Originally published in the October issue of “Inside the Back Mountain” magazine.

Charlotte Kindler

Charlotte Kindler, Masonic Village resident

The last few months have presented challenges for everyone and required much patience and flexibility.

For Charlotte Kindler, staying at home during the months of COVID-19 has given her more time to paint land and seascapes, practice her ukulele and video chat with her three sons, two daughters and five grandchildren.

As a resident of Masonic Village at Dallas, Charlotte didn’t have to worry about some of the overwhelming concerns and questions many others had to deal with, like how to visit the grocery store safely or when it was okay to start gathering with others. These issues were handled by team members who prioritized residents’ health and safety above all else.

Now, more than ever, peace of mind and convenience is invaluable.

“It’s a lovely environment without the hassle of home maintenance,” Charlotte said. “Not only am I in a secure building, but I am surrounded by caring, supportive neighbors, and there are lots of activities available. Staff are doing a fabulous job keeping us protected from the [COVID-19] virus, seeing that we can order meals from our clubhouse and giving daily updates.

“I thank God I made the move to Masonic Village. All my children are totally happy I found a residence that suits my needs.”

The addition of CIP Rehabilitation at the Irem Clubhouse last fall makes it convenient for residents like Charlotte, and those in the surrounding community, to attain their highest quality of life. They offer outpatient physical, occupational, speech and massage therapy services and a weekly Senior Fit Club, which is on hold due to COVID-19. To provide a convenient option for seniors, staff share classes on CIP Rehabilitation’s YouTube channel.

In good times and bad, being a good neighbor should always be a priority.

Although Masonic Village is a not-for-profit organization, it financially supports other charitable groups to build a strong community (read more in our Community Report). In 2019, donations were made to the Koman Greater PA, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bridge, Commission on Economic Opportunity, Philabundance, Meadows Nursing Center Auxiliary, Back Mountain Regional Fire & EMS, Back Mountain Memorial Library Association and Friends of Mary Kintz Bevevino Library.

Masonic Village at Dallas residents also do their part to give back. They volunteer at the Back Mountain Food Pantry, and in 2019, donated nonperishable goods and $1,457 to support its mission. Several residents have volunteered at the Meadows Nursing Home & Rehabilitation Center and participated in an Adopt a Road project to help clean up nearby Country Club Road. A group also made blankets and a monetary donation toward the Women with Children program at Misericordia University. The program benefits mothers who aspire to a college degree while the university sponsors child care.

Residents make blankets

Masonic Village residents make blankets for the Women with Children Program at Misericordia University

Much has changed over the last few months, but the strong sense of community in the Back Mountain remains as strong and vibrant as ever.

by Joy Hubshman, director of marketing and sales