EVENTS
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
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HEALTHY LIVING CLASS: "YOGA FOR OLDER ADULTS" - BEGINS APRIL 13
HEALTHY LIVING CLASS: "Yoga for Older Adults"
Offered in partnership with Uplift Yoga
Date/Time: April 13 through May 22 , Mondays & Fridays, 1 -1:45pm.
Description: Yoga can benefit EVERYBODY! This gentle yoga class is geared for older adults and accessible for ALL as positions may be done from a yoga mat, sitting in a chair or standing with a chair/wall for support. Conducted at a slow pace, this class incorporates mindfulness and breathing techniques, while participants learn and practice poses that will increase strength, balance and flexibility. A regular yoga practice can also improve mobility, increase energy, boost physical function, help with pain and enrich your life!
Instructors: Owner of Uplift Yoga Brenda Norris, E-RYT500, YACEP, and Certified Wellness Coach Carol Ames, MS, CPT, 500 RYT
Location: The Gathering Room at Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, with direct access from the lower level parking lot
Address: 18131 Slade School Road, Sandy Spring, MD 20860 (on the campus of Brooke Grove Retirement Village)
Cost: $40 for entire six-week session
Registration Deadline: April 12
Questions? Contact Director of Marketing Toni Davis at tdavis@bgf.org or
call 301-388-7209
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LIVING WELL SEMINAR: “SUPPORT MENTAL AND COGNITIVE HEALTH THROUGH NUTRITION & LIFESTYLE” - APRIL 16
LIVING WELL SEMINAR: “SUPPORT MENTAL AND COGNITIVE HEALTH THROUGH NUTRITION & LIFESTYLE”
Learn evidence-based information to help you or a loved one optimize mental health and avoid cognitive decline. We’ll delve into nutrition and lifestyle considerations with time for questions.
DATE: Thursday, April 16, 2026
TIME: 10:30-11:45 a.m.
PRESENTER: Presented by Lisa Jo Finstrom, MS, CNS, LDN
LOCATION: Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center (on the campus of Brooke Grove Retirement Village)
ADDRESS: 18131 Slade School Road, Sandy Spring, MD 20860
ROOM: The Gathering Room (with direct access from BGRNC's lower level parking lot)
COST: Free
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LIVING WELL SEMINAR: BUILDING A BETTER TOMORROW: How Montgomery County is Becoming Age-Friendly - APRIL 20
LIVING WELL SEMINAR: BUILDING A BETTER TOMORROW: How Montgomery County is Becoming Age-Friendly
Discover how Montgomery County Government is working to create a more supportive, inclusive community for older adults. Join us on April 20 for an engaging seminar featuring Shawn Brennan, program manager for Age-Friendly Montgomery, as she shares insights into the county’s efforts to enhance quality of life for seniors.
Learn about valuable resources and initiatives, including free transportation options like Ride-On and Metrobus for residents 65+, personalized guidance through Connect-a-Ride, and access to technology and training via Senior Planet Montgomery and Montgomery Connects. Explore how the county’s master plan supports aging in place, expands housing choices, and fosters intergenerational connections.
The seminar will also highlight programs that promote active lifestyles, protect against financial scams, and improve long-term care experiences. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how Montgomery County is making communities more livable, connected, and empowering for older adults—and how you can benefit from these efforts.
DATE: MONDAY, APRIL 20, 2026
TIME: 10:30AM - 11:45AM
PRESENTER: SHAWN BRENNAN, PROGRAM MANAGER, AGE-FRIENDLY MONTGOMERY
LOCATION: Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center (on the campus of Brooke Grove Retirement Village)
ADDRESS: 18131 Slade School Road, Sandy Spring, MD 20860
ROOM: The Gathering Room (with direct access from BGRNC's lower level parking lot)
COST: Free
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INDEPENDENT LIVING OPEN HOUSE - MAY 19
INDEPENDENT LIVING OPEN HOUSE
Tuesday, May 19 - 11am - 2pm
WESTBROOKE CLUBHOUSE • 18310 SLADE SCHOOL ROAD · SANDY SPRING, MD 20860
There will be two seperate information sessions.
TO REGISTER:
DISCOVER the casual elegance and comfort of our independent living cottages.
TOUR a cottage and MEET current residents.
