Cedar Crest Unveils "Peace Dove Trees"

Cedar Crest, an Erickson Senior Living-managed community in Pompton Plains, proudly unveiled its "Peace Dove Trees" on September 21, marking the International Day of Peace.

In a heartwarming dedication ceremony, residents and staff gathered to present white paper doves inscribed with the word "Peace" in 34 languages, representing the native tongues of those who live or work at Cedar Crest. Each contributor held up their dove, read "Peace" into the microphone in their native language, and then hung the dove on an artificial tabletop tree displayed on stage. The ceremony culminated with singing "Let There Be Peace on Earth," accompanied by resident Fred Fischer on the piano.

Following the ceremony, identical Peace Dove Trees found a home in each of the community's three clubhouses and Mountainview Gardens, where they will stand as a permanent tribute to the cause of peace. Cedar Crest's residents and staff will be encouraged to continue contributing paper doves inscribed with "peace" in various languages throughout the year, fostering an ongoing celebration of diversity and unity.

The inspiration for the Peace Trees came from resident Judy Fischer, who passionately advocated for this initiative within the Peace Subcommittee of the Welcoming Diversity and Inclusion Committee. Judy's dedication to peace began during her tenure as a children's librarian in Roselle Park, NJ, where she introduced a Peace Tree as part of a "Celebrating Roselle Park: 100 Years of Diversity" event. Upon her retirement, Judy received the Peace Tree, which now graces the ledge outside her apartment home at Cedar Crest, a symbol of her enduring commitment to promoting harmony.

Cedar Crest continues to be a place where residents and staff come together to celebrate peace, diversity, and inclusion, embodying the spirit of unity on this special day and beyond.

Cedar Crest's beautiful 130-acre campus is nestled in the Ramapo Mountains in Morris County. Its more than 1,800 residents are served by a total workforce of more than 980 employees. The community offers abundant amenities, hundreds of resident-run clubs and activities, on-site restaurants, a state-of-the-art medical center, Interfaith Chapel, an all-season pool, and a fitness center. To learn more about Cedar Crest's vibrant senior living lifestyle, visit CedarCrest.com.