Environmental Wellness
July 2026
Welcome to the July edition of The Junction! This month at Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community (VMRC), we celebrate Environmental Wellness by embracing the spaces, experiences, and relationships that help us thrive. From outdoor gatherings and scenic excursions to inspiring performances, lifelong learning, and opportunities for worship and fellowship, July is filled with meaningful ways to enjoy the beauty of the season and experience life together.
View the July Junction
Featured Community Events
Celebrate summer with special gatherings that bring residents together while honoring community, tradition, and connection.
Free On-Campus Car Wash: Passport Summer Camp youth will provide complimentary car washes on July 1 at 1:30 PM.
U.S. 250th Celebration Dinner: Enjoy a festive meal with live music from the Nickel Plate Brass Quintet on July 2 at 5:00 PM.
Trivia with Dr. Kyle: Test your knowledge with a United States-themed trivia competition on July 3 at 10:00 AM.
Building Belonging Series: Join Dan Shenk as he shares his memoir and personal journey on July 15 at 2:00 PM.
Town Hall Meeting: Hear updates from VMRC leadership and participate in a resident Q&A on July 21 at 1:30 PM.
Main Street Buzz: Stay informed about campus happenings and upcoming events on July 31 at 11:00 AM.
Arts & Creativity
Enjoy music, art, and hands-on creative experiences throughout the month.
Piano Music with Kathleen Haddad: Enjoy an afternoon of favorite hymns, oldies, and sing-alongs on July 2 at 3:00 PM.
Black Nature Poetics Workshop: Explore poetry inspired by the natural world with the JMU Furious Flower Poetry Center on July 10.
Shenandoah Ukulele Players Concert: Experience an afternoon of lively music on July 10 at 2:00 PM.
Paint & Sip: Create your own artwork during a guided painting session on July 20 at 2:00 PM.
Resident & Staff Art Show: Prepare for this annual celebration of artistic talent with registration on July 29.
Wellness, Worship & Reflection
Nurture your physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being through opportunities designed to support healthy living and meaningful reflection.
Beginner Pilates: Improve strength, flexibility, posture, and balance during the six-week class beginning July 6.
Sunday Worship: Gather each Sunday at 10:00 AM in Strite Auditorium for worship and fellowship.
Hilltop Reflections: Experience music, prayer, and quiet reflection at the Farm at Willow Run on July 15.
Communion Service: All are welcome for worship, fellowship, and communion on July 16.
Prayer Meeting & Bible Studies: Continue growing in faith through weekly opportunities for prayer and Bible study.
Explore the Shenandoah Valley
Take advantage of summer with outings that celebrate the region's beauty, history, and local culture.
Celebrate America! Concert: Attend a patriotic performance celebrating our nation's 250th anniversary on July 3.
Smith House Gallery & Kline's Dairy Bar: Enjoy local art followed by a sweet treat on July 7.
Country Drive: Relax and take in the scenic countryside on July 8.
Sunspots Glassblowing Studio: Watch skilled artisans at work before enjoying lunch in Staunton on July 23.
Life Together at VMRC
Community is built through everyday moments, shared interests, and meaningful friendships. Throughout July, residents can continue enjoying recurring favorites that make campus life vibrant and engaging.
VMRC Farmers Market: Shop fresh produce from the Farm at Willow Run along with local vendors throughout the month.
Village Coffee Hour: Connect with neighbors every Wednesday morning.
Silver Serenaders: Enjoy live music each Wednesday afternoon in the Park Gables Lobby.
Art Makers Tuesdays: Explore creativity with fellow residents on July 21.
5 Crown, Mexican Train Dominoes & Knitting/Crochet Group: Join weekly games and hobby groups that foster friendship and fun.