Methodist Village Senior Living Receives $500,000 Challenge Grant from the J.E. and L.E. Mabee Foundation

Fort Smith, AR (January 23, 2026) – Methodist Village Senior Living (MVSL) is filled with gratitude as we announce our receipt of a $500,000 Challenge Grant from the J.E. and L.E. Mabee Foundation. This generous grant will be instrumental in the renovation and expansion of existing rooms at the MVSL Care Center, allowing us to continue providing exceptional care to our cherished residents.

This funding will enable us to create a more welcoming and functional environment that enhances the well-being of our residents and staff. We are dedicated to ensuring that each individual who walks through our doors feels valued and supported, and this grant brings us closer to achieving that mission.

"We are deeply thankful to the Mabee Foundation for their incredible support," said Melissa Curry, CEO of MVSL. "This grant not only helps us improve our facilities but also strengthens our commitment to serving our community with compassion and dignity."

Kenneth Siebenmorgen, President of the Board, expressed his appreciation as well: "This grant is a testament to the trust and belief that the Mabee Foundation has in our mission. It inspires us to work even harder to create a nurturing environment for our residents, ensuring they feel at home at MVSL."

Rachel Bunch, Executive Director of the Arkansas Health Care Association, emphasized the broader statewide impact of MVSL’s investments: "Methodist Village Senior Living’s commitment to both high-quality senior care and workforce innovation through projects like the Care Center renovations and The Village Early Learning Center is exactly what Arkansas needs. These initiatives strengthen our healthcare workforce by supporting caregivers, families, and working parents, while ensuring older Arkansans receive the care and dignity they deserve. MVSL is setting a powerful example of how community investment can shape the future of Arkansas’s workforce and healthcare system."

The Challenge Grant is part of a broader initiative to raise an additional $2,000,000 to fully realize our renovation project. At Methodist Village Senior Living, we are committed to adapting to our residents' needs, and this generous support is a significant step forward in that journey, says Curry.

For more information about the MVSL Care Center and our upcoming renovations, please visit www.methodistvillage.com or contact Melissa Curry at 479-755-6481.

Our mission is “To provide wonderful life experiences that enable our residents and their families to lead full and enriching lives.” Our vision is “To exceed the expectations of our residents and families while inspiring hearts and minds.”

Serving our Mission, Striving for our Vision, Sharing Stories, and Leaving a Legacy—For 63 years, MVSL has been caring for our community’s elders through Independent, Assisted, Memory Care, Long-Term Care, and Rehab. Seated on 30 acres in central Fort Smith, our campus is the only “Life Plan Community” in the River Valley. We are pushing forward with innovative care and education, focusing on the whole person and creating a place you would be happy to call home. Call 479-452-1611 to schedule a tour today.

For more information, visit methodistvillage.com