Serenity Pond has long served as a peaceful retreat at Ohio Living Dorothy Love in Sidney, Ohio. Located in the center of the community, the pond sits between the ranch-style homes and the main building, which houses residents in independent living, assisted living, rehabilitation and skilled nursing care. During the spring of 2024, a resident-driven transformation of the space began, and the project was recently completed.
The Serenity Pond revitalization project started with resident safety in mind. Paths were excavated and widened, now spacious enough for two golf carts to pass comfortably. The pond was deepened, improving water health and reducing algae. Areas prone to erosion were stabilized, making the space more accessible year-round.
“Residents stood outside to watch the progress and offered ideas that shaped each phase,” shared Nancy Hamilton, director of gift planning at Ohio Living Dorothy Love. “We asked residents what this place could become. And they showed us. Every step of the process reflected the spirit of community; meeting diverse needs across all levels of care and creating a space everyone could enjoy.”
In addition to structural improvements to the pond and surrounding areas, donors helped restock the pond with fish, and a new fishing platform was built to extend over the water. New benches on concrete pads were also added to invite visitors to pause and soak in the scenery.
“The final gift we received for the project funded a pavilion that now partially covers the fishing platform,” explained Hamilton. “It’s named the Allinger Serenity Pavilion, in honor of Alma Allinger, who made the very first gift 18 years ago and gave Serenity Pond its name. Fittingly, the donors who made the pavilion possible are Alma’s daughter and her husband, now residents here on campus. It’s a beautiful story of a project coming full circle.”
The revitalized pond has become a new hub for nature lovers and quiet reflection. A rededication ceremony was held on Sept. 18 with Ohio Living employees and residents to celebrate.
“A heartfelt thank-you to everyone who made this vision a reality,” emphasized Hamilton. “Serenity Pond is now a space for all to enjoy, for generations to come! This project reflects the spirit of our community, and we’re incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together.”
To learn more about how you can support initiatives like this, visit the Ohio Living Foundation at ohioliving.org/foundation. You can also contact the team by email at giving@ohioliving.org or by phone at 614.888.7800, ext. 1047.