EXPLORE Westbrooke Clubhouse, its restaurant and fitness center.
ENJOY our 220-acre campus of lush pastures and hardwood forest, and a taste of our chef prepared food.
Learn how to become a no-obligation priority list member, examine
financial options and review the long-term benefits of a secure lifestyle
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LIVING WELL SEMINAR: BRAIN HEALTH AS YOU AGE - MAY 21
LIVING WELL SEMINAR: BRAIN HEALTH AS YOU AGE
Date: May 21, 10:30-11:45
Summary: Keep your brain healthy as you age by practicing proper maintenance and learning to identify problems as they arise. Dr. Simmons, former house call physician and MedStar Aging Services medical Director at Brook Grove, will review normal and abnormal decline and best practices for addressing both. It’s never too soon to start preventing cognitive decline, or understanding it once it’s begun
PRESENTER: Presented by Dr. Steven Simmons
LOCATION: Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center (on the campus of Brooke Grove Retirement Village
ADDRESS: 18131 Slade School Road, Sandy Spring, MD 20860
ROOM: The Gathering Room (with direct access from BGRNC's lower level parking lot)
Register by 5/20
COST: Free
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HEALTHY LIVING CLASS: STEP INTO WELLNESS - BEGINS JUNE 8
HEALTHY LIVING CLASS: Step into Wellness
3 week session
Begins: June 8 and runs through June 26
Mondays & Fridays: 1pm - 1:45pm
Experience the beauty of the campus! Join us for a feel-good slow paced walking group
designed to keep you moving, social, and strong! We’ll begin with gentle warm-up
exercises, stroll together through our beautiful campus, then finish with relaxing
stretches to restore balance and flexibility. Perfect for older adults who want to stay
active, connect with others, and enjoy the outdoors—one step at a time.
NOTE: When registering for this class pay $25 one time and you will be registered for the entire THREE-week session.
For questions: Call Toni Davis at 301-388-7209 or email tdavis@bgf.org
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ASSISTED LIVING OPEN HOUSE - JUNE 18
ASSISTED LIVING OPEN HOUSE
Thursday, JUNE 18, 2026
10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
THE MEADOWS ASSISTED LIVING • 1635 HICKORY KNOLL ROAD • SANDY SPRING, MD 20860
For more than 75 years, Brooke Grove Retirement Village has
built a history of excellence in Montgomery County.
EXPLORE our residential-style homes, gardens and secure walking paths.
DISCOVER our innovative approach and programs including those designed to stimulate memory.
MEET our staff, trained in assisting those with Alzheimer’s and memory loss.
ENJOY our 220-acre campus and our live-in pets, and sample food freshly prepared by our chef.
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DEMENTIA CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP - Ongoing
Sponsored by the Alzheimer's Association, this group is designed for family, friends and others engaged in the care and safety of someone touched by dementia. In this safe and confidential environment, you can develop informal and mutually supportive social relationships, gain understanding, share caregiving tips and discover other helpful information. Offered in partnership with MedStar Health's Center for Successful Aging and Ellis House
DATE: 2nd & 4th Friday of each month
TIME: 1:00 - 2p.m.
LOCATION: Community Partners Room at Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center with direct access from the lower level parking lot
ADDRESS: 18131 Slade School Road, Sandy Spring, MD 20860 (on the campus of Brooke Grove Retirement Village)
FACILITATOR: Deanna Cho, LCSW-C, MedStar Center for Successful Aging
Guy & Dorothy Poole, Ellis House LLC
COST: Free
TO REGISTER: CLICK HERE and register on the date you wish to beginning attending the support group
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THRIVING WITH PARKINSON'S: Exercise for Parkinson's Class - ONGOING
This ongoing class for those with Parkinson's or other neurogenerative disorders aims to improve posture, balance and circulation while also increasing strength, muscle control and mobility. Offered in partnership with the Parkinson Foundation of the National Capital Area (PFNCA).
DATE: Every Monday & Wednesday
TIME: 12 noon-1 p.m.
