Press Release: Parker's "Living With A Purpose Club" Earns 2020 Community Commitment Award

The 2020 Community Commitment Award (CCA), presented by the Pioneer Network and Rockport Healthcare Services, is a national distinction that recognizes long-term care resident-driven programs supported by organizations that encourage ongoing efforts which enrich lives of elders. on
SOMERSET, NJ – September 8, 2020 – Parker at Somerset’s “Living With A Purpose Club” (LWAPC) has been honored with the 2020 Community Commitment Award (CCA), a national distinction that recognizes resident-driven programs that would not be possible if it were not for organizations like Parker Health Group, Inc, who provide support and encourage ongoing efforts which enrich lives in meaning and purpose to its Elders. 
 
The CCA, presented by the Pioneer Network and Rockport Healthcare Services, acknowledges members of the long-term care community for volunteer service, benefiting not only those living in a residential home, but their communities at-large.
 
LWAPC was formed five years ago after a group of residents at Parker at Somerset expressed the desire to make a greater impact on the lives of others. Members of the club believe it is their duty to serve others.
 
“Parker’s Living with Purpose Club exemplifies what the CCA is all about, the difference that residents can make in creating greater purpose in their lives as they support the needs of the greater community,” said Joan Devine, Director of Education, Pioneer Network. “The way the program has adapted over time is a wonderful example of how a program can be sustained.”
 
Members of the LWAPC have raised thousands of dollars in cash and gift cards, as well as food donations and holiday presents. Members have also raised money to donate sporting goods, clothing and school supplies to children and young adults. They have sponsored theatrical performances and collaborated with other charitable causes in the Somerset community.
 
“The Living with A Purpose Club is a perfect example of Parker’s mission, which is to discover ways to make aging manageable, relatable and enriching for all of society. This club is certainly making a difference in our society and we are grateful that their purpose has been recognized through this prestigious award,” said Roberto Muñiz, President & CEO of Parker.

The club combines passionate and driven elders and caring and compassionate care partners who created opportunities and guidance.  The effort that goes into this club is tremendous and beyond task. PSO has exceptional care partners who works in partnership with our elders to make their lives purposeful at all phases.
 
Due to social distancing guidelines, the LWAPC hasn’t met in-person over the past few months, but is eager to continue in its mission.
Eleven current residents, three family members and eight employees from various departments were honored with certificates at a virtual event of the Pioneer Network, “Envisioning the Future:  2020 & Beyond,” held Sept. 3rd.
 
Learn more at Parkerlife.org
 
About Parker Health Group, Inc.
Parker Health Group, Inc. is a non-for-profit, New Jersey-based aging services organization with over 113 years’ experience that is committed to empowering older Americans. Since 1907 Parker has been challenging, changing, and expanding the idea of what it means to grow older in America and how all of us can make aging part of life.