Ocean City's UMC To Hold Fundraising Gala Oct. 12

OCEAN CITY, N.J. — United Methodist Communities at The Shores will kick off planned enhancements of shared living and learning spaces with a special fundraising gala. Creating Experiences will take place on Friday, Oct. 12, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Greate Bay Country Club in Somers Point. Ocean City Chief Financial Officer and Director of Emergency Management Frank Donato will be the gala’s honoree.

“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,” United Methodist Communities at The Shores Executive Director Jessica Stewart said.

The physical changes are driven by The Shores’ goal to be Creating Experiences for their residents, as well as individuals and groups in the Ocean City community-at-large, according to the assisted living facility. It demonstrates the organization’s mission of compassionately serving in community so that all are free to choose abundant life.

Planned enhancements include redesigned common areas and a lobby with a water feature to greet visitors. The goal is to resemble a town plaza. Comfortable seating and upscale serene décor will further facilitate social engagement, according to the facility.

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 has served Ocean City for over 50 years. It is the largest year round employer in 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.

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 to participate, contact Susan Sharp, vice president philanthropy, United Methodist Communities Foundation, at 732-731-2122 or ssharp@umcommunities.org.

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