Throughout 2025, the Candle Light Cove team had a successful fundraising effort to support the Alzheimer’s Association. Among those who participated in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Easton included, from left: Charlie Lyons, Grace Lyons (Community Relations Director), Taylor Lyons, Savannah Lyons, Alecia Todd (Hospitality Associate), Melinda Dennis-Wheatley (Certified Nursing Associate/Certified Medication Technician), Crystal Schuyler, Steven Schuyler (Executive Operations Officer), Andrew Schuyler, and Tynette Dennis-Howe (Executive Housekeeper). Front row, from left: Avery Schuyler, Annabelle Schuyler, James Dixon, IV.
Senior Living Community Raises Over $2G in Yearlong Fundraising Effort
EASTON, Md. — At Candle Light Cove in Easton, supporting the Alzheimer’s Association isn’t just about raising money — it’s about purpose, creativity and community.
Throughout 2025, residents, team members, and neighbors joined forces to make a difference, combining heartfelt efforts with fun events to raise both awareness and funds for a cause that touches so many lives.
Candle Light Cove proudly raised $2,384.85 in 2025 to support the Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Easton. Their efforts were part of a larger Eastern Shore initiative that generated more than $140,000 for the Alzheimer’s Association.
“These types of events and activities provide a direct way for our team and residents to support a cause that impacts some of our own residents, our own family,” said Grace Lyons, Candle Light Cove Community Relations Director. “People who maybe didn’t have much of an understanding of Alzheimer’s before joining the Candle Light Cove community, both residents and staff, come to learn how devasting the disease can be.”
“We have a group of staff members who have walked on our Alzheimer’s team for several years,” she added. “This cause is near and dear to their hearts. They are on the frontlines, providing direct care and compassion to people with this disease. The Alzheimer’s Walk and its fundraising are direct ways to support the cause, further research, and hopefully one day end Alzheimer’s.”
Crafting With Purpose
Some of the most meaningful contributions came directly from the assisted living residents, who turned their artistic talents into fundraising success. Under the guidance of Samantha Daniels, LifeStages Director, residents designed and created picture frames, keychains, candles, soaps, hand-painted magnets, windchimes, artwork and beaded pens.
“The ideas just kept flowing,” Daniels said. “Once they finished one project, they were ready to jump into the next. They encouraged one another, and even coached those of us who aren’t so artistic. What made it truly special is that many residents have been personally touched by Alzheimer’s, and this gave them purpose to share their talents in support of a cause that means so much.”
It wasn’t unusual for staff members to stop by the activities room to admire the creations or even purchase items before they were finished. “The staff was incredibly supportive,” Daniels added. “It became a true community effort.”
Pit Beef Success
While the crafts were beloved in-house, the community favorite was Candle Light Cove’s Pit Beef Fundraiser. Hosted at the Easton VFW and catered by Catering by Jamie, the event drew a crowd of loyal pit beef and turkey fans, raising an impressive $660 in one day. Meals were delivered to businesses across town, from doctors’ offices to the area hospital, making the effort not only delicious but far-reaching.
“We knew Jamie Petrides had a following, but the turnout exceeded expectations,” said Susan Wolfberg, LifeStories Director, praising the locally renown caterer. “It really showed how much the Easton community stands behind this cause.”
Dining Out for a Cause
Candle Light Cove also hosted a Dine & Donate fundraiser at Playa Bowls in Easton, with proceeds benefiting their Alzheimer’s Walk Team. Residents even joined in supporting other local Alzheimer’s fundraising efforts, including a lunch outing to Ledo Pizza to help the Home Instead Walk Team.
A Shared Mission
For Executive Operations Officer Steven Schuyler, these moments highlight the bigger picture. “This isn’t just fundraising, it’s education and awareness,” he said. “Our team provides direct care to those impacted by Alzheimer’s, and many of our residents and their families have been touched by it too. These events bring us together and remind us that we’re part of something larger: working toward a world without Alzheimer’s.”
The camaraderie fostered through these efforts was undeniable. Residents found purpose in their projects, staff members stood shoulder-to-shoulder with them, and the Easton community responded with generosity and enthusiasm.
Looking Ahead
As Candle Light Cove looks to 2026, their dedication remains strong.
In addition to fundraising events, the community continues to host a monthly caregiver support group, led by Candle Light Cove’s Wolfberg and Jane Bateman of Home Instead. Open to the public, the group provides resources, encouragement, and a safe space for those navigating the challenges of Alzheimer’s and dementia care.
From hand-painted windchimes to famous pit beef sandwiches, Candle Light Cove has shown that when creativity, compassion and community come together, the impact can be extraordinary.
For more information, contact Grace Lyons, Community Relations Director, Candle Light Cove, at glyons@integracare.com, or call 410.770.9707.