CELEBRATING COMMUNITY, CONNECTION & CARE
May is full of reasons to celebrate at Warm Hearth Village! Inside this issue, you’ll find ways to get involved, stay active, and connect. We invite you to join us, experience our community, and see what makes the Village truly feel like home.
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BEST OF VIRGINIA
We’re thrilled to share that Warm Hearth Village has been voted one of the Best Retirement Communities in the Southwest Region by Virginia Living Magazine in its annual Best of Virginia issue!
This recognition comes from more than 40,000 readers across the Commonwealth who cast their votes to spotlight the very best businesses, restaurants, and service providers in each region.
We’re also proud to celebrate that The Treasure Trove, our nonprofit thrift store, and Warm Hearth at Home were recognized as winners as well!
Thank you to everyone who voted and continues to support the mission and heart of our Village. We’re honored to be part of such a vibrant and caring community.
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A SAFETY NET WHEN IT’S NEEDED MOST
Each year, Warm Hearth Village provides more than $1.2 million in charitable care, supporting an average of 29 residents each month who might otherwise face the uncertainty of losing the place they call home. For residents like Mary, who faced that very reality after a long illness, the Brian H. Smith Benevolence Endowment made it possible to stay—surrounded by familiar faces, daily routines, and a community that cares.
It’s more than financial support—it’s a promise. A promise that even in life’s most difficult seasons, there is a safety net. A promise that home remains.
Show you care. Join our mission.
Press the donate button below to make your gift—and be the reason generosity blooms.
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CONNECTIONS SERIES: EDUCATION, CONVERSATION & COMMUNITY
Join us this May for a variety of engaging programs designed to inspire learning, spark creativity, and foster meaningful connection. All events are free and open to everyone and take place at the Village Center (2387 Warm Hearth Drive, Blacksburg).
Understanding Lymphedema
Monday, May 11 | 10:00 AM
Join Abigail Hickman, DPT, and Rebecca Neal, PYA CLT COS, for an engaging and informative session on lymphedema. Learn how to recognize symptoms, explore simple exercises, and discover practical ways to manage and improve daily comfort. You’ll leave with helpful tips and resources you can use right away.
The Cattle of VT: Explore the Virginia Tech Beef Program
Tuesday, May 12 | 11:00 AM
Join us for an engaging and educational presentation with Dr. Dan Eversole, Director of Beef Cattle Programs at Virginia Tech. Learn about the cattle that call VT home—including Angus, Hereford, Charolais, and Simmental breeds—and how they support teaching, research, and outreach.
UTIs – Small Infection, Big Impact
Thursday, May 21 | 2:30 PM
Join us for a clear, practical look at urinary tract health in older adults with Dr. Ronald Januchowski, D.O., FACOFP. Learn how UTIs can present differently in seniors, including subtle warning signs like confusion, fatigue, or falls. We’ll also cover prevention strategies, hydration, and how to advocate for proper care.
How to Be BearWise: Living with Black Bears
Friday, May 22 | 2:00 PM
Join us for an informative and engaging presentation on living safely alongside one of Virginia’s most fascinating wildlife species—the Black Bear. Carol Kauffman, Certified Virginia Master Naturalist, will share practical, proven ways to avoid human-bear conflicts while helping keep bears wild.
Smart Ways to Plan Ahead: RMDs & QCDs
Wednesday, May 27 | 10:00 AM
Join Trevor Gray of Kingsview Partners for an interactive discussion on smart strategies for retirement withdrawals, including Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) and Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs). Learn how to lower taxable income, understand important deadlines, and simplify the process each year.
Please RSVP to Dominique at dharder@warmhearth.org or 540-443-3406.
Boxing Seminar with Pro MMA Fighter Robbie Ring
Thursday, May 28 | 3:00 PM
Step into the ring and experience the thrill of training like a pro! This high-energy boxing seminar is your chance to learn real techniques, build confidence, and challenge yourself in a fun and supportive environment. All skill levels are welcome—just bring your energy!
We hope you’ll join us this month to learn something new, meet new people, and stay connected.
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HONORING A TRANSFORMATIONAL GIFT: THE AVERY GYM
The Warm Hearth Foundation is proud to recognize the extraordinary generosity of residents Roger and Bobbi Avery, whose recent leadership gift will have a lasting impact on the lives of seniors at Warm Hearth Village.
In appreciation, the gym at the Fitness Center will be named The Avery Gym—a tribute to their commitment to health, wellness, and community.
Their investment supports the vitality and wellbeing of our residents, enhancing fitness opportunities and strengthening key initiatives across campus. This gift also builds on the generosity of Joe and Jan Blum, whose contributions helped establish the cardio and strength areas and provide essential equipment over the years.
Beyond their philanthropy, the Averys are dedicated advocates and volunteers within our community. We are deeply grateful for their generosity and proud to celebrate their lasting legacy at Warm Hearth Village.
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Join us at the Huckleberry Café for good food, great music, and even better company—we’ll save you a seat!
Fabulous Friday Breakfast Buffet
8 – 10 AM | $8.70 (tax included)
Start your Friday mornings with a warm, satisfying breakfast and a rotating lineup of favorites—served fresh and made to order!
