By: Samantha Crawford, Corporate Director of Communications, UMC
There’s no “I” in team – and that’s exactly why we believe it’s essential to hear from everyone who makes UMC extraordinary, especially the teammates who directly serve our residents day in and day out.
That’s the spirit behind our Food for Thought series, a tradition we’ve proudly continued since 2022. During each session, members of our senior leadership team travel to our senior living communities to cook and serve breakfast or lunch, connect with teammates, listen to their insights, and learn more about how we can better support them in their vital roles.
Our latest trip brought UMC's President & CEO, Mark Lenhard; David Glenn, Senior Vice President for People and Culture; Dave Rayha, Vice President of Operations; Bob Peterson, Chief Financial Officer; and others to Pitman Manor in Gloucester County, New Jersey last week.
With the “Big Game” just days away, the group arrived decked out in their favorite football jerseys, adding a fun dose of friendly rivalry — and plenty of team spirit — to the morning. They prepared football-shaped French Toast, scrambled eggs, sausage and fresh fruit. The irresistible savory smell of sausage wafting down the hallway even encouraged residents to stop by our event!
“There’s no better way to look into the future and understand how we can best serve our residents than by speaking with the people who are there every day caring, listening, and building relationships,” says Lenhard. “Their experience guides our path forward.”
Glenn adds, “Food for Thought is not only fun, but very rewarding. Servant leadership, diversity of ideas, and inclusion are at the root of who we are, and when teammates from every background and every role share their voices, we grow stronger — together.”
The visit was filled with smiles and meaningful conversations — but most importantly, it reinforced the heart of UMC: people caring for people, lifting each other up, and working as one team to serve our mission.
Until the next Food for Thought…Go team!
