Arkansas City Community Matters – May 2023

Volunteer support critical to golf tournament’s long-lasting success

Since its inception in 1995, Arkansas City Presbyterian Manor’s annual golf tournament has raised more than $400,000 in support of local seniors—a feat that wouldn’t have been possible without the ongoing support of a dedicated group of volunteers and local organizations.

The event, now named Golfin’ for Good Sam—along with the Karl Faidley Memorial Golf Ball Drop—benefits

Arkansas City Presbyterian Manor’s Good Samaritan Fund, which provides assistance to residents who have outlived their financial resources. Preparations for this year’s tournament began in January and were spearheaded by a six-person committee, which includes Jan Pringle who celebrated her 20th year as an event volunteer. And Jan is not alone in her long-standing support of the program. Jeff Wood has served for 15 years cumulatively, and Michael Mora and Reatha Juden have been involved for nine and six years straight respectively. Rounding out this year’s committee were Kim Hager and Maria Venegas, who have both served on the committee for two years.

Asked why she has dedicated so much time to the event, Jan noted rising health care costs and a strong belief in PMMA’s mission.

“Health care is expensive, and I know from experience that a lot of residents outlive their resources,” she said. “If it was not for events like this to help put money in the coffers, Presbyterian Manor would struggle to help as many residents as they do.”

Golf – continued on page 2

Bible study group a learning experience for all involved

Back in 2020, a small group led by community volunteers Mother Kathy Swain and Trish McMains began meeting at Arkansas City Presbyterian Manor to discuss—and study—the Bible.

However, just as soon as it got started, COVID-19 shut it down.

Recently, with transmission rates trending down and social distancing restrictions lifted, the group has reformed.

“As soon as things opened back up, we were really, really excited and we started as soon as we could,” said Mother Kathy.

While Mother Kathy is technically the leader of the group, she is quick to point out that it is really much more of a collaborative learning exercise.

“It’s a reading and study group—I’m

Study – continued on page 4

Arkansas City Presbyterian Manor

Jan Pringle and Sarah Griggs, measuring for the ball drop winner.

Mother Kathy Swain

Golf – continued from page 1 Jeff, who also stated a strong desire to “pay it forward,” seconded Jan’s comments on the current state of health care prices.

“Health care is outrageously expensive in all walks of life,” he agreed. “I don't believe anyone wants to live in a retirement community by choice, but due to nature and time, many of us end up there. Unlike Motel 6 that will keep a light on for you—for less than $75 dollars a night—retirement communities are much higher. So many people's life savings are drained due to long-term health care, and most do not have or cannot afford retirement home insurance.”

Over the past 28 years, more than 60 volunteers have served on the golf tournament committee and 14 of those have gone on to become Presbyterian Manor residents. The staff at Arkansas City Presbyterian Manor is extremely grateful for their contributions and what they have meant to the community.

“Each one of these individuals works tirelessly communicating our mission to donors and golfers to ensure a successful fundraising event,” said Arkansas City Presbyterian Manor Executive Director Sarah Griggs. “Without these generous individuals, these two events would not be possible.” u

Community Matters

Volunteers Maria Venegas and Kim Hager helping get ready for the 2022 golf tournament on tournament day.

Volunteers at last year's registration table.

Volunteers Jeff and Yazmin Wood at the 2022 golf tournament.

Just Ask series takes a multi-perspective look at dementia

During February and March, Arkansas City Presbyterian Manor presented a three-part Just Ask Dementia Conversations series, which was part of ongoing lunch-and-learn talks covering topics of interest for seniors.

The first event in the conversation was hosted by Al Melichar who shared his experience as a caregiver for his wife who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. The second was an interactive sensory workshop which helped us understand what our loved ones with dementia or Alzheimer’s are experiencing and was hosted by Cherree Hudspeth, regional director of marketing and sales of PMMA (Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America®). Rounding out the conversation, we held a family, resident and staff panel where we shared personal stories and helpful tips, and answered questions about what life is like at Arkansas City Presbyterian Manor with Anna Robinson, RN and director of assisted living and home health, Sheila Riedl, accounting assistant, Mary Beeks and Nancy Heiberger.

