Click to view slideshow! Images in this brochure are from the Martha Coker home in Yazoo City. It is the most refined version of the concept and is the same model for the Community Place Relocation Initiative
Click to view slideshow! Our campus and house layouts were designed by the McCarty Company (the originators of concept in conjunction with the Methodist Senior Services and Dr. Bill Thomas).
A Journey Home: Relocation Campaign
Since 2004, Community Place has been gradually moving toward a new approach to eldercare, researching trends and new models in senior care. In 2007, it was determined that the residentially designed home concept was far superior to other senior housing options.
We also studied the Eden Alternative, an organization dedicated to changing the culture within today's care institutions so that the process of aging can be a continued stage of development and growth, rather than a period of decline. In preparation for our next phase of growth and service, we began training to de-institutionalize Community Place. To date, nearly 100% of the staff has been trained on the 10 Principles of the Eden Alternative and have signed a letter of support to make these principles a part of the culture in our home!
To create such an environment, we strive to honor elder choice. Multiple committees (welcome, garden, bathroom renovation are just a few examples) allow elders to work with staff members to affect change, creating a home as opposed to an institution. In addition, our nurse stations have been converted into "neighborhoods" where elders and staff hold leadership positions in the decision-making of activities. We have also implemented an "It's Never Too Late" touch screen computer that enables elders who may have limited mobility to surf the web and e-mail family. Staff members participate more than ever in spontaneous activities that strengthen their relationships with the elders and one another.
Room to Grow.
Adopting the Eden Alternative philosophy is extremely encouraging, yet the old building serves as a barrier to continued growth. To realize the full potential of the model the actual living environment must change. Research has proven that quality of life is enhanced exponentially for elder living in residentially designed homes that are part of a larger neighborhood community (places where elders can live and receive skilled nursing care while maintaining a sense of community and home).
Well-planned, small living spaces that encourage socializing, provide private rooms, and offer the comforts of home increase elder, family member, and staff satisfaction. Benefits of this new type of care include: Elder-centered decision- making; Home environments; Universal caregivers who consistently serve in the same household; Less staff turnover; and, Stronger caregiver/elder relationships.
We have a plan
Over the next 18-24 months, an all-new campus will begin to take shape. The new location is in Pearl, MS on 22.6 acres of donated land.
The projected development cost is $9.5 Million. These costs include 1) Preparation of the construction site; 2) Construction of 6 ten-ß bedroom cottages and a commons building; and, 3) Facility equipment and furnishings. Financing is being secured for $6.5M of the projected costs, with an additional $3M in immediate charitable investment opportunities available. We are seeking multi-year pledge commitments.
Journey with us.
The success of the project will ultimately depend upon the broad community. Local, regional, and state financial support is essential for the long-term viability of this effort. Staff and board members are happy to provide detailed information relative to the various giving opportunities that exist.
For more information:
Michelle Daniel, Administrator and CEO
601-355-0617 ext. 303
mdaniel@visitcommunityplace.org
Jim Archer, Capital Campaign Chair
jarcher@visitcommunityplace.org
www.visitcommunityplace.org
Learn more about The Eden Alternative at www.edenalt.org
