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Home Care In Perryville, MD

Home Care Perryville, MD

They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Rodgers Tavern Museum gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Perryville, MD is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Perryville, MD

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The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best care is the best! Their caregiver is very nice with respective attitude. They are all expert and knows their job very well in all ages. I never regret that their service to take care of my grandmother. They are trustworthy, respectful, honest and passionate to their work. I highly recommend them on their work.”

Facundo K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a past client of this provider My mother passed away two months ago after nearly four years of coverage from the team members of ABC Upper Chesapeake. Mom and I were both very pleased with the coverage. ABC was most congenial to do their best to provide Mom with caretakers whom we found suited to Mom's personality and temperament. In the very few cases this was not so, we asked for someone else to care for Mom and this was promptly provided. All in all the caretakers were kind, friendly, competent and helpful, providing Mom with good care and company. Elaine G was very helpful in getting us in contact with the VA so that Mom was able to obtain a monthly benefit entitled to her because of Dad's service in the military. That was a great financial help to us in our particular situation. I strongly recommend this agency for the homebound and ill. They will work with you to do all they can to grant your reasonable requests. Thank you, Elaine and caretakers!”

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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a past client of this provider ABC Upper Chesapeake provided excellent and compassionate care for my late father during his prolonged decline at age 95. The care enabled him to live in his home with my mom during his final months of life. Elaine worked with me diligently to match my parents' difficult situation with the perfect caregiver. My father was treated with dignity and gentleness when he was no longer able to care for himself at all. It gave our family great peace of mind knowing he was so well cared for.”

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TESTIMONIALS

“I met with Elaine Gill as we needed a secure place for my Dad. She was very knowledgeable and professional. Fortunately, the second location she showed us was a good fit (Dakota Paradise). I heartily recommend Always Best Care if you want help finding a loved one the proper care.”

Keith S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I cannot really find the words to say how wonderful the staff is at Always Best Care of Upper Chesapeake: Highly competent, Comforting, caring, extremely attentive, endlessly patient and reassuring. Elaine Gill has done an amazing job at ensuring that the staff she has are just as committed to ensuring the highest quality of life for every client, as Elaine! You are on the top of my list for any further care services that my family members may need going forward.”

Alan L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I interviewed this provider I used Always Best Care to care for my parents who happen to live in another state. I met with Elaine (the owner) to discuss my options and determine the best caregiver service to meet my parents needs. She was a great help; addressed all my questions and concerns and gave me peace of mind that my parents were in good hands. Their caregiver is wonderful and very competent. I don't have to worry about them or become a detective to find out what is going on with them in Maryland. Although my parents were a little skeptical at first, Elaine and her staff have put their mind at ease and made them feel very comfortable about the entire experience. They both feel much safer now and happier that they are able to stay in the home that they love. I am comforted in knowing that my parents are receiving quality care and they are in the capable hands of Elaine and her staff at Always Best Care. Words can not express my sincere gratitude for the awesome care provided to my parents.”

Mz C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I used Always Best Care to care for my parents who happen to live in another state. I met with Elaine (the owner) to discuss my options and determine the best caregiver service to meet my parents needs. She was a great help; addressed all my questions and concerns and gave me peace of mind that my parents were in good hands. Their caregiver is wonderful and very competent. I don't have to worry about them or become a detective to find out what is going on with them in Maryland. Although my parents were a little skeptical at first, Elaine and her staff have put their mind at ease and made them feel very comfortable about the entire experience. They both feel much safer now and happier that they are able to stay in the home that they love. I am comforted in knowing that my parents are receiving quality care and they are in the capable hands of Elaine and her staff at Always Best Care. Words can not express my sincere gratitude for the awesome care provided to my parents.”

Monica C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a past client of this provider I cannot really find the words to say how wonderful the staff is at Always Best Care of Upper Chesapeake: Highly competent, Comforting, caring, extremely attentive, endlessly patient and reassuring. Elaine Gill has done an amazing job at ensuring that the staff she has are just as committed to ensuring the highest quality of life for every client, as Elaine! You are on the top of my list for any further care services that my family members may need going forward.”

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TESTIMONIALS

“I interviewed this provider Elaine is professional, knowledgeable, and has a heart for people. Her recommendations have been invaluable. We are thankful for Always Best! It is a 5 Star Company!!”

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TESTIMONIALS

“I interviewed this provider When we needed help getting our Father the proper care we were recommended to Elaine and ABC. It was the right move. Fortunately for us the second location she showed us was the right fit. It's been a difficult time and having their expertise eased our concerns.”

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What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Perryville, MD?

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Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

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When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

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The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

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At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

 Senior Care Perryville, MD

Types of Elderly Care in Perryville, MD

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care Perryville, MD
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Perryville, MD
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Perryville Community Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Perryville, MD
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Johnny's Sushi House or visit Lower Ferry Park, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

 In-Home Care Perryville, MD

Benefits of Home Care in Perryville, MD

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in Perryville, MD, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

 Elderly Care Perryville, MD

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your MD's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care Perryville, MD

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Perryville, MD understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.


