Letter from our CEO (January 2024)

I am pleased to share some of Morningside’s major accomplishments in 2023, and a few goals for 2024. All of this and more is made possible by the support of a generous community, dedicated team members, volunteer leaders and the amazing residents we serve.

Looking Back

1. Road Map to the Future

The Morningside Ministries Board approved a new five-year strategic plan. We are charting a course toward sustainable growth, enhanced services and serving more older adults.

2. Building the Future of Eldercare at The Meadows

Thanks to our generous supporters, we have raised $9.4 million of the $10 million needed to build four Green House homes to replace our outdated nursing home facility. (Click here for more on Green House Homes.)

3. Breathing New Life into Kaulbach

We secured financing to renovate Morningside’s original building, the 63-year-old Kaulbach Assisted Living Center. This initiative aligns with our commitment to the Meadows community, the surrounding community and to the needs of older adults who need high-quality care, regardless of their ability to pay.

4. Chandler on the Right Track

A dozen new residents moved into our redeveloped Chandler Estate in the fourth quarter, bringing occupancy levels to operational stability. The property draws people to live here for different reasons; one of my recent favorites came from a resident who said, “It is so fun living here—like a cross between a sorority house and a cruise ship!”

5. Hiring and Keeping Great Staff

Our staffing pool, managed by Vanessa Ramirez and Valentina Reyes, allowed us to virtually move away from costly agency staffing. This program enhances operational efficiency and, more importantly, the consistent quality of care our residents deserve.

Looking Ahead

1. Training Staff in the Green House Model

The Green House Project model introduces a new culture of work as well as culture of care. This model requires a great deal of front-end and ongoing training. This process has begun, and it promises to make Morningside an even more desirable place to work and live.

2. Serving More Seniors Through Partnerships

The need for home health, hospice and various models of home care are expected to grow. Morningside continues to explore a joint venture and other partnerships to achieve sustainable, mission-driven growth in these service areas.

3. Growing Generosity to Meet Growing Needs

More elders are expected to find themselves among the forgotten middle: those who have too much to qualify for affordable housing, but not enough to afford the full cost of senior housing—especially in assisted living and long-term care. A new strategic fund development plan aims to grow philanthropic support in ways that are meaningful to Morningside and donors alike.

Why our residents love us

My parents moved into their Meadows independent living (atrium) apartment almost 2 years ago, from another city. Their (and our) experience here has exceeded our highest hopes. From the compassionate, friendly, helpful staff to the delicious meals, activities, their apartment, amenities, and welcoming residents, we could not have imagined or found a better place for them to be for this season of life! We 5 "kids" are so thankful that they are happy, safe, comfortable, busy, and have made wonderful new friends, both residents and staff. Thank you, MM! It's definitely worth checking out for YOUR parents, too. (Or yourself!)

I learned about Morningside Ministries at Menger Springs when two of my neighbors moved there. Another friend and I frequently drove from our home in Kerrville to visit and play bridge with them. I don't think we ever left that one of us didn't say " I'd like to live here someday." When I realized that "someday" was fast approaching I started visiting retirement communities in several places, including my former home in Colorado where I still had close friends. None of them were as attractive physically as Morningside and none offered as much in the way of programs and services. I chose Morningside for three basic reasons: security, convenience and the sense of a caring community. I have the security of knowing that I will always be cared for, the convenience of having all my needs met in one place and the joy of living in a community where everyone, residents and staff, are considered as family.

My wife and I have been residents in the Independent Living Menger House Apartments at Morningside Ministries at Menger Springs for four years. We chose Menger Springs because of its Hill Country location, excellent and beautiful facilities along with their commitment to personal care and to truly care for those who have cared for so many others by a Not For Profit Christian Corporation. We knew that regardless of what challenges or changes we might meet in the days and years ahead, Menger Springs would be able to provide the care for us. My wife feels so secure here and has the option of participating in so many activities, pursue individual endeavors or to feel free to remain in our apartment. We are so pleased to be residents at Morningside Ministries Menger Springs in beautiful Boerne! I highly recommend it!

Reach Out to Morningside Ministries

Fill in your contact information to learn more about Morningside Ministries and all we offer.

Reach Out to Morningside Ministries

Fill in your contact information to learn more about Morningside Ministries and all we offer.