housing includes luxury condominiums, town-homes and single-family homes.