Many of us have causes we have donated to throughout our lifetime to help charities and nonprofits with funding their mission. But have you ever thought about what it would look like to continue that generosity past your lifetime?
In the philanthropy world that is called a planned gift or legacy giving. While donations during your lifetime usually answer the question: “How can I help today?”. Planned or legacy gifts answer the questions: “How can I help tomorrow?” and “How would I like to be remembered?”.
These types of gifts to a charity or non-profit organization are usually in your last will and testament. They can include a piece of property, cash, a percentage of your estate or, in the case of Trinity Woods a donation of your membership fee refund. Legacy gifts play a key role in supporting charitable organizations, that is why the Tin Man Society was created.
“In November the Tin Man Society will celebrate 10 years of people leaving their legacy at Trinity Woods by making a commitment to the future of this organization,” said Steve Dickie, CEO. “Over the years gifts that have come from Tin Man Society members have really allowed Trinity Woods to do great things to continue our mission. These types of gifts are critical to making a difference for years to come.”
The Tin Man Society was established in 2013 by members as a way to ensure the mission of Trinity Woods endures. It is a legacy giving program that recognizes donors who support Trinity Woods through their estate plans, wills or gifts of assets.
If you are interested in becoming a member of the Tin Man Society through a legacy gift, you can learn more about opportunities on page 3 or feel free to reach out to Bonnie Polak at bpolak@trinitywoodstulsa.com or 918.346.6639
Category: Trail Mix Newsletter
Celebrating the Generosity of Legacy Giving
September Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
The Legacy of Trinity Woods!
For more than 65 years, Trinity Woods has been serving people in the spirit of Christ. But that would not have been possible without gracious donors who believed in our mission and purpose. There is not a building on this campus that has not been made possible without philanthropy – Spann Wellness Center, Fleming Center, Holliman Center and the Community Life Center. That kind of true partnership is what makes Trinity Woods special.
“In November the Tin Man Society will celebrate 10 years of people leaving their legacy
at Trinity Woods by making a commitment to the future of this organization,” said Steve
Dickie, CEO. “Over the years gifts that have come from Tin Man Society members have really
allowed Trinity Woods to do great things to continue our mission. These types of gifts are
critical to making a difference for years to come.”
Trinity Woods’ legacy of giving is reflected every day in the dedicated efforts of our Board, employees, community members, and donors who have shaped our community for the better. The power of philanthropy is what changes organizations – some givers may never see their gifts come to fruition but can courageously imagine what is possible. It is the givers who ensure there will always be a home where elders find a life worth living.
September STAR Employee of the Month announced – Heidi!
September Wellness Events
This month we host the Tulsa Community Band in a special outdoor concert. We are excited to welcome Trinity Woods loved ones for the annual Trinity Woods Family Day! In honor of grandparents day, we invite all generation out to see campus and experience a day of fun activities for all ages. Supper & A Show features Reflejos Flamencos an spicy and romantic, Spanish flamenco dancing team. Meet new friends as well as enjoy a casual meal and some great music.
New Neighbors
Meet Duane and Janice!
August Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
The New Indoor Golf Experience at Trinity Woods!
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to play a round of golf at Pebble Beach or St. Andrews, just like the professionals? Well, now you can at Trinity Woods’ new Indoor Golf Experience, located on campus.
“We are so excited to offer this new activity to our residents,” said Steve Dickie, Trinity Woods CEO. “Whether you are an every day golfer, trying to fi ne-tune your swing, or just trying to do something fun with your friends, this is a great opportunity.”
The Indoor Golf Experience features golf simulator technology that is used by novice and professional golfers all over the world. Residents can play a round of golf on one of 25 golf courses, have a long drive contest, or just practice. The golf simulator can also provide immediate swing analysis data such as
angle and speed.
This new experience available at Trinity Woods would not have been possible without the generosity of Rich and Barbara Lilienthal. Be watching for more information on the Indoor Golf Experience location, times of play, and tutorial sessions.
August STAR Employee of the Month are announced – Barbara!
August Wellness Events
There are still amazing summer school classes to experience – Adult VBS, Intro to Mah Jongg, Poetry and more! A great article on summer sun safety you will not want to miss. This month we welcome back Donald Ryan for a special piano concert and there is Supper & A Show. Get out your poodle skirts and Brylcreem and let’s party! We are encouraging people to wear their 1950s attire, if they have it. A good time will be had by all at this relaxed gathering that is a chance to meet new friends as well as enjoy a casual meal and some great music.
