UMC and the UMC Foundation (UMCF) have been recognized with three Merit Awards in the 2026 National Mature Media Awards, honoring communications that celebrate the relationships, stories, and generosity that strengthen their shared mission.
Presented annually by the Mature Market Resource Center, the National Mature Media Awards recognize outstanding communications and educational materials created for older adults. This year's recognition reflects UMC and UMCF's commitment to using meaningful storytelling to foster connection, inspire engagement, and build lasting relationships across the communities they serve.
Merit Award – Web-Based Social Media: Pitman Manor Facebook Page
The Pitman Manor Facebook page received a Merit Award in the Web-Based Social Media category, recognizing the collaborative efforts of Pitman Manor teammates and UMC's marketing and communications team.
Through an intentional focus on authentic storytelling, the page highlights resident life, teammate engagement, volunteerism, and everyday moments that showcase the vibrant spirit of the community. The award reflects an ongoing commitment to sharing the stories that make Pitman Manor a place where people feel connected, welcomed, and proud to belong.
Merit Award – Magazine: Engage! Vol 14 Issue 1: "Side by Side, Story by Story"
Engage! magazine earned a Merit Award in the Magazine category for its Side by Side, Story by Story issue, produced in partnership with Masterpiece Marketing.
Centered on the theme of connection, this issue explored the meaningful relationships that flourish throughout UMC communities—from neighbors welcoming new residents to teammates forming lasting bonds with the people they serve. Through thoughtful storytelling, Engage! celebrates the people, experiences, and moments that exemplify abundant life, helping readers deepen their engagement with the shared mission of UMC and the UMC Foundation.
Merit Award – Brochure: UMC Foundation Board Member Brochure
Created in partnership with Princeton Strategic Communications (PSC), the brochure was developed to support the recruitment and onboarding of Foundation trustees while providing a lasting resource for board members.
The publication introduces readers to the Foundation's mission, history, fundraising priorities, financial stewardship, and the many ways philanthropy enhances the lives of older adults served by UMC. It also highlights stories of impact that demonstrate how generosity helps create opportunities for residents, associates, and communities to thrive.
"At their core, every story we share is an opportunity to help someone feel connected—whether that's a resident finding community, a searching family learning who we are, a committed donor seeing the impact of their generosity, or a volunteer deciding to become involved in our mission,” explained Rebecca Roe, Senior Director, UMC Foundation.
“These awards are especially meaningful because they recognize the importance of those connections and the way thoughtful communications help bring our mission to life. Whether shared through a social media post, the pages of a magazine, or a resource for future leaders, our stories help people feel connected to each other and to the work that unites UMC and the UMC Foundation."
