Erie senior living community’s “Art for a Cause” exhibit showcases local senior photographers while supporting the Alzheimer’s Association
ERIE, PA. — Residents and visitors at The Residence at Presque Isle Bay now are greeted by more than just conversation and coffee in the senior living community’s Bistro. They’re welcomed by art with a purpose.
The Residence at Presque Isle Bay recently unveiled a new photo gallery wall as part of its “Art for a Cause” exhibit, transforming a once-empty space into a year-round showcase of original photography while supporting the Alzheimer’s Association. The gallery features work by Erie photographers Brenda Traffis and Daniel Wolfe, two senior artists whose images capture the natural beauty of Pennsylvania, Lake Erie and neighboring Ohio.
“Two senior photographers with incredible talent,” said Linsley Wybiral, community relations director at The Residence at Presque Isle Bay. “We are proud to showcase their work while also raising funds for a cause very important to our community.”
Photographs displayed in the Bistro are available for purchase, with a percentage of the proceeds from every sale donated directly to the Alzheimer’s Association. While the exhibit supports fundraising efforts, its primary goal is to enhance the daily experience of residents and guests.
“The exhibit is designed to bring beauty, creativity and joy to our community while supporting senior artists and a cause close to many of our hearts,” said Nathan Maietta, executive operations officer at The Residence at Presque Isle Bay. “There is no pressure or expectation to purchase. Simply enjoy the artwork. If a piece speaks to you, your purchase also helps support the Alzheimer’s Association.”
A personal inspiration
The idea for the gallery grew from a deeply personal place. Wybiral explained that the community has long been committed to Alzheimer’s fundraising through multiple efforts each year, including events such as a golf scramble, bake sales and participation in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s.
The Residence at Presque Isle Bay will host a Gallery Night open to the public on Feb. 26, 2026 (4 to 6 p.m.). Traffis and Wolfe plan to donate a large piece to the senior living community as part of a fundraising raffle. The winning ticket will be drawn during the Gallery Night event.
“This cause is also deeply personal for Dan Wolfe and his family following the recent loss of his brother to Lewy body dementia,” Wybiral said.
“I told Dan and Brenda about our golf scramble, cookie and bracelet sales, and the Walk to End Alzheimer’s,” she continued. “I explained that through four or five fundraisers each year, we build toward a significant year-end donation.”
That conversation sparked the idea.
“Dan said, ‘If you ever would like to sell some photography at your community, that’s my niche, that’s what I do,’” Wybiral said. “The opportunity for Dan and Brenda to give back through their art is especially meaningful.”
The timing — and the space — were perfect.
“We have this big empty wall in our Bistro,” Wybiral said. “I would rather it be some meaningful art than something I’d pick up at one of the chain stores.”
The senior living community’s leadership team strongly supported the idea, allowing the project to come together quickly.
“They took it and ran with it,” Wybiral said. “Nathan Maietta gave his approval. The photographers hung everything on that wall and really brought it to life. It’s all their work that they captured across Pennsylvania and Ohio. They are all beautiful, one-of-a-kind photos. They don’t do reprints. They’re one of a kind forever.”
Now on display year-round, the “Art for a Cause” gallery blends creativity, community and compassion, offering residents and visitors a chance to enjoy meaningful art while supporting senior artists and advancing the fight against Alzheimer’s disease.
For more information, contact Linsley Wybiral, Community Relations Director, The Residence at Presque Isle Bay, at [email protected]or call 814.455.1630.