New Neighbors
Meet Bob, Garry and Sally!
July Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
Summer School is in Session!
We are excited to announce that the Trinity Woods Summer School sessions are back by popular demand – and there are more options than ever for lifelong learning!
This year will mark the seventh year of Trinity Woods Summer School all taught by our very own community members in July and August.
All the classes will be held on the Trinity Woods campus. The classes are all at different times, which makes it easy to take part in as many classes as you wish. Peruse the
fascinating course offerings and see what you would like to learn more about. Class will soon be in
session!
July STAR Employee of the Month are announced – Angie!
July Wellness Events
In July we will feature young talent from Tulsa with the Young Talent Discover Night and we are excited to welcome back Barron Ryan for a special piano concert. It wouldn’t be the Trinity Woods neighborhood without Supper & A Show. Singer Janet Rutland and her husband, fiddler Shelby Eicher, return for a night of country music with plenty of Patsy Cline. They’ll be joined by Spencer Sutton on piano and Rodney Lay on bass. Join in this relaxed gathering that is a chance to meet new friends as well as enjoy a casual meal and some great music!
New Neighbors
Meet Betty and Dorothy!
Just Another Reason Exercise is Great for You!
By Alison McMillan, Wellness Manager
Scientists have been hard at work researching exercise, knowing that brain health is a top concern among older adults. We’ve seen studies that show that exercise reduces the risk of developing
Alzheimer’s. Imaging studies have shown that the hippocampus (the area of the brain that stores long term memories) is greater in volume in adults aged 59 to 81 who are more aerobically active than those who are not. Those same adults also showed better performance in memory tasks. Lastly, studies have shown exercise can lead to improved learning, attention, and memory for patients with early-stage Alzheimer’s, Schizophrenia, or brain injuries. Overall, studies indicate that exercise is beneficial for
brain health.
But how?
Researchers are studying hormonal and chemical changes in exercising mice, and have seen an increase in a chemical called Irisin, which is produced by muscles during exercise. This chemical was
found to boost protein levels in the hippocampus that promotes neuron growth and health in the brain. Irisin also was found to decrease the inflammation in the brain that causes Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Knowing this, scientists are confident that the effect is similar in humans because the Irisin composition is identical in mice and humans. Studies already show that post exercise, there is a boost of Irisin levels in humans. In examinations of Alzheimer’s patients, Irisin’s precursor protein was 70% less than in patients without Alzheimer’s. This leads scientists to believe that Irisin is linked as protective to the neurons.
So, to summarize, exercise is great for brain health by helping new neurons and connections grow and be healthy and helps reduce risk for Alzheimer’s. All the more reason to go outside, or head to the gym for an exercise class or to use the machines every day!
Source: National Geographic “New clues are revealing why exercise can keep the brain healthy” June 2022
Navigating and Finding Joy in the Journey of Aging
By Steve Dickie, CEO
In the age of the smartphone, we have instant access to driving directions that are delivered with GPS precision. But where do we go for a “roadmap” to guide us through the aging process? How do we fi nd help navigating the confusing mix of complex issues when our care needs begin
to change?
On Thursday, June 15th Trinity Woods is extending an open invitation to all who are navigating the journey aging. This is the great session for parents, their adult children and anyone walking through making decisions for seniors.
This 90-minute event will open with a summary of the book, “They’re Your Parents Too!” which is subtitled “How Siblings Can Survive Their Parents’ Aging Without Driving Each Other Crazy.” Then we will off er a candid discussion about some of the most important questions
our family will face in the future:
When you get to the point where your care needs change, how will the roles and relationships among your adult children adapt?
Is there a way for you to help your adult children take on supporting roles?
What happens when old sibling rivalries emerge?
What family legacy do you want to pass on? What stories are important to remember?
How can decisions be made in a way that helps everyone make peace with change and loss?
“Your Parents” is like a “fi eld manual.” It off ers help for navigating through one of the most
challenging seasons in life. We hope this event will help initiate conversations. It can give you
directions to help navigate complex relationships and diffi cult exchanges. It can bring joy,
reconciliation, and peace to the journey of aging.
