For more than a decade, VMRC has joined hands with James Madison University’s choral music education program to create something truly special, the Intergenerational Choir.

There was something unmistakably special in the air the evening our community gathered for the 2025 Celebration of Lights. Presented by the VMRC Foundation, the program celebrates the light of those who have gone before us, the light of family and friends, and the light of Christ, which guides us.  Words, both spoken and offered through song, created a palpable feeling of energy, inspiration and joy for audience members.

When Abe and Ruth Rittenhouse moved to VMRC, they discovered something they hadn’t expected: their world grew larger, not smaller. “When I came to VMRC, I gained more than I gave up,” Abe reflects.

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.

Last month, we kicked off Active Aging Week with another successful Wellness Fair. The annual event serves as a celebration for our community to come together and celebrate our residents living vibrant, active lives on campus.

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.

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.

Nestled in the beauty of the Shenandoah Valley, Hilltop Reflections offers something rare in today’s world: a space of quiet peace, open skies and spiritual connection. One resident described it simply: “It’s just so beautiful, and God’s presence is here. It’s a sacred place.”

Every year, when the Rockingham County Fair opens its gates, something special unfolds for VMRC residents and the volunteers who join them. What might appear to be a simple outing quickly becomes a day filled with connection. It is a reminder that the gift of time and presence can create joy that lingers well beyond the afternoon.

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.

VMRC supports initiatives that enhance children’s abilities and ensure they have the resources they need to thrive.

This spring, VMRC residents enjoyed the Upbeat Downtown Music Series held at  Court Square Theater in Harrisonburg. The VMRC-sponsored lineup of talented musicians covered the music of Simon & Garfunkel, Johnny Cash, Taylor Swift and others.