If you would like to know about future Just Ask events, contact Whitley Stokes at 620-506-0130 or wstokes@pmma.org. u

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

Study – continued from page 1

not teaching, we’re all learning together. We’re also laughing together, and sometimes we’re sharing some harder experiences, but it’s just a very friendly, loving, affirming group,” said Mother Kathy.

Currently, the group is meeting to discuss The Book of Acts, which many had not studied previously.

“We read a scripture from Acts, followed by a commentary on it and then we discuss it— sharing our questions and discussing insights or ‘aha’ moments,” said Mother Kathy.

Those that form the group come from a variety of backgrounds,

but with one common goal—to obtain a greater understanding of the words of God.

“The people who are participating have different faiths and life experiences and we come together and study for the love of Christ. It’s wonderful,” said Mother Kathy.

The group typically meets once a week at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and includes up to 8 or 9 residents, however, Mother Kathy said that regular participation is not required.

“If you miss a week or two, it’s ok, just come on and come back in,” said Mother Kathy. u

PHILANTHROPY UPDATE

PMMA Department of Giving

Otis Morrow. One of a Kind.

Otis Morrow left a special legacy of leadership and kindness. Since the beginning, he was involved in the mission of Arkansas City Presbyterian Manor. During the mid-1980s, Otis served as the chairman of the Presbyterian Manor expansion campaign. Later, in the 1990s, his passion for golf merged with the mission when Otis began golfing and supporting the annual golf tournament.

Over the years, Otis counseled many clients who became residents, donors and friends of the community. "He was always encouraging folks to get involved or golf at the tournament. But, he also helped many clients make a lasting difference too. I am so thankful for the many connections Otis made for Arkansas City Presbyterian Manor," said Sarah Griggs, executive director.

Otis's passing this year has left a tremendous void in the Arkansas City community. The legacy that Otis leaves behind is to give back to the community, to serve and be a friend. Terri Morrow, his wife, shared that she and Otis have always felt that "Arkansas City Presbyterian Manor is a God send to the community, and the residents who live there."

Thank you Otis for your dedication and commitment to the mission. You will be forever remembered and celebrated.

2022 by the #s:

Total Raised: $221,267

Total Donors: 336

Total Volunteers: 54

Total Raised in All PMMA Communities: $274,872

346 lives changed

Otis Morrow, right, and Sarah Griggs, executive director

PMMA at a Glance

Aberdeen Ridge - Colorado Springs, CO

We’re excited to bring a new retirement community choice to Colorado Springs. With construction scheduled to be completed in 2023, Aberdeen Ridge offers amenity-rich independent living and assisted living, and a warm and comfortable neighborhood supported by memory care.

KDOT Grant Update

Eligible PMMA communities participate in the Section 5310 Specialized Transportation program through KDOT.

Grants are awarded annually for transit vehicles and equipment such as wheelchair lifts, ramps, operating expenses, and maintenance. In 2022, nine communities received grants totaling $53,000. These communities were Arkansas City, Topeka, Emporia, Clay Center, Newton, Salina, Parsons, Lawrence, and Manor of the Plains.

Board of Trustees Spotlight - Mrs. Pat Cook

"I'm new to the board this year. I am a registered nurse, now retired, but I spent a number of years working in the field of gerontology. Working in this field can be a very rewarding experience. Thank you for all you do for the residents. I wish you well, and I look forward to meeting you." ~ Pat

Cook

PMMA Board of Trustees

Robert S. Bonney, Kansas City, MO

Gary D. Brennecke, Parsons, KS

Pat Cook, Wildwood, MO

"Changing Dementia Care, One Mind At A Time."

As dementia and Alzheimer's continues to impact more senior baby boomers, PMMA is pleased to announce that we will be implementing the Positive Approach to Care (PAC) method to assist our residents with dementia. The PAC program focuses on building awareness, knowledge and skill with our staff and resident family members on how to communicate with residents with dementia.

The PAC program also referred to as the Teepa Snow method is a common sense approach in care for residents with dementia. For more information, visit their website at www.teepasnow.com.

PMMA will be providing staff training at all of our communities over the next few months. In addition, PMMA will also be providing classes on the PAC program for interested family members. Watch for available dates and times in your community.

Nancy Duling, Wichita, KS

Dan Harris, Dodge City, KS

Aaron Morrison, Salina, KS