Blogs
A Family Legacy of Care & Compassion
The story of the Wenger and Showalter families is one of enduring care and dedication that spans generations. It began with George B. Showalter, a visionary businessman of faith, who set aside a portion of his estate to establish the Virginia Mennonite Home, laying the foundation for what is now VMRC.
Purpose, Mentorship and Opportunity on the Nursing Journey
Nurses are at the heart of everything at VMRC. Their compassion and dedication make it possible for residents to live comfortably. Without our nursing team, the community simply wouldn’t function. It’s their commitment and care that create the strong foundation VMRC is built upon.
Building a Future of Care and Compassion
Across Virginia, the population is aging rapidly. By 2030, one in five Virginians will be 65 or older, and in rural areas, about 30% of residents will be 60 and older. As the number of older adults grows, challenges such as housing affordability, access to nutritious food and social isolation become more pressing.
Giving Wisely in Changing Times: Year-End Strategies for Seniors
The third installment of a three-part financial education series, this event focused on how the new federal tax bill affects retirees and charitable givers.
Beyond the Basics: Smarter Strategies for Medicare and Healthcare Costs
Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community Foundation hosted “Beyond the Basics: Smarter Strategies for Medicare and Healthcare Costs” in partnership with Everence Financial. This event was the second presentation created for residents, community members and donors.
A Legacy of Compassion: VMRC’s Showalter Donors
When George Branner Showalter included a $1,000 gift in his will “for the building of a home for the elderly,” he likely couldn’t have imagined the lasting impact it would have. His son, M.C. Showalter, brought that vision to life in 1954 with the help of friends and neighbors, opening what is now known as VMRC. M.C. served as president of the Board of Directors until 1965, helping to establish a strong foundation for a community built on compassion and service.
Recipients of the Inaugural VMRC Mary Reitz Nursing Scholarship Announced
Three talented and determined individuals stood out from among forty-two aspiring nurses to receive funds through the VMRC Mary Reitz Nursing Scholarship. Kashif Polous-Masih and Daniela Montero Ruiz, both Certified Nursing Assistants at VMRC, and Faith Sisler, who will enter Eastern Mennonite University in the fall, are the first to receive this award.
Everence CIO Chad Horning Addresses Economic Outlook Amid Public Uncertainty
In the first of a series of financial seminars to be held at VMRC, Chad Horning, Chief Investment Officer for Everence Financial based in Goshen, Indiana, presented a detailed analysis of today’s economic climate and how it could affect your wallet and investment portfolio.
Compassion in Action: The Great Community Give 2025
At VMRC, we believe in the quiet strength of compassion. It's not just a word we use; it's a value we put into action every day through the relationships we build, the care we provide, and the way we honor the lives of the residents in our community.
NEW SCHOLARSHIP ANNOUNCED TO PROPEL NURSING CAREERS AND MEET GROWING HEALTHCARE DEMANDS
New Nursing Scholarship to Grow Carers & Enhance Nursing Workforce.
An Ageless Legacy: Reflections on VMRC’s 70 Years
In a heartfelt and memorable evening, VMRC recently celebrated its 70th year of serving the community with an event that brought together guests, residents, staff members and descendants of our community’s pioneers to share reflections and stories about VMRC.
How Volunteering Can Change Lives
When you volunteer at VMRC, you’re more than just providing company and support for our residents; you’re helping to create meaningful life in our community. At VMRC volunteers are able to create real connections with our residents thanks to the authentic and intentional rhythm of daily life at our campus.
Kindling Compassion and Bright Futures: The VMRC Advantage
Entering the healthcare industry and finding a job that offers both flexibility and fulfillment can be a challenge. But for Iris and Echo, two sisters who found their purpose and direction at VMRC, it was a journey worth taking.
Shared Wonder: Experiencing the Eclipse in Our Community
VMRC residents and staff wait for clouds to part to catch a glance of the solar eclipse.
Celebrating Dignity and Compassion: Miriam Baer’s Story
At Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community (VMRC), we are dedicated to treating aging adults with dignity and compassion. Annually, thanks to the remarkable generosity of our donors to the VMRC Foundation, we can extend Compassion Care to 20-30 residents who, through no fault of their own, have exhausted their financial resources.
A Heartwarming Night at VMRC's Celebration of Lights
On December 7th, the VMRC Foundation held its annual Celebration of Lights, a holiday service to honor and remember loved ones. The beautiful evening was filled with music, joy and reflection.
Making an Impact in Our Community
VMRC is not just a place; it's a community, a shared vision, and a source of inspiration.
Celebrating Community, Understanding Memory Loss, and Having Unpredictable Fun: The VMRC Golf Benefit
The VMRC Golf Benefit is not just another golf fundraiser – it’s personal.