Filled with expert guidance from gerontologists, family therapists, elder-care attorneys,
financial planners, and health workers; resonant real-life stories; and helpful family negotiation
techniques, this is an indispensable book for anyone whose parents are aging. We hope you will
mark your calendar for Thursday, June 15 at 6:30 p.m. on the campus of Trinity Woods to be part
of this book discussion.
To learn more about this event and the book, see page 7 of the June Trail Mix Newsletter. You may also visit our website at TrinityWoodsTulsa.com or call 918.346.6671. This event is free and open to the public.
Let Those Cares Go
By Weldon Tisdale, Chaplain
Though I closed my eyes and tried to rest, my mind refused to turn off. I couldn’t stop wondering if I should have said or done something different.
Finally, I got up and went over to my computer, hoping to find some nugget of truth to ease my mind. Tears came to my eyes as I caught sight of a scripture someone had posted: “Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved” Psalm 55:22.
All week long, the Lord had been speaking to me about casting my burdens or cares upon Him–now here was that theme again! Suddenly, I knew I needed to hand over to Him all my worry about the situation and what would happen. If I’d messed up, He was big enough to handle it! I didn’t need to carry the burden.
Cares come in all sorts of different sizes and shapes. We can be careful about all the things we do, careful about what we’ve said or done, careful about other people, careful about our health — we seem to attract cares like a magnet! At the time, the cares on our shoulder seem heavier than anything else in the entire world could possibly be.
But whatever our care might be, we weren’t meant to carry it! We were meant to cast it. It’s actually prideful of us to insist on worrying and carrying our cares when God tells us to cast them. God cares perfectly for each one of us. He is our infallible heavenly Shepherd. He urges us to humble ourselves–admit our inability–and cast every worry, burden, and care upon Him.
“Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” 1 Peter 5:6-7
reprinted from christianperspective.net
June Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
You’re Invited to an Interactive Discussion On Aging
Thursday, June 15th Steve Dickie, Trinity Woods CEO, is extending an open invitation to all who are navigating the journey aging. This is the great session for parents, their adult children and anyone walking
through making decisions for seniors. This 90-minute event will open with a summary of the book, “They’re Your Parents Too!” which is subtitled “How Siblings Can Survive Their Parents’ Aging Without Driving Each Other Crazy.” We hope this event will help initiate conversations. It can give you directions to help navigate complex relationships and difficult exchanges. It can bring joy,
reconciliation, and peace to the journey of aging.
To learn more about this event and the book, you may visit our website at
TrinityWoodsTulsa.com or call 918.346.6671. This event is free and open to the public.
June STAR Employee of the Month are announced – Lori!
June Wellness
In June we celebrate all the men who live in the Woods with a special Men’s Gathering. Our special guest will be Ben Leslie, Chief Development Officer from the Folds of Honor. An F-16 fighter pilot in the Oklahoma Air National Guard, he became painfully aware of the realities families face when a loved one in uniform is fallen or disabled. This Oklahoma-based organization has become a national patriotic movement with chapters across the country. Ben Leslie, who has been with Folds of Honor for 12
years, will talk about their impact and some of the lives that have been changed through their work.
New Neighbors
Meet Sheila and Joe and Sharen!
May Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
Remembering the Good Samaritans
As we look forward to the month of May and Memorial Day, we take time to remember all the Good Samaritans who have left their mark on the campus and residents at Trinity Woods. We are surrounded by reminders of the “Good Samaritans” who have ensured that this community and its mission have thrived for over 65 years.
Each year we ask our community and generous supporters to give to the Good Samaritan Fund. Over the past few years this Fund has become one of the most urgent and critical areas of need for the people living at Trinity Woods. This Fund helps Trinity Woods residents when they need it most. If you feel led to help a fellow neighbor through the Good Samaritan Fund, please make a donation.
Click here to donate to the Good Samaritan Fund.
May STAR Employee of the Month are announced – Greg!
May Wellness
In May we celebrate all the ladies who live in the Woods with a special Ladies Luncheon with special guest Lisa Bain. Also coming this month is the rescheduled Pete ‘n’ Keely performance, that you won’t want to miss. And we can’t forget about – Spring Fling! We will gather with friends and neighbors to enjoy good food, games and music for this annual outdoor event.
