2011 Annual Report - Modern Maturity Center

Message from the Director
In tough economic times it is easy to lose sight of the impact that small acts of service
can have on the lives of our members and clients. We tend to be absorbed in the great,
but necessary, tasks of raising funds to maintain our programs and yet, every day there
are greater acts of kindness and caring being performed by our dedicated staff, Board
members, volunteers and members than can be counted.
This year we had many trials as well as triumphs. Our new building construction was
hampered by weather. We also faced challenges with some red tape, which, thanks to
the support of our members, Board of Directors and community friends we were able to
overcome. However, despite the obstacles we were able to celebrate the grand opening
of our new medical arts building and adult day services on June 15. Lifespan Medical
Services, our Caregiver Resource Center and a minor surgical procedure room for the
Hope Clinic occupy the second floor and our adult day services program – Day Break
occupies the entire first floor. Clients, staff and families all joined in to paint and decorate
the new space which features and open floor plan with areas for dining, socializing,
relaxing and participating in activities.
When faced with funding challenges, we received welcome and unexpected support
from the Delaware Division of Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities, that allowed us
to purchase a new food truck, equipment for our new facility and other items that would
not have been possible without their support.
In 2011, we continued our push to educate our legislators on the issues that matters to
seniors. Our annual Legislative Luncheon in May gave them the opportunity to see first
hand the benefits of the programs MMC provides as well as the chance to speak face to
face with constituents. It also provided some additional small acts of kindness from our
legislators who came forward to help us pay for unexpected costs associated with the
redesign of the entrance to our property.
Throughout the year, I was happily surprised and gratified by support that came to us
quietly from unexpected sources. But the most gratifying feeling of all is watching the
dedicated staff we have here at MMC. Each day, they work to bring joy and comfort to
others. Through out these pages, you can read in their own words why they
do what they do. For inspiration, look to them.
One drop of
water helps
to swell the
ocean; a spark
of fire helps to
give light to the
world. None are
too small, too
feeble, too poor
to be of service.
Think of this
and act.”
- Hannah More
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Variety is the spice of life. . .
When you have a membership that ranges from 50 to over 100, you can imagine
the variety and scope of the programs needed to meet the interests and needs
of such a diverse group. Although challenging, our program department works to
develop offerings based on current trends and member interests.
We encourage our members to participate by sharing their hobbies and interests
through classes, seminars and clubs the result is a varied, culturally diverse
and exciting choice of programs for all our members. Last year we offered more
than 300 different program opportunities for our members.
“I enjoy working with our members; providing them with programs and events that
they enjoy. Coming to work every day, seeing the excitement they have is rewarding.
Our members are so knowledgeable and their life experiences are something I
treasure. They continue to teach me so much.” - Daphne Strickland, Program/RSVP
Director
The majority of us lead quiet, unheralded lives as we pass
through this world. There will most likely be no ticker-tape
parades for us, no monuments created in our honor. But that
does not lessen our possible impact, for there are scores
of people waiting for someone just like us to come along;
people who will appreciate our compassion,
our unique talents. Someone who will live a
happier life merely because we took the time
to share what we had to give.
— Leo Buscaglia
Black History Month
Celebration
Forrest Ave. Quilt Guild
Glee Club
Line
Dancing
The Clever
Claviers
MMC ANNUAL REPORT 2011 4