Lutheran SeniorLife: A Year of Milestones, Memories, and New Beginnings Posted on December 23, 2024March 13, 2025 As we approach the end of another remarkable year, Lutheran SeniorLife reflects on the moments that have defined 2024. From celebrating milestones to launching new initiatives, our mission to provide an Abundant Life® to those we serve has never been stronger. Here are some of the highlights from this incredible year. Passavant Community Celebrates 10th Anniversary of the Abundant Life Center In 2024, Passavant Community proudly celebrated its 10th anniversary of its Abundant Life Center. Since its opening in 2014, the Center has stood as a testament to transformation, replacing the historic “Olde Main” building, which had been a cornerstone of the community since 1907. The new facility heralded a fresh approach to care for Lutheran SeniorLife, emphasizing holistic services, compassionate support, and an enriched living experience. Spanning 220,000 square feet, the Abundant Life Center is home to independent residential apartments, nursing and personal care apartments, a restaurant, a fitness center, and a pool. Its innovative design, inspired by the concept of neighborhoods, fosters a unique blend of comfort, care, and community for residents. “From the very beginning, the Abundant Life Center has been about more than just bricks and mortar. It is about creating a vibrant community where residents can thrive and feel truly at home,” shared Laura Roy, executive director of Passavant Community. The anniversary celebration honored the past decade of the Center’s success while reaffirming Passavant Community’s commitment to offering an abundant life to all its residents. David Fenoglietto, CEO of Lutheran SeniorLife, reflected on the Center’s profound impact. “The Abundant Life Center is more than just a beautiful facility; it embodies our mission to deliver exceptional care and foster an enriching, supportive environment. It has truly become the heart of Passavant Community, where compassion and connection flourish every day.” Celebrating a Decade of Friendship: LIFE Lawrence and Butler Counties’ Annual Picnic at Moraine State Park Two of the four LIFE program, LIFE Lawrence County and LIFE Butler County carried on a cherished tradition—a joint picnic at Moraine State Park, which has brought the two programs together for the past ten years. The picturesque lakeside setting provided the perfect backdrop for a day brimming with food, fun, and fellowship. A total of 36 participants from both programs gathered at the dock to enjoy the serene beauty of the lake. They watched fish swim, soaked up the sunshine, and exchanged conversations with old and new friends alike. The festivities included playful activities such as water balloons, water guns for a refreshing break from the heat, and bubbles for added fun. Music filled the air, inspiring everyone to dance and revel in the joyful atmosphere. “It’s special to see the participants interacting with each other from each center,” said Ingrid Tallarico, LIFE Butler County Recreation Therapy Manager. “They get to meet new friends and forge new connections. It’s one of the best days of the year.” Lisa Scheidemantle, LIFE Lawrence County Recreation Therapy Manager, echoed Ingrid’s sentiments. “Ingrid and I have been doing this for 10 years, and each year, we both look forward to this,” she shared. “It’s always a highlight of the summer, and the participants start asking in the spring when this picnic will take place.” This annual picnic embodies the heart of our LIFE Programs—creating connections, celebrating life, and building lasting memories. Lutheran SeniorLife is proud to support such meaningful events that enrich the lives of participants and staff alike. New Independent Living Carriages Coming to Passavant Community Passavant Community continues its tradition of excellence in senior living with the introduction of new independent living Carriage homes in Zelienople Designed to meet the needs of today’s active seniors, these modern, spacious Carriage Homes are designed to provide a vibrant and fulfilling lifestyle for seniors seeking the independence of living in their own homes while enjoying the security and amenities offered by a premier senior living community. Residents will have access to all the amenities and services available at Passavant, including ASPIRE fitness and wellness programs, dining options, social and recreational activities, and on-site healthcare services. The addition of the new carriages reflects Lutheran SeniorLife’s commitment to expanding seniors’ choices and creating an environment where they can live an Abundant Life®. Lutheran SeniorLife Foundation Annual Event Celebrates Making a Difference “Make a difference that will not be forgotten.” Lutheran SeniorLife President and CEO, David Fenoglietto, spoke those words as a call to action for an evening filled with purpose and philanthropy at this year’s Lutheran SeniorLife Foundation Annual Event, held at the picturesque Pittsburgh Field Club. The Annual Event serves a vital cause: raising funds for the Lutheran SeniorLife Mission Fund, which impacts the lives of countless individuals through its LIFE programs in Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, and Lawrence counties, as well as the Visiting Nurses Association of Western PA, the Passavant and St. John Communities, and the Lutheran Service Society. Under the theme, ‘A Time to Make a Difference’, sponsors, donors, friends and employees