Parkvue Community at Catawba Island Receives Grant from County Community Foundation 

United Church Homes (UCH), based in Marion, Ohio, is pleased to announce that The Parkvue Community on Catawba Island in Port Clinton, Ohio, has received a $2,000 grant award from the Ottawa County Community Foundation (OCCF) to support enhancements to the assisted living outdoor deck, a popular gathering space for residents and their families.

The Ottawa County Community Foundation is a public charitable organization created by the citizens of Ottawa County to enrich the quality of life for individuals and families throughout the region. Through grants supporting education, health and social services, economic development, natural resources and the arts, OCCF invests in projects that strengthen local communities and improve quality of life.

The grant will help fund tables and chairs for the outdoor gathering space at The Parkvue Community on Catawba Island.

“We are grateful to the Ottawa County Community Foundation for recognizing the importance of creating spaces that foster connection and engagement for older adults,” said Paul Shaw, administrator of The Parkvue Community on Catawba Island. “This outdoors space plays a vital role in the daily lives of our residents, providing opportunities for conversation, friendship and meaningful interactions with family members and fellow residents.”

The assisted living neighborhood serves older adults from Port Clinton, Catawba Island and Marblehead. As a smaller assisted living community, residents often depend on shared spaces that naturally encourage social interaction and engagement throughout the day.

Over the past decade, philanthropic support totaling approximately $27,200 has helped transform the outdoor deck into one of the community’s most valued amenities. Previous investments funded the construction of the deck, installation of a retractable awning and the purchase of initial outdoor furnishings. The new grant award will build upon those improvements and further enhance the resident experience.

Research has consistently shown that social isolation can negatively impact older adults, contributing to depression, cognitive decline and other adverse health outcomes. Accessible outdoor spaces provide important opportunities for residents to gather, enjoy fresh air and maintain meaningful social connections.

“The generosity of community partners like the Ottawa County Community Foundation helps us create environments where older adults can thrive,” said Gloria Hurwitz, UCH vice president of advancement. “These enhancements will support daily engagement, strengthen resident relationships and help ensure this community remains a welcoming and vibrant place to call home.”