Respite Care Perryville, MD

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers Perryville, MD

At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.

Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.

Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:

  • Elliott's Assisted Living
  • REVERENT NURSING CARE, LLC
  • D & G Assisted Living Communities
  • Always There Assisted Living
  • Always in Grace Assisted Living
  • Fairgreen Senior Community
Home Care Perryville, MD

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

 In-Home Care Perryville, MD

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

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A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Perryville, MD 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

 Elderly Care Perryville, MD

Latest News in Perryville, MD

Cecil College’s Cybersecurity Program earns prestigious re-designation

This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.SchoolsThis recognition underscores Cecil College's commitment to providing a high-quality education in cyber defense.Richard Haubert, Community Contributor|Updated Wed, Nov 6, 2024 at 9:18 am ETNORTH EAST, Md: ...

This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Schools

This recognition underscores Cecil College's commitment to providing a high-quality education in cyber defense.

Richard Haubert, Community Contributor

|Updated Wed, Nov 6, 2024 at 9:18 am ET

NORTH EAST, Md: Cecil College is proud to announce that its Cybersecurity degree program has been re-designated as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This prestigious recognition will be in effect through October 2029 and follows the College’s initial designation received in 2019.

The CAE-CD designation is awarded to cybersecurity programs that adhere to rigorous academic and institutional standards established by the NSA and DHS. This recognition underscores the College’s commitment to providing a high-quality education in cyber defense, ensuring that students are well-prepared for careers in the fast-evolving field of cybersecurity.

“This redesignation as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense reflects our dedication to excellence in cybersecurity education,” said Dr. Mary Way Bolt, President of Cecil College. “This achievement reaffirms our commitment to preparing our students for critical roles in safeguarding our nation’s digital infrastructure.”

Earning the CAE-CD designation is particularly significant for two-year community colleges, as it validates the relevance and rigor of their curriculum in producing graduates equipped with essential skills to combat the nation’s growing cybersecurity threats. The process for obtaining this designation involves demonstrating a robust foundation in cybersecurity education, showcasing faculty expertise, providing student support, and offering hands-on learning opportunities and industry engagement.

“We are honored to receive this redesignation, which reflects our ongoing commitment to excellence in cybersecurity education,” said Dr. James Morgan, professor of cybersecurity and author of the CAE-CD application. “Our program is dedicated to equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in this critical field, and we are excited about the opportunities this designation brings for our students.”

Find out what's happening in Perryvillewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Students enrolled in CAE-CD designated programs benefit greatly from this recognition. They receive an education endorsed by leading federal agencies, along with enhanced access to scholarships, internships, and career opportunities within both government and private sectors.

The CAE-CD designation elevates the program’s reputation, enabling students to participate in national cybersecurity competitions and collaborative research projects. Moreover, graduates of these programs often enjoy preferential consideration for cybersecurity roles, as the CAE-CD credential signifies their preparedness to tackle real-world cyber defense challenges.

“Thank you to Dr. James Morgan, Professor of Cybersecurity, and Dr. Veronica Dougherty, Dean of Arts and Sciences, for leading Cecil College through the rigorous process of re-designation as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This not only showcases Cecil College’s pursuit of excellence, it also provides opportunities for our students related to employment or transfer.

Employers and four-year partners will recognize that Cecil College students meet best practice standards upon completing their cybersecurity education,” said Cecil College Vice President of Academics Dr. Christy Dryer.

For more information about the Cybersecurity degree program at Cecil College, please visit www.cecil.edu/cybersecurity.

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About Cecil College

Located in Cecil County, Md., Cecil College continues to be a catalyst for the region’s economic growth and enhanced quality of life. The College has a diverse student population, with approximately 2,200 credit students and 2,300 non-credit students, and includes campuses in North East and Elkton. Cecil offers 70+ associate degrees, certificate programs, and non-credit classes. Noteworthy distinctions include the designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) in Cyber Defense Education by the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Cecil College is a Maryland Junior College Athletic Conference member in all sports and competes in the National Junior College Athletic Association. The College fields men’s baseball, basketball, and soccer; and women’s basketball, softball, and volleyball.

Scholarship Breakfast celebrates generosity and student success

This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.SchoolsCecil College Foundation awarded scholarships to 365 students, totaling an impressive $501,399.Richard Haubert, Community ContributorNORTH EAST, Md: The Cecil College Foundation proudly hosted its annual S...

This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Schools

Cecil College Foundation awarded scholarships to 365 students, totaling an impressive $501,399.

Richard Haubert, Community Contributor

NORTH EAST, Md: The Cecil College Foundation proudly hosted its annual Scholarship Breakfast at the Rising Sun Banquet Hall, bringing together more than 260 donors, scholarship recipients, Cecil County officials, and College and Foundation representatives. This special event serves as a platform for scholarship donors to meet the students whose futures they are helping to shape.

Dr. Mary Way Bolt, Cecil College president, addressed attendees, emphasizing the profound impact of their contributions. “You are making a difference in the lives of these young people,” she remarked. “Look around this room at the students who are sitting with you. I encourage you to talk to them and hear their stories. You have made it possible for them to have a brighter future.”

