Serenity Hospice and Home’s annual Garden Party blossomed beautifully this past Saturday, May 9, 2026, at the Stronghold Camp and Retreat Center as an enthusiastic crowd gathered under sunny skies inside the Brubaker Center to celebrate this year’s theme: “Crowns of Kindness.”•
From the moment guests arrived, the day was filled with color, creativity, and meaningful connection. An expanded Petal Pushers pop-up shop featured stunning handcrafted items made from real flowers — from artwork and greeting cards to gift bags and more. The Bloom Bar invited guests to create their own bouquets with fresh flowers and greenery, while raffle items, a silent dessert auction, and gorgeous hanging flower baskets added excitement and fun throughout the day.
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Inside the dining hall, guests shared laughter, conversation, and a delicious meal while hearing heartfelt stories of Serenity’s impact from Karen Sikorski, Suzanne Ravlin, Carol Anderson, and Jodi Ziegler. Their words beautifully reflected the compassionate care and support Serenity provides to patients and families every day.
One of the highlights of the afternoon was the beloved “Pass the Purse” fundraiser. This year’s stunning Kate Spade purse auction raised more than $2,000 for patient care, with the lucky winner taking home both the purse and 50% of the donations collected inside.
In keeping with the theme, tables were adorned with vintage hats and floral displays that reminded guests of the many “hats” we all wear in life — for work, family, friendship, caregiving, and service. A special thank you to Karen Virnoche and Pam Gambrel for generously sharing their beautiful hat collections and helping create such a spectacular atmosphere.The entire event was a joyful celebration of kindness, community, and compassionate care. Thank you to all our sponsors, volunteers, staff, donors, and guests who made this year’s Garden Party such a meaningful success. Together, you continue to help Serenity provide extraordinary care to patients and families throughout our communities. 
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