New Neighbors
Meet Carol and Suzanne!
May Availability
Looking for a retirement lifestyle. Check out these great options that are available now! Click Here
April Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
Making a Difference Through Local Governance!
Meet the Trinity Woods Board of Directors. In the world of senior living communities, people often ask what sets Trinity Woods apart? Most of the time we focus on the people because that is truly what makes Trinity
Woods the community God has called us to be. One of the tremendous advantages of living at Trinity Woods is the benefit gained from the governance of a local Board.
April STAR Employees of the Month are announced – Dunel and Maria!
April Wellness
We highlight Holy Week programs. The TW Wellness Nurse offers ways to help deal with stress. And we can’t forget all the events – Wednesday Morning Musicale celebrates its 100th anniversary concert on our campus! Learn more about Volunteer Appreciation Week from Life Enrichment Coordinator, Irene Brown.
New Neighbors
Meet Anne, Doug and Elisabeth, and George and Carol!
March Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
Why Choose a Senior Living Community!
Steve Dickie, CEO of Trinity Woods, discusses the most frequently asked questions and what Trinity Woods residents say about living here. Learn more about Tulsa senior living and if the choice is right for you. It’s spring and a great time to get more active. Make sure you checkout the articles on spiritual and physical health.
March STAR Employees of the Month are announced – Carlena and David!
March Wellness
This month kicks off with a fully staged musical featuring Pete ‘n’ Keeley. We also welcome Scott McQuade, jazz pianist, for the first time in concert on campus. The month won’t be complete without “Supper and a Show” the entertainment will feature “swing” and a great meal!
New Neighbors
Meet John and Mary Alice, Allen and Marcia, and Red and June!
February Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
New Year and Making A Plan!
This month we are hosting a “Brunch and Learn” with special guest Mark Loeber from The Advancement Group. Mark has over 34 years of experience in estate and charitable giving planning and regulations. A new year always brings new information about changes in tax laws and philanthropic guidelines. This seminar will be a great way to learn ways to save on taxes and make a plan for your legacy.
February is also Heart Health month – Lupina Fry, TW Wellness Nurse share some simple ways to improve your heart health.
We also announce the February STARS Employees of the Month – Emi and Irene!
February Wellness
We are excited to host the Tulsa Youth Symphony Chamber, a special book club and the annual Valentine Celebration of Friendship, Community and Love events. The Wellness Team also welcomes its newest team member Alison, the Spann Wellness Center Manager.
New Neighbors
Meet Ed! And this month there is a special story about Trinity Woods Health Care member Leroy, that you will not want to miss!
January Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
The State of the Woods
Happy New Year! There are so many things to be thankful for in 2022 as well as to be excited about for the coming year. CEO Steve Dickie gives insight into all the happenings at Trinity Woods. Additionally, Chaplain Weldon Tisdale, showcases the works of Dr. Martin Luther King and his dedication to service.
Trinity Woods 2023 Member Council.
We also announce the January STARS Employee of the Month – Sherry!
January Wellness
Thank goodness there are 31 days in January because this month is full of programs! From Book Club to to concerts to Supper and a Show, you won’t want to miss a thing! Did we also mention all the fitness groups and classes to try? Make sure you check out the January events calendar.
New Neighbors
Meet Mike and Kathy, Shirley, Cullen, and Nancy!
December Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
It’s Christmas Time at Trinity Woods
Seasons Greetings! You’re invited to Christmas in the Woods. Our annual holiday tradition that puts everyone in the Christmas spirit. This year the event is scheduled for Thursday, December 8th.
Trinity Woods is seeking Board Nominations.
We also announce the December STARS Employees of the Month – Mandie!
December Wellness
There are several special services to highlight the holiday – Christmas Service hosted by Boston Avenue and New Year’s Eve Service. Additionally this year brings lots of opportunities for music and holiday tunes. Mark your calendar for all the events, from sing-a-longs to piano concerts you will not want to miss anything this month.
New Neighbors
Meet Bill and Aneta!
December Availability
We are featuring the Magnolia floor plan in Crestwood. Click here for more information!
November Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
Celebrating Trinity Woods Veterans
This month we highlight those who serve and have served our country with honor – American veterans. Every year Trinity Woods takes time to celebrate and thank these very special people, both men and women who have served, with a special program. The event this year will be held Friday, November 11 at 2 p.m. in the Fleming Center.