This year, the Cecil College Foundation awarded scholarships to 365 students, totaling an impressive $501,399. Two of these scholarship recipients shared their inspiring stories with the audience.

Find out what's happening in Perryvillewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

In light of the increasing cost of higher education, community colleges are gaining recognition as vital solutions to the student debt crisis. According to the U.S. Department of Education, tuition at in-state, four-year colleges has surged by 133 percent since 2005, rising from an average of $5,275 to more than $12,000. Community colleges, including Cecil College, provide affordable pathways to quality education, helping students achieve their academic and career goals without the burden of overwhelming debt.

During the breakfast, the Mary A. Maloney Distinguished Service Award was presented to Phyllis R. Zeise in honor of her philanthropic contributions and extensive community service.

The event concluded with the presentation of Health Education Lift Program (HELP) Fund Awards to incoming nursing students, equipping them with essential tools for their program, including stethoscopes and blood pressure cuffs. The Cecil College Foundation is actively seeking additional donors to enhance the HELP Fund and expand its support for students. To donate, please visit www.cecil.edu/donate or call 410-287-1146.

The Cecil College Foundation Board of Directors, comprising 25 community leaders, is dedicated to developing financial resources to support Cecil College students. The scholarship application for the next academic year opens on October 1 at www.cecil.edu/scholarships. Learn more today at www.cecil.edu/foundation

Cecil College celebrates 20 Years of Dedication: Jerry Arnold

This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.SchoolsHis passion for education was ignited when he guest lectured for a colleague's class.Richard Haubert, Community Contributor|Updated Wed, Nov 6, 2024 at 9:17 am ETNORTH EAST, Md: As an adjunct instru...

This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Schools

His passion for education was ignited when he guest lectured for a colleague's class.

Richard Haubert, Community Contributor

|Updated Wed, Nov 6, 2024 at 9:17 am ET

NORTH EAST, Md: As an adjunct instructor at Cecil College, Jerry Arnold has dedicated more than two decades to teaching Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. His passion for education was ignited when he guest lectured for a colleague’s class, leading to an opportunity to teach after her departure.

“It was so much fun meeting the new students, working with them, and showing them all the software’s capabilities,” he recalls.

In his classes, Mr. Arnold emphasizes using professional software to ensure students gain practical experience. He covers the basics of Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop, guiding students of varying skill levels through the foundational aspects of graphic design. While many students arrive with some knowledge of Photoshop and InDesign, Illustrator is often a new technology to them, allowing Mr. Arnold to foster a supportive learning environment.

“Jerry continues to be an inspiration to students and brings that ever so important quality of real-world experience into the classroom,” said Dan Krukosky, Associate Professor of Visual Communications and Chair of Arts and Visual Communication.

A native of Bel Air, Md., Mr. Arnold’s journey in the arts began at Harford Community College before going on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Fine Arts from Frostburg University, setting the stage for a diverse career that has spanned aerospace, healthcare, and public health for the Department of Defense. These have included working for Martin Marietta, Johns Hopkins University, and the Aberdeen Proving Grounds.

Find out what's happening in Perryvillewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

“The technology has changed during my 20 years at Cecil College,” Mr. Arnold observes, noting how advancements have made tasks easier and more intuitive. He takes pride in demonstrating the evolution of graphic design, from traditional board art to the dynamic capabilities of today’s software.

He skillfully adapts his teaching methods to accommodate varying levels of experience, ensuring each student gains a solid foundation in graphic design. His approach helps students tackle the basics and fosters their ability to generate original artwork.

Mr. Arnold imparts real-world knowledge to his students on how to conceptualize designs within their intended environments. Whether showcasing a T-shirt design or creating 3D models for displays, he provides a practical understanding of how design works in the real world. Near the semester’s end, he guides students in client interactions and project management, equipping them with essential skills for their future careers.

“Jerry Arnold continues to be a valued member of our Visual Communications faculty at Cecil College. We are thankful that he shares his expertise, passion, and creativity with our students, not only enhancing their skills but also igniting their passion for their discipline,” said Vice President Academic Programs Dr. Christy Dryer.

Mr. Arnold’s influence extends beyond the classroom; he is also a recognized designer, having won national competitions such as the National Cherry Blossom Festival design contest and the Guru Award for Excellence in Photoshop Design.

“Winning a contest is a rewarding experience, one that reaffirms your creative abilities. Design is not just a job; it’s a chance to express yourself and produce something meaningful. I look forward to seeing my students grow and succeed in their creative journeys,” said Mr. Arnold.

Mr. Arnold takes pride in his students’ achievements, noting the journey of one particularly energetic student, Sheila Reist, who has excelled in graphic design. He remains connected with alumni, celebrating their successes on social media and encouraging current students to embrace their potential.

Mr. Arnold continues to inspire students by blending his extensive professional experience with a passion for teaching, preparing them for successful careers in the ever-evolving field of graphic design.

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