INSTRUCTOR: Paul Reavis, certified active aging specialist and certified personal trainer
COST: Free with $50 annual PFNCA administrative fee
LOCATION: The Gathering Room at Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center with direct access from the lower level parking lot
ADDRESS: 18131 Slade School Road, Sandy Spring, MD 20860 (on the campus of Brooke Grove Retirement Village)
FIRST REGISTER WITH PFNCA (if you have not already done so): CLICK HERE
THEN REGISTER ONCE WITH BGRV FOR THE DATE YOU PLAN TO BEGIN ATTENDING: CLICK HERE
QUESTIONS? Contact BGRV Director of Marketing Toni Davis at tdavis@bgf.org or 301-388-7209
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THRIVING WITH PARKINSON'S: Communications Club - Ongoing
This weekly wellness and prevention program for individuals with Parkinson's disease and their care partners focuses on the maintenance of communication skills, with an emphasis on strengthening breath support and the ability to project and speak loudly enough to be heard in social settings. Offered in partnership with the Parkinson Foundation of the National Capital Area (PFNCA).
DATES: Every Wednesday (beginning June 12, 2024)
b10:45-11:45 a.m.
FACILITATOR: Nicole Rosenthal, speech-language pathologist, Flagship Rehabilitation
COST: Free with $50 annual PFNCA administrative fee
LOCATION: The Gathering Room at Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center with direct access from the lower level parking lot
ADDRESS: 18131 Slade School Road, Sandy Spring, MD 20860 (on the campus of Brooke Grove Retirement Village)
FIRST REGISTER WITH PFNCA (if you have not already done so): CLICK HERE
THEN REGISTER ONCE WITH BGRV FOR THE DATE YOU PLAN TO BEGINNING ATTENDING: CLICK HERE
QUESTIONS? Contact BGRV Director of Marketing Toni Davis at tdavis@bgf.org or 301-388-7209
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THRIVING WITH PARKINSON'S: Parkinson's Support Group - Ongoing
Offered in partnership with the Parkinson Foundation of the National Capital Area (PFNCA), this group provides an opportunity for individuals and families to find support, gain understanding and share caregiving tips.
DATES: Third Monday of each month (beginning July 15)
TIME: 10:45-11:45 a.m.
FACILITATOR: Ritu Sikri, physical therapist and assistant administrator, Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center
COST: Free with $50 annual PFNCA administrative fee
LOCATION: Community Partners Room at Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center with direct access from the lower level parking lot
ADDRESS: 18131 Slade School Road, Sandy Spring, MD 20860 (on the campus of Brooke Grove Retirement Village)
FIRST REGISTER WITH PFNCA (if you have not already done so): CLICK HERE
THEN REGISTER ONCE WITH BGRV FOR THE DATE YOU PLAN TO BEGINNING ATTENDING: CLICK HERE
QUESTIONS? Contact BGRV Director of Marketing Toni Davis at tdavis@bgf.org or 301-388-7209
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VIRTUAL ASSISTED LIVING FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP -Ongoing
Family members and other caregivers of The Meadows/The Woods assisted living residents are invited to participate in this online support group! Confidential sessions are generally held on the third Thursday of each month and are facilitated by Social Worker Wisma Satriano, LCSW-C, and former BGRV Chaplain Bill Neely. Consistent attendance helps to develop rapport, trust and continuity. A free gmail account is needed to participate.
DATE: Third Thursday every month
No Group in April 2025
TIME: 3-4 p.m.
PLATFORM: Google Meet
RSVPs ARE REQUIRED: Send your request and email address to Wisma Satriano at wsatriano@bgf.org or 301-260-2312. There is a maximum of 12 participants.
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VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION - Ongoing
No matter what your skills, interests or talents, there is a place for YOU as a volunteer at Brooke Grove Retirement Village! Share your passion, fulfill student service learning (SSL) hours and "touch people's lives."
DATE: LAST Thursday of each month
TIME: 5:30-7 p.m
PLACE: The Gathering Room
LOCATION: Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center (on the campus of Brooke Grove Retirement Village)
ADDRESS: 18131 Slade School Road, Sandy Spring, MD 20860
OPTIONAL: If you prefer, you may schedule a one-on-one Zoom or FaceTime orientation session at a more convenient time.
FOR INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER FOR ORIENTATION: Contact Director of Volunteer Services Barbara Hackett at 301-570-7081 or volunteers@bgf.org. A Volunteer Application may be downloaded from our website at bgf.org/volunteers. All volunteers must present proof of COVID-19 vaccination.
