(Chelsea Update would like to thank Lisa French for the information in this story.)
The UMRC Foundation has received a grant of $50,000 from the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Legacy Funds of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan.
This grant supports outdoor fitness equipment as part of UMRC’s new Kresge Courtyard and Wellness Walk at its Chelsea Retirement Community campus.
“We are thrilled to receive this grant and grateful to the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan and the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation for their commitment to older adults in our region,” says Wendy Brightman, president of UMRC Foundation and Porter Hills Foundation, in a press release.
“This generous gift supports UMRC’s health and wellness initiatives and will help us create the Kresge Courtyard and Wellness Walk. This beautiful outdoor space will connect our recently expanded Kresge Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center with our newly opened, state-of-the-art McMullen Wellness Center. We are so excited to create this outdoor oasis that will bring joy, health, and fitness benefits for the older adults we serve, as well as their families and members of the wider community,” she said.
With “Joy” as its theme, this barrier-free, intergenerational space will include walking paths, exercise stations, raised vegetable and flower gardens, outdoor games, and more.
“As we age, we become less likely to engage in physical activities, even though regular physical activity has been shown to help older adults remain independent by reducing the risk of falls, improving strength and stamina, and reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression,” said Brightman. “We look forward to people of all generations and abilities to find enjoyment and opportunities to move and play in this lovely new space.”