Make sure you check the new name of the Bargain Basement – The Treasure Chest!
We also announce the November STARS Employees of the Month – Michael and Anderson!
November Wellness
As the holidays approach Jennifer Rawlings, VP of Wellness, shares tips for managing stress and keeping fit. There are also several featured events this months – Conversation with Chief Wendell Franklin, Dancing with Michael Loman and a Thanksgiving Reception!
New Neighbors
Meet Sharon, Dennis and Norma, and Jean!
November Availability
We are featuring the Maple floor plan in Crestwood. Click here for more information!
October Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
Tranquility Wellness Spa
Are you looking for a more tranquil life? Well look no further – the Tranquility Wellness Spa is just the place. This state-of-the-art spa allows residence to freshen up their hair, get a manicure or pedicure and for real relaxation a massage. This month we are also offering a grief Workshop for people looking for support through any type of loss. We also announce the October STARS Employees of the Month – Stephanie and Kelley!
October Wellness
We are excited to extend an invitation to community members and friends to the Annual Trinity Woods Trunk or Treat event scheduled for October 28. October will host many events from concerts, book clubs, pickleball and Fall Festival!
New Neighbors
Meet Dennis and Phil and Lela!
October Availability
This month we announced an amazing Year End Special for the Felt House. Click here for more information!
September Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
Inspiring the Workforce of Tomorrow
Learn more about the Trinity Woods Student Internship Program. We are proud that after two year, and one pandemic, the program is still going strong and the students are still being inspired by serving elders. Trinity Woods is showcasing this unique and innovated program that changes lives. We also announce the September STARS Employee of the Month – Dorothy! And meet the new faces at Trinity Woods – Jerome Steele in Finance and Alec Davis in the Sales Office.
September Wellness
We are excited to extend an invitation to community members and friends to the Annual Trinity Woods Health & Wellness Fair! Come learn about offerings on campus and what is available from the surrounding community. The Annual Health & Wellness Fair will be held on Thursday, September 15th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Community Life Center.
New Neighbors
Meet Rita and Oakley!
September Availability
This month we are showcasing the Crestwood residences. Contact us to learn more about some special offers that are currently available. Click here for more information!
August Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
Celebrating One Year for the Community Life Center
It has been one year since we opened the Trinity Woods Community Life Center. This space has allowed us to truly bring together our community in so many ways. We are excited to host “The Big Show” to celebrate this special anniversary with lots of performers and fun! We announce the August STARS Employees of the Month – Clarence and Amy!
August Wellness
This month we finish out our summer school schedules with Japanese Culture, Jewelry Making and Recycling. We also are excited to announce the new Biodex Balance System to our therapy program. We also have the Eicher Thursday concert for the music lovers in the neighborhood!
New Neighbors
Meet Bob and Toni!
August Availability
This month we are showcasing the Patio Homes residences. Click here for more information!
July Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
Summer School at Trinity Woods
We are excited to showcase the lifelong learning that is happening through the Trinity Woods Summer School programs. These classes are taught by our very own community members. We have a variety of different options sure to pique everyone’s interests. We announce the July STARS Employees of the Month – Cathy and Laura!
July Wellness
This month we welcome Lori Fullbright from Tulsa’s Channel 6, will tell us about the latest cons, frauds, and scams. We also have several concerts for all the music lovers in the neighborhood – Amt Cottingham and Eicher Thursday!
New Neighbors
Meet Donna and Carson and Tom!
July Availability
This month we are showcasing the residences in Crestwood. Click here for more information!
June Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
Good Samaritan – Paving the Way
This month we talk about being the Good Samaritan for your neighbor. We also celebrate 10 years of wellness at Trinity Woods. We look back at what we have achieve and honor those who began the journey with when we opened Crestwood. Join us for a Crestwood birthday party on June 10th! We announce the May STARS Employee of the Month – Rosal!
May Wellness
We announce Wendell Franklin, Tulsa Chief of Police, as the special guest for the annual Men’s Shindig. Featured events include a trip to Oklahoma City, Don Irwin piano concert, Richard Miller guitar concert and Book Club with Mary Helen Stanley, a community favorite.
New Neighbors
Meet Erna and Linda!
June Availability
This month we are showcasing the brand new Villa that is available. Click here for more information!