gathered with a shared mission: to uplift older adults and vulnerable members of our communities across Western Pennsylvania. Thanks to everyone’s generosity, this year’s Annual Event raised over $150,000. These generous donations will directly impact lives in the most meaningful ways—older adults will receive compassionate care, vulnerable members of our community will be supported, and countless families will find comfort knowing their loved ones are thriving. Lutheran SeniorLife Rehabilitation Team Members Recognized The Lutheran SeniorLife Rehabilitation Department reflects on a year of growth, innovation, and commitment to enhancing the lives of those we serve. This year has been marked by significant accomplishments and continued dedication to providing compassionate, high-quality care noted by the team members who were recognized for their outstanding contributions, underscoring their dedication to making a difference. Jessica McGuinness Honored as Gannon University’s Clinical Instructor of the Year During a recent ceremony at St. John Community, Dr. Connie Lewis, co-director of Clinical Education at Gannon University, presented Physical Therapist Jessica McGuinness the Instructor of the Year award. “Every year, we have students nominate a Clinical Instructor of the Year, and this year, one of our students nominated Jessica,” explained Dr. Lewis. “We want to thank you for all that you do, not only for our program but for the profession.” McGuinness, who graduated from Gannon University in 2009, has been with Lutheran SeniorLife for 12 years. Her passion for working in skilled care, especially with older adults, stems from her love for the setting, the opportunity to witness progression, and the ability to build meaningful relationships. “I have never been bored at my job here at St. John,” McGuinness shared. “This award is student-nominated, which really means a lot to me. It’s an honor.” McGuinness has guided 17 students through 10-12 week rotations, offering them invaluable hands-on experience. She fondly remembers each of her students by name and is committed to seeing their professional growth. McGuinness’s dedication and excellence in clinical instruction continue to inspire both her students and colleagues, making a lasting impact on the future of physical therapy. “She takes our Gannon students and many other students all the time, and they always rave about how much they learn from her,” said Dr. Lewis. “Our program could not exist without great clinical instructors… You are definitely one of the best.” Cynthia Paras Honored with Baylor University’s Outstanding Capstone Mentor Award Cynthia Paras, an esteemed occupational therapist, recently received the prestigious Outstanding Capstone Mentor award from Baylor University during their graduation ceremony. This accolade recognizes her exceptional contributions to the mentorship and professional development of students completing their capstone projects in occupational therapy. “I am humbled by this acknowledgement and thankful for the student and faculty collaboration that led to such an honor,” said Paras. The capstone project is a cornerstone of Baylor University’s occupational therapy program, requiring students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. Paras’ guidance has been instrumental in ensuring her mentees’ success, with many attributing their accomplishments to her insightful feedback and unwavering support. Receiving the Outstanding Capstone Mentor award from Baylor University OTD program is a recognition of my commitment to guiding students through a pivotal stage of their academic journey,” Paras shared. “This honor reflects my strong desire to inspire and empower students to develop an in-depth knowledge and expertise in an area of practice and produce a meaningful Capstone project to excel both personally and professionally.” “Cynthia Paras’ commitment to excellence and her passion for shaping the next generation of occupational therapists continues to inspire both her colleagues and students. Her recognition by Baylor University underscores the profound impact of her work on the field of occupational therapy,” said Christine Namey, Rehab Director-Outpatient & Home Health. VNA Volunteers: Griffiths Honored for Two Decades of Hospice Volunteer Work Lillian and David Griffith, long-time VNA Hospice volunteers, were named Health Care Workers of the Year by the Butler County Health Care Consortium at its 7th annual recognition event. Lillian began volunteering in 2005 after retiring, with David joining in 2013. Over the years, they’ve provided companionship, support, and comfort to hospice patients, often going the extra mile with small gifts and personalized care. David’s military background has made him a sought-after companion for veterans in hospice. The couple, both in their 80s, emphasize that their work is driven by faith and compassion. “As long as you’re breathing, you can do God’s work,” Lillian said. Families and colleagues praise their dedication. “They treated my mom with dignity,” said Mary Campbell, whose mother was cared for by the Griffiths. Lillian hopes their recognition inspires others to volunteer. “I hope people read about what we’re doing and say, ‘I can do that.’” As we look forward to 2025, Lutheran SeniorLife remains dedicated to innovation, compassion, and community. Thank you for being a part of our journey. Together, we continue to fulfill our mission of providing an Abundant Life for those we serve and those who serve.