On November 13, 2025 friends of The Cedars gathered in the Atrium for a Legacy Circle luncheon that was both a celebration and a call to action. As The Cedars approaches its centennial, the room was filled with warmth, gratitude, and a shared sense of purpose—honoring the foundation laid by those who came before while imagining all that lies ahead.
Throughout the afternoon, legacy was explored not as numbers on a page, but as something deeply human: a statement of values, a gift of meaning.
The Jewish concept of l’dor v’dor—from generation to generation—wove through the conversation, reminding everyone present that what we inherit is both a blessing and a responsibility. We hold it briefly, then pass it forward with care.Speakers shared stories that brought the mission to life.
The Household Model was described not just as a program, but as a reimagining of home—where daily rhythms honor dignity and belonging. Mindful Connections was celebrated for the way it wraps its arms around families navigating memory loss, offering support so they can continue living safely and joyfully together. And Opening Minds Through Art drew smiles as guests heard about the intergenerational magic that happens when people with dementia, students, and facilitators gather to create—proving that self-expression and connection know no boundaries.
Planned giving options were introduced as practical pathways for sustaining this work: bequests, beneficiary designations, charitable gift annuities, and trusts—each a different way to plant seeds for tomorrow.
The gathering closed with a beautiful Talmudic teaching about planting a carob tree, knowing you may never taste its fruit. It was the perfect image for everyone in the room: people planting shade they may never sit under, because they believe in the future being built together.
Watch for details about the next Legacy Circle gathering, where we’ll explore these options further and discuss how your values can shape The Cedars’ next century.
Contact us at 207-221-7007 or development@thecedarsportland.org to learn more about opportunities to support The Cedars through an estate commitment and to learn about the Charitable Gift Annuity Program that is now available in our community through Bar Harbor Bank.