NEWS
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Walk to End Alzheimer's Campaign Tops $21,000 - January 1, 2026
Brooke Grove Retirement Village's (BGRV) 2025 Walk to End Alzheimer's team of staff, residents, volunteers, family members and friends surpassed its $20,000 goal and raised $21,000 to benefit the Alzheimer's Association National Capital Area (ALZ/NCA), according to team co-captains Toni Davis, BGRV's director of marketing, Alexandria Barnes, Director of Culinary Services and Michelle Hato, Marketing intern.
A top area fundraiser for many years, BGRV has raised more than $520,000 for the cause since the organization began participating in the Walk in 2003. The NCA Chapter raised more than $918,000 in 2025, which is an additional reason for celebration.
"This is a remarkable achievement during another year in which so many are facing financial challenges," said Ms. Davis. "Because of the efforts of our team members and the generosity of donors throughout the Washington metropolitan area, the Alzheimer's Association will be able to continue its vital work." Formed in 1980, the Alzheimer's Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer's care, support and research. It is dedicated to finding not just the cure, but preventative methods and treatment.
Local businesses, vendors and BGRV residents and their loved ones also supported the campaign by participating in a raffle and making generous gifts in response to a direct mail appeal. Raffle gifts were a $750 Visa gift card, $500 Visa gift card and dinner and a show for two at Grillmarx and Olney Theatre Center.
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A SEASON OF TRANSITION
The passing of the LIFE baton — symbolizing leadership, impact, faith, and excellence — marks a new chapter for our community.
After 29 years of dedicated service, Dennis Hunter, President of Brooke Grove Foundation, retired effective August 14, 2025. Since joining as Vice President in 1996, Dennis has helped guide BGF through tremendous growth — from the opening of the new Nursing Center in 2000, to Independent Living expansions in 2004 & 2008, to the opening of our state-of-the-art Rehab Center in 2017. He also provided steady leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic and significant transitions in 2024.
We will deeply miss Dennis’s vision and commitment, and wish him joy in retirement as he spends time with family, plays guitar, and enjoys nature.
Looking ahead, the BGF Board of Directors has named Wesley Malin as our new President. Wesley, who has served as Vice President of Operations since 2019, brings over 40 years of senior living and long-term care experience. His leadership and industry expertise will guide us into the future.
We are also thrilled to announce two additional leadership promotions: Patty Gomez has been promoted to Vice President of Operations. Patty began her career at Brooke Grove in 1990 and has held many leadership roles, from Nursing Home Administrator to Executive Director. A true champion of our culture, she brings unmatched knowledge and dedication to our mission.
In addition, Keith Spillane has been appointed Vice President of Finance. Keith joined BGF in 2020 as Director of Corporate Finance, bringing more than 25 years of accounting and financial leadership experience. As a CPA, his steady expertise will continue to strengthen our financial future.
Please join us in welcoming Wesley, Patty, and Keith to their new roles as we continue to live out our mission: We Touch People’s Lives.
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BGRNC Receives Highest Possible Rating from U.S. News & World Report - 2025
Short-term rehabilitation at Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center (BGRNC) has once again earned the highest possible ranking, "High Performing," in the U.S. News & World Report 2025 Best Nursing Home ratings, published on November 14, 2024.
The 2025 edition features ratings of more than 15,000 U.S. nursing homes, evaluated on patient and resident outcomes such as infection rates, staffing levels, reliance on antipsychotic drugs, health inspection results and other quality indicators. Only 19% of the reviewed skilled nursing facilities earned the High Performing rating in the short-term rehab and/or long-term care categories.
"Nursing homes that have earned the recognition of U.S. News have a track record of achieving better outcomes for patients and residents," noted Daniel Lara Agudelo, health data analyst at U.S. News. "It's energizing to see such acknowledgment of our team and the work they do!" said Brooke Grove Foundation President Dennis Hunter.
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On-site Dialysis Now Open
As part of our commitment to provide our residents with the best care and quality of life, DaVita dialysis will offers on-site dialysis for current patients and rehab guests at Brooke Grove Rehab & Nursing Center beginning in June.
This means residents on dialysis can dialyze conveniently and comfortably—with no more trips to a dialysis center. By removing the need to travel to treatment, patients may experience reduced stress and benefit from smooth care coordination.
