(Chelsea Update would like to thank Lisa French for the information in this story.)
The United Methodist Retirement Communities (UMRC) Foundation recently announced it has awarded its 2018 annual community grants, totaling $22,500, to five area nonprofit organizations serving the needs of older adults.
These include:
- Chelsea Senior Center to support rural transportation
- Huron Waterloo Pathways Initiative
- Friends of Jackson Seniors – Meals on Wheels
- Ypsilanti Meals on Wheels
- Focus: HOPE Detroit
“The UMRC Foundation Board makes the determination each year of what nonprofits to support,” said UMRC Foundation President Wendy Brightman in a press release.
“I am so proud to serve with these individuals who voted unanimously this year to increase both the total dollar amount and number of community grants to be awarded in 2018,” she said.
Susan Faulkner, executive director of Huron Waterloo Pathways Initiative, said the organization sincerely appreciates the contribution from the UMRC Foundation to develop non-motorized trails as part of its Border-to-Border Trail. “This support will help facilitate the construction of over five new miles of trail in 2019. These paved pathways are intended for people of all ages and abilities, fostering healthy, active and connected communities,” Faulkner said.
Chelsea Senior Center Executive Director Trinh Pifer said, “The Chelsea Senior Center is thankful for the generosity of the UMRC Foundation. This grant will support our efforts to expand and enhance rural transportation options for older adults, while working with existing resources and community partners to meet these diverse transportation needs.”
The UMRC Foundation’s grants to the Friends of Jackson Seniors – Meals on Wheels, Ypsilanti Meals on Wheels, and Focus: HOPE Detroit support nutritional programs for older adults in these areas to help them live as independently as possible.
“Our board members truly care about making a difference for the older adults who live in the communities where UMRC serves,” adds Brightman. “It is a beautiful part of our mission.”
