‘Light Up a Life’ at Cortland Acres

The generosity of local residents has made it possible for the Friends of Cortland Acres to give back in many ways, and the group is asking for the community’s help again this year.

‘Light Up a Life,’ which is underway at Cortland Acres, represents the largest fund-raiser each year for the Friends of Cortland Acres. Last year the volunteer organization raised more than $5,000, said Nancy Moore, president of the Friends of Cortland Acres.

Supporters are invited to ‘Light Up a Life’ by purchasing a bulb in memory or honor of a loved one for the 2021 Christmas tree for $5 each. A limited number of spots on the special treetop star also are available for $50 each.

To donate, mail a check to Cortland Acres, 39 Cortland Acres Lane, Thomas, WV 26292. “Please make sure to include the name(s) of those you are donating in memory or honor of,” Moore said.

The donations through the Friends of Cortland Acres tree help pay for many special projects for the residents throughout the year. Moore said that past projects include mini-massages, magazine subscriptions, monthly theme dinners, pizza parties and flowers for the courtyard.

“These funds also help us pay for regular resident outings such as the movies, ice cream and fishing trips,” Moore said. “We sponsor bingo every month, and that’s something the residents truly love. We also purchase each resident a gift from Santa Claus to open Christmas morning.”

The special ‘Light Up a Life’ virtual ceremony to light the tree is set for Wednesday, Dec. 8 at Cortland Acres. It will be posted online afterward for people to view. The names of all honorees are read during the ceremony and will be printed in a book placed in the dining room.

Moore hopes the Friends of Cortland Acres can resume the monthly resident outings and meetings at the beginning of the new year.

“We would love to have more members in our Friends group,” Moore said. “It’s a great way to give back to the community, and the residents really enjoy our activities.”

The Cortland Acres campus includes a 94-bed long-term care facility, inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation, and programs, rental apartments in Pineview and homes in The Pines. For more information on the ‘Light Up a Life’ event or to join the Friends of Cortland Acres, call 304-463-4181 or visit www.cortlandacres.org.