Davita is a dialysis leader with 20 years experience and established and proven clinical procedures.
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"Knit One, Crochet Too" Club Donates Blankets to Comfort Cases - March 4, 2024
In what has become an annual tradition, members of Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center's "Knit One, Crochet Too" Club recently delivered 70 handmade, child-size blankets to Comfort Cases in Gaithersburg, Maryland. The colorful covers were created during weekly meetings led by volunteer Leslie England and by members working at home.
Comfort Cases provides backpacks filled with comfort and personal care items to kids living in foster care. "We shared prayer and sent the blankets off with blessings for the foster children and hope they will feel our love and compassion," said Director of Volunteer Services Barbara Hackett.
For more information about the club or volunteering at Brooke Grove Retirement Village, contact Volunteer Services at 301-570-7081 or volunteers@bgf.org.
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MSAC Grant Brings Arts-Centered Programming to AL Residents - January 4, 2024
The Meadows/The Woods assisted living (AL) has been approved to receive a Touring Grant from the Maryland State Arts Council (MSAC), according to AL Director of LIFE Enrichment Samantha Dubendorf. The $5,000 award allows the LIFE enrichment team to collaborate with Story Tapestries to continue bringing impactful, arts-centered programs to AL residents in 2024.
Story Tapestries artists use the power of dance, storytelling, theatre, music and visual arts to inspire creativity, energize the mind, promote confidence and spread joy. "We look forward to some new and interesting programming this spring!" said Ms. Dubendorf.
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Volunteer Services Partners with Sherwood's LFI Program - January 3, 2024
Volunteer services at Brooke Grove Retirement Village recently welcomed a group of new volunteers from the Learning for Independence (LFI) program at neighboring Sherwood High School. The department's partnership with LFI provides special education students with opportunities to learn occupational skills, enjoy social interaction and experience positive behavior development. The students spend two hours each Monday through Thursday volunteering on campus.
"We hope to provide hands-on training and life experiences that will create excitement and enhance the lives of these students," said Director of Volunteer Services Barbara Hackett. Since last fall, they have assisted with holiday decorating, supported the environmenal services and LIFE enrichment teams, participated in brain fitness games and art, and were instrumental in the success of the department's collaboration with Sharp Street United Methodist Church and their holiday outreach project for the needy and homeless. "Volunteer Sarah Goforth and I love working with the students!" remarked Ms. Hackett. "Their enthusiasm is so gratifying."
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Village LIFE Newsletter - January 2, 2024
Read the latest news from Brooke Grove Retirement Village!
Documents
Village LIFE January-February 2024
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A Taste of Senior Living Brings Sweet Success to BGRV Chefs - March 4, 2023
Brooke Grove Retirement Village (BGRV) chefs wowed the crowds with their culinary sensations at "A Taste of Senior Living" held on March 2 at Ten Oaks Ballroom in Clarksville, Maryland. Hosted by LifeSpan Network, this friendly but highly competitive event featured the best in local senior living cuisine offered by 19 chef teams.
Executive Chef Derrick Gregg, Supervisor/Chef Clive Reid, Resource Chef Preston Cravey and Corporate Executive Chef Charlie Ware of Unidine at BGRV won "Best Entree" for their mouth-watering, honey-garlic jerk wings and Caribbean coleslaw. "Spectators and fellow chefs raved about how delicious it was!" said Unidine General Manager Alexandria Barnes, who oversees dining services at Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center and The Woods assisted living. "Many guests asked for seconds, thirds and even to-go boxes! I'm extremely proud of and grateful for our awesome team." "Your table was impeccable, the plate presentation beautiful, and obviously it was on pointn for flavor," added BGRV Executive Director Patty Gomez in a letter of congratulations to each chef.
Chef Victor Vilche and his team from independent living (IL) also made a distinctive impression on diners with their delicious Korean-style meatballs with sesame-ginger chili sauce and Sous Chef Imran Sos's Napa cabbage salad with peanut dressing, which has been enjoyed by the IL community in the past. Server Mahboob Ullah Khan assisted with the presentation. "Though we did not win this time, our culinary team made Westbrooke proud!" remarked Director of Independent Living Larry Willett. "We are thankful for their talents."