May 8: Pancakes Made to Order
May 15: Biscuits & Gravy
May 22: Eggs Benedict
May 29: Build Your Own Omelet
Magic Monday Dinner
Monday, May 18 | 4 – 6 PM | $8.70 (tax included)
Ease into your week with great food and live music in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Live Music: Bobby Parker
Menu: Baked chicken Cordon Bleu, scalloped potatoes, and a summer squash & zucchini medley
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MORE THAN CARE: WHAT HOSPICE REALLY MEANS
When many people hear hospice, they think of endings. But it’s really about something more—comfort, connection, and making every moment matter.
It’s the nurse who takes time to listen.The caregiver who brings calm into the room. The reassurance that no one is walking this journey alone.
Hospice care shifts the focus—from treatment to comfort, from worry to peace. Our team supports patients and families every step of the way, helping manage pain, offering 2387emotional care, and creating space for meaningful moments.
And for families, it brings something just as important: peace of mind.
Knowing someone is there. Anytime.
Because every moment matters—and no one should face it alone.
For those who would like to learn more, we invite you to join us for a Hospice Information Session on Tuesday, May 19 at 1 PM at The Village Center (2387 Warm Hearth Drive, Blacksburg.) This informal session will provide an opportunity to better understand hospice care and ask questions in a welcoming setting. Light refreshments will be provided.
To learn more, contact Kimberly Nichols, Hospice Director of Nursing at 540-443-3422.
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MEMORIAL DAY BAND CONCERT
Join us for a beloved Warm Hearth Village tradition as the Blacksburg Community Band returns for their annual Memorial Day Concert.
With over 100 musicians, this powerful performance brings patriotic favorites, timeless classics, and a wonderful sense of community together for a truly memorable afternoon.
Bring your camping chairs, find a spot outside, and enjoy music, connection, and a moment to reflect and honor those who have served.
Sunday, May 24 at 1:00 PM
Village Center Green Space (2387 Warm Hearth Drive, Blacksburg)
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MEAT YOUR MATCH
Trying to hit your protein goals? You’re not alone—protein helps keep you full and energized. But not all meat is created equal. Some cuts and preparations can be high in saturated fat and sodium, which may impact heart health over time.
The good news? You don’t have to give up meat—just choose it wisely.
Go lean
Look for cuts like sirloin, tenderloin, or “round,” and choose ground meat that’s 90% lean or higher. Less visible fat = better for your heart.
Think skinless
Chicken or turkey breast is one of the leanest options. Prefer dark meat? Enjoy it in moderation and skip the skin.
Trim & cook smart
Cut off visible fat and opt for grilling, baking, broiling, or air frying. Boost flavor with herbs, spices, citrus, or olive oil instead of heavy sauces.
Limit processed meats
Bacon, sausage, and deli meats are best as occasional treats due to higher sodium and preservatives.
Mix it up
Balance your plate with other protein sources like fish, beans, lentils, eggs, or tofu.
Simple rule of thumb:
Choose lean, skip the skin, and keep portions about the size of your palm.
Small changes can make a big difference—and still taste great!
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TURNING PLASTIC INTO PURPOSE
What if your grocery bag could become a place to sit, rest, and connect?
At Warm Hearth Village, it has.
Since 2020, our resident-led Green Committee has helped recycle more than 8,000 pounds of plastic—turning it into 13 outdoor benches across campus. That’s over 640,000 plastic bags kept out of landfills.
Through the Trex Community Challenge, everyday items like plastic film and packaging are transformed into something lasting—creating spaces where neighbors gather and community grows.
This initiative has sparked a culture of sustainability throughout the Village—from recycling programs and pollinator gardens to energy-saving efforts and waste reduction in dining. It’s a shared commitment embraced by residents, staff, and the broader community.
Each bench tells a story—not just of recycling, but of what’s possible when a community comes together with purpose.
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WE LOVE OUR NURSES!
Join us in celebrating nurses everywhere during National Nurses Week, May 6–12! Warm Hearth Village and Warm Hearth at Home family are proud to be home to more than 50 incredible nurses.
Thank you for your unwavering commitment to providing exceptional care. Your dedication keeps our community healthy, safe, and supported every day.
Take a moment to show your appreciation—and don’t forget to give a nurse a hug!
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NEW FACES & NEW ROLES
Christina Johnson joins Warm Hearth Village as our new Senior HR Generalist. In this role, she will oversee recruitment, onboarding, compliance, and training—helping ensure our team members have the resources and support they need to succeed. Christina is passionate about building strong workplace relationships and looks forward to fostering an engaged, mission-driven workforce across campus.
We are also excited to announce the promotion of Marcus Burks to Fitness Director. In his new role, Marcus will continue to expand and enhance our fitness and wellness programming, supporting residents of all ability levels in staying active and engaged.
In addition, we are pleased to share that Gabe Martin has stepped into the role of Healthcare Maintenance Supervisor. In this position, Gabe will oversee maintenance regulatory and compliance efforts for both Kroontje Health Care Center and Showalter Center, with maintenance teams at both locations reporting directly to him. He will play a key role in ensuring safe, efficient, and well-maintained environments for our residents and staff.
Please join us in welcoming Christina and congratulating Marcus and Gabe on their new roles!
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