LeadingAge New York Adviser Fall 2015 Vol. 1 | Page 14
Feature
New Annual Giving Garden Blooms
Michael Conner, relationship development coordinator,
The Centers at St. Camillus, Syracuse
T
he new Annual Giving Garden at The Centers at St. Camillus in Syracuse has taken
root and is thriving, thanks to generous donors in support of The Center’s mission
of caring for life.
The Annual Giving Garden is a series of colorful murals that beautify the walls in
the lobby and hallways of St. Camillus for all to enjoy. When an individual or group
makes a tax-deductible gift of at least $50 to the Annual Giving Garden, a leaf or
flower personalized with their name or a brief sentiment is added to the garden for
one year. Several donors have chosen to give in honor of a special someone or group,
while others have given in memory of a loved one.
The Centers at St. Camillus chose a garden theme for its fundraising initiative because
of the universal appeal of flowers and other elements found in nature. St. Camillus also
wanted to create something visually pleasing and special to inspire and add to the overall
quality of life of their older adult residents, patients, and their families, as well as other
visitors and staff.
Michael Connor, relationship development coordinator at The Centers at St. Camillus,
said, “Every time we visit our lobby or hallways to add a newly donated leaf or flower to
the Annual Giving Garden, dozens of passers-by stop us to remark how much they love
the garden, and how beautiful and novel it is. Everyone’s spirits are immediately uplifted
and it sparks a meaningful, engaging conversations between generations of viewers.”
Funds raised will help make necessary improvements to The Centers at St. Camillus,
a not-for-profit organization. The current focus is to replace two elevators, which will
make transporting residents, patients and Adult Day Health program registrants to
therapy sessions, meals and events easier, safer and more efficient.
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Adviser a publication of LeadingAge New York | Fall 2015