VOLUNTEERING GIVES MEANING TO RETIREMENT

Experts tell us that an increasing number of Americans can expect to live as many retirement years as they have had in their vocational careers. On this “second time round”, retirees are not seeking financial benefit and career advancement. Many, having secured a measure of financial freedom, now seek to invest their time in activities that bring lasting meaning and purpose. They realize that finding a passion for making a difference “makes all the difference” in both their emotional and physical well being.

Ms. Jill Growney, a 21 year resident of Christian City, embodies this growing trend among seniors. “While I was working as a teacher, my life was busy with the responsibilities of my job – classroom, conferences, lesson plans. I did not have much of a concept for my retirement years other than some traveling – but that is no longer the case,” she stated. Ms. Growney notes that her life has certainly changed for the good since having the time and opportunity to invest in the lives of others; “I had always been a people person, yet after the death of my husband I found myself alone. In spending my time investing in the needs of others, I have found new ways.. meaningful ways, to enjoy my life."

Indeed Ms. Growney has! In addition to the recreational activities she enjoys, her desire to serve others has brought her into (among others) a meaningful role as a volunteer chaplain to the Christian City community. For over ten years, her love of ministry has been evident as she has led a weekly bible study for those who suffer from Alzheimer's disease. She warms the room with her bright smile and residents look forward to hearing her uplifting message each week. She expressed, “My service as a volunteer has definitely changed me – I find so much enjoyment and purpose in helping others. My life now has a new sense of worth. ”I recently started square dance lessons – I say to myself....“I can’t believe I am doing this!”

Located on a beautiful 500 acre campus in Union City, Christian City is home to over 1,000 senior residents and is always in need of enthusiastic volunteers like Ms. Growney. In addition to being an active retirement community, Christian City offers housing for those on limited income, assisted living, nursing and rehabilitation, convalescent care and care for those who suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. Less fortunate children also live on campus at The Children's Village. For more information or a free tour please call 770-703-2600 or access www.christiancity.org
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Huge Tent Sale at Christian City

On Friday, May 9th from 9am to 2pm. Christian City is hosting a huge tent sale at the baseball field on their campus, next to Graceland Thrift Store at 7345 Red Oak Road, in Union City. Brand new merchandise will be sold at bargain prices including storage rooms full of area rugs, home and garden decor, grills and patio accessories and much more. Proceeds will benefit the abandoned and abused children who live in The Children's Village. For more information call Mike Cater at 770-969-9957. For more information on Christian City and their ministries for children and seniors, call 770-703-2636 or access www.christiancity.org.

Congressman Westmoreland Addresses Senior Issues at Chamber Luncheon

Recently Congressman Lynn Westmoreland was the guest speaker at a legislative luncheon hosted by the Newnan Chamber of Commerce.

High on the list of topics discussed were issues affecting seniors.

Bob Crutchfield (left), President/CEO of Christian City, a senior community with over 1,000 residents located in Union City, and Congressman Westmoreland share a moment afterwards.

Christian City is a non-denominational, non-profit, with a mission to minister to the needs of families with particular emphasis on children, the aged and the infirm, by providing high quality, efficient, effective and affordable residential, health and social services delivered in accordance with the principles of the teachings of Jesus Christ.