By Michael E. McRae
President & CEO, St. Ann’s Community
June 29th, 2026
One of the best parts of my job is seeing the connections that form within our community.
Recently, I was reflecting on the story of a woman named Rita.
Nearly 10 years ago, Rita moved to Cherry Ridge after her longtime friend and neighbor Betty moved in. Today, Betty is celebrating her 100th birthday and still lives at Cherry Ridge.
Over the years, Rita‘s family became connected to our community as well. Her husband lived at St. Ann’s Home nearly 15 years ago, and Rita also volunteered here. During the pandemic, her daughter Amy worked as a nurse at St. Ann’s Care Center. Another daughter, Nancy, moved into a Cherry Ridge cottage to be closer to both her mother and her husband, Bob.
When Rita passed away in May, Nancy shared how grateful she was that her mother, husband, and family could all remain close to one another during an important time in their lives.
What strikes me about this story is how one connection led to another. A friendship brought someone to Cherry Ridge. That decision helped keep a family close through different stages of life.
That’s what community is all about.
It’s people staying connected to the ones they love. It’s being nearby when it matters most. And it’s the relationships that grow along the way.
Sometimes the impact of a community isn’t measured in years lived here, buildings occupied, or services provided. It’s measured in friendships that endure, families that stay connected, and the comfort of knowing you’re not alone.
Stories like Rita‘s remind me that connections are often what matters most.