Making Wishes Come True: Mentor's Golden Grant Program

_{February 15, 2024}
Mentor Ridge’s Golden Grant program has started with a smooth drum beat, the chime of a winning slot machine, and the silky “voice of romance,” Johnny Mathis stirring up sweet memories for one of our dear long-term care community members, Elaine G.

When we asked Elaine what she would love to do again or for the first time if given the chance, she, without hesitation, reminisced about seeing Johnny Mathis in concert more than once and listening to all of his records, which she owned. “Boy, could he sing! He was a good looking guy too, you know,” she giggled.



As luck would have it, Elaine was selected as the first Golden Grant recipient. Our Activity Director began looking for Johnny Mathis impersonators and discovered that the man himself was going to be performing in the area. The Grant team got to work to make Elaine’s wish come true and was more successful than originally imagined. Tickets were acquired and plans were made.

Elaine speaks kindly of all the staff members of the Ridge but states that she has a special place in her heart for nurse Katie. So, Katie happily agreed to accompany Elaine and our Activity Director, Jenn, to the concert. When the day arrived, Katie helped Elaine pick the perfect outfit and then did her hair and makeup.

After arriving at the venue, there was some time before the main event, so Elaine tried her luck at one of the slot machines. Lady Luck was on her side and happily obliged our 91-year-old friend by “putting the pigs in the proper pen.”

We were fortunate to have acquired great seats for the show and we were even more fortunate to find a card with Elaine’s name on it taped to her seat, making her feel extra special. This card wishing Elaine a most wonderful evening was signed by Johnny Mathis himself, and also members of the entertainment team of MGM Center Stage. It was so heartfelt and exciting!



Finally, the time arrived for Elaine’s favorite guy to take the stage. For the next couple of hours, she was entranced by Johnny’s sweet voice and charismatic personality. Her smile was so bright as she danced in her seat, clapped her hands, and made remarks like, “Oh, Johnny. You still got it.”

Thank you to everyone at MGM for your kind professionalism and for helping to make Elaine’s special night even more special. We, at Mentor Ridge, are so grateful that we could grant Elaine this golden evening. We are looking forward to making more wishes come true!