Penick Village celebrated its 45th anniversary Saturday, April 18, with a family-style picnic for the residents, staff, and family members of Penick Village.

The picnic began with a blessing from the Penick Village Chaplain, the Rev. Patsy Smith, and a gracious welcome from Jeff Hutchins, CEO. A colorful array of beautiful spring foliage, sunny blue skies, checkered tablecloths, the smell of Carolina barbecue, and the sound of big band-era music all helped make this delightful 45-year celebration a memorable one.

The front lawn of the North Building was converted into a festive gathering with more than 300 attendees coming out to enjoy the event. After lunch, Hutchins noted the wonderful turn out for the event on such a beautiful day.

"The Penick Village mission is to create a loving community by nurturing the mind, body, and spirit," Hutchins said. "We believe the most important part of our mission is the people. The residents, their families, board members, foundation trustees, Friends of Penick, volunteers, staff, and their families that together all help bring this mission to life."

He talked about the exciting new expansion phase for the campus that will include a Garden Cottage house dedicated for assisted-living, and a new apartment building and Village House Community Center.

"Although the campus is changing with new growth, our values and mission of Penick Village will remain strong," said Hutchins. "Thank you for helping us share in this celebration today and making this ministry possible."

During the event, three speakers shared their experiences at Penick Village with the picnic attendees. A 13-year resident, Mary Frances Coxe said, "It's been a delightful life experience to be here at Penick Village." She elaborated that in the fall of 2007 her health slipped, and she needed to move from an independent living situation to one offering more assistance. The staff helped her through this transition.

"I am just so thankful that I am here at Penick Village," she said.

Next speaker was Bill Stark, a 12-year resident of Penick Village. He shared that after living at Penick Village for five years, a tragic event impacted his life. During that difficult time the Penick Village family was extremely supportive.

"The residents and staff have treated me so well here over the years that I do consider them like my second family," said Stark. "It's just been a wonderful experience living here at Penick Village."

"Penick Village truly is about people making this ministry happen, said John Greern, a Penick board member. "Congratulations to everyone at Penick Village on 45 years of loving service."

Hutchins concluded by thanking all the residents, families, volunteers, staff, board members, and "Everyone that helps us fulfill the mission of Penick Village. We are so very blessed to have you in our lives."

As the event continued, children enjoyed participating in a variety of outdoor games for prizes and all attendees had fun taking turns getting rides around the Penick campus in the beautiful antique convertibles on loan from Representative Jamie Boles.

Mary E. Petersen is the community relations and development director for Penick Village.