Cypress Village residents recognized for community service
Three Cypress Village residents were honored for their outstanding volunteer contributions at the 2026 University of North Florida (UNF) Community Gala, where they received the UNF Healthcare Community Service Award.
Cypress Village was the sponsor the special event and celebrated Karl Shaffer, Sarah Sharpe and Gaynell Kind for their dedication to service, creativity and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Each resident was recognized for their unique contributions to the Cypress Village community.
Shaffer was honored for his leadership of the Garden Club, dedication to environmental stewardship and countless hours spent creating and maintaining beautiful garden spaces throughout the community.
Sharpe was recognized for bringing nature, creativity and meaningful engagement to residents in the Healthcare Center and Memory Care through gardening and enrichment activities.
Kind was celebrated for sharing her creativity and compassion through arts, crafts and nature-inspired activities that bring joy and connection to fellow residents.
The evening featured a keynote presentation by Scott Kashman titled “The Art of Healthcare: Humor, Empathy and Insight in the Age of A.I.,” followed by the awards celebration, live music and dancing.
Cypress Village extended its heartfelt appreciation to the University of North Florida's Brooks College of Health for recognizing the contributions of its residents and hosting an evening celebrating service and community impact.
The recognition highlights the meaningful role residents continue to play in strengthening their community and enriching the lives of those around them.
Cypress Village hosts pumpkin decorating for a good cause
Creativity, friendly competition and community spirit came together at Cypress Village during a pumpkin decorating contest benefiting the Alzheimer’s Association.
Staff members and departments from across Cypress Village participated in the festive competition, transforming pumpkins into creative works of art while coming together in support of a meaningful cause.
Adding a special touch to the event, Cypress Village residents served as judges, casting their votes for their favorite pumpkin designs. The contest gave residents an opportunity to participate in the festivities, celebrate the creativity of the staff and enjoy the excitement of the fall season.
All proceeds raised through the contest benefited the Alzheimer’s Association, supporting a cause that impacts individuals, families and communities across the country.
Beyond the decorations and friendly rivalry, the event brought Cypress Village’s staff, departments and residents together through teamwork, generosity and a shared commitment to giving back.
The contest reflected Cypress Village’s continued dedication to creating meaningful experiences that foster connection, encourage participation and strengthen the community.
Through a little creativity and a lot of heart, Cypress Village turned a seasonal celebration into an opportunity to make a difference, one pumpkin at a time.
