Cape May Court House, N.J. – Middle Township can soon roll out the red carpet for seniors, thanks to a generous $25,000 donation that will fund a drop-down screen, auditorium seating, and other items for the senior center.
The donation is from Cascade Corp., a nonprofit, private foundation that is part of Del Mar Healthcare, Inc., based in Del Mar, Calif. The healthcare foundation supports nonprofits that assist the elderly with housing, health, and financial needs.
Businessman and philanthropist Don Ambrose, the founder and president of Del Mar Healthcare, Inc., previously owned two nursing homes in Cape May Court House until the buildings were sold in 2014.
Ambrose reached out to Director Marilyn Miller to ask how he could help the Samuel S. De Vico Senior Center. Miller mentioned that residents had been wanting a drop-down screen to watch movies at the center. The screen is estimated to cost $10,000, and Ambrose donated an additional $15,000 that will be applied to other senior center needs.
“One of our goals is for older adults to thrive and live their best lives,” said Ambrose. “We see the senior center helping many achieve this, and we hope the donation enables the center to continue enriching the residents’ lives.”
Miller is moving forward with plans for the movie screen and said it should be installed by the spring. She said the drop-down screen’s multiple uses will encourage participation by making it easier for seniors to see and hear information.
“This is wonderful, I’ve been hoping to get this done for a while,” said Miller. “The drop-down screen will be instrumental in helping senior citizens with visual and audio needs. They can watch movies, but it also can be used when they play bingo or have guest speakers.”
Miller said the senior center provides many opportunities for members of the community.
“It is important for senior citizens to get out of the house and socialize,” said Miller. “The senior center has activities that are good for the mind, body, and soul. We offer meditation and yoga classes, line dancing, Zumba, bingo and much more. There is something for everybody.”