The 213th Annual Council - Diocese of Virginia

Annual Reports
There is a considerable gap between the maximum levels of income and assets qualifying
for low-income facilities and the comfortable minimum of the CCRCs. For a number
of years, the Virginia Diocesan Homes has been seeking to assist in establishing a
facility that would serve this gap, that we call the “mid-income” level of the population.
Although we have explored specific projects, for various reasons none have so far
moved beyond the exploratory stage. Our Development Committee would be interested
in meeting with any group that is interested in pursuing such a project and would be
pleased to explain further the assistance that would be available from us and what would
be necessary to qualify for such assistance.
Financially, as the result of a bequest a number of years ago, funds are available to assist
a qualified organization that is pursuing our goals. As they were being developed all
the facilities above were involved with and assisted by Virginia Diocesan Homes. VDH
presently exercises stewardship over its financial resources by investing them with the
Diocesan Trustees of the Funds that have performed very well relative to the market over
the past few years.
Recently, the Board has adopted a number of initiatives intended to enhance its focus
on the establishment of additional housing alternatives for the elderly and to enhance
the Boards efforts to parishes and the broader community aware of its mission. We look
forward to continuing to serve the Diocese in the future as more of the “baby boomers”
reach the point at which they begin to consider residential care.
Su b m i t t e d b y Wi l l i a m “Bi ll” Fe t s c h, Pr e s i d e n t
Westminster Canterbury Richmond
Founded in faith by the Episcopal and Presbyterian churches, Westminster Canterbury
Richmond always has recognized the need to enrich the lives of older adults on multiple
levels. In 2007, our efforts have evolved into a variety of initiatives designed to strengthen
the body, inspire the mind and nurture the spirit. These initiatives form the basis for a
new strategic plan that positions Westminster Canterbury for the years ahead. The plan
addresses needs in four areas key to future success: facilities, lifestyle health services and
quality staff.
Body
The strategy to develop “world class” health services was a year-long focal point. Plans
began for the $22-million renovation and expansion of the Mary Morton Parsons Health
Center and Pavilion assisted living to support the Project H.O.M.E. model of residentcentered
care delivered by staff-directed work teams. The shift from a traditional
clinical service model to a more homelike environment is based on the successes of the
Gables memory support program. The program continues to evolve to promote greater
independence, flexibility and choice in each resident’s daily life.
Another health services goal was achieved in February with the appointment of
Westminster Canterbury’s first full-time medical director, Dr. Kevin Fergusson, which
began paying immediate dividends in terms of improved service for residents. Only a
few continuing care retirement communities in Virginia have a fulltime medical director.
WELL Connected, a comprehensive wellness program, was created in response to
increased resident interest in fitness. The program educates residents about balanced
holistic wellness, and celebrated its first year with membership of 67 residents.
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The Diocese of Virginia t Journal of the the 213 th Annual Council