Meadowlark

03/07/2026

Join us for the first-ever Caregiver Support Circle, offered in partnership with Accord Hospice. This welcoming group provides a space for adults caring for an adult loved one through illness to share successes and challenges, talk through day-to-day caregiving concerns, and connect with others who understand the journey.

Open to adults of any age caring for an adult loved one. This group is intended for family and friend caregivers.

📅 Monday, March 9 | 6 p.m.
📍 Flint Hills Room at Meadowlark

A Zoom option is also available. To receive the link, please call (785) 323-3899.

03/06/2026

✨ Fresh Face Friday ✨

Say hello to Eleanor Badeker, Meadowlark’s Health Information Management (HIM) Clerk!

Eleanor loves diving into the many moving parts that help Meadowlark care for residents each day. Working in the HIM office has given her a behind-the-scenes look at how everything comes together—from records to operations—and she enjoys learning more about the impressive work happening across the organization.

One of Eleanor’s favorite things about Meadowlark is the people. She says that simply walking down the halls often leads to kind words or fun interactions that brighten her day. 💙

📚 Fun fact: Eleanor is a big fantasy fan and loves reading stories that build entirely new worlds—especially ones with dragons! Growing up, her favorite movie was How to Train Your Dragon.

🌾 Outside of work: Eleanor enjoys spending time with her parents and their dog at home in the Flint Hills, often going for walks when the weather is nice. She also loves hanging out with friends and going out to concerts, plays, and community events.

We’re glad you’re part of the Meadowlark team, Eleanor! 👏

03/06/2026

March is National Social Work Month! Thank you to Linda Montgomery, Social Services & Life Enhancement Leader, and Kristen Martin, Care Transitions Leader, for all they do as our two amazing social workers at Meadowlark.

They have a clear passion for serving others and those who call Meadowlark home. Linda and Kristen provide invaluable resources and compassionate support to residents, guests, and their families every day, helping guide them through important transitions with care, empathy, and dedication.

We are proud to have them as part of the Meadowlark team! If you see them this month, please join us in thanking them for all they do!

02/27/2026

Yesterday, Meadowlark continued our 2026 Lenten Lecture Series, “A Search for Meaning.”

We were honored to welcome Dr. Lisa Melander, Professor of Sociology at Kansas State University, whose research focuses on incarceration, family relationships, and reentry. Her work explores how individuals maintain identity, connection, and purpose even in difficult circumstances.

Additionally, this week, Melanie Nord, Spiritual Life Leader, encouraged reflection on Viktor Frankl’s concept of logotherapy — the belief that meaning is the primary motivational force in life. Frankl observed that even in suffering, those who find meaning are better able to endure and grow.

Thank you to Dr. Melander and all who joined us as we continue exploring what it means to search for meaning — together.

02/19/2026

Rock Steady Boxing Meadowlark is a non-contact boxing class taught by certified coaches. An evaluation must be completed before attending the class. Please contact Jeff Heidbreder at (785) 537-4610 for more information.

Meadowlark in Manhattan: Wednesday at 3 p.m.
Peakform Sports & Wellness in Manhattan: Monday at 11 a.m. & Friday at 7:30 a.m.
Junction City Athletic Training Center: Tuesday & Thursday at 10 a.m.

Rock Steady Boxing is one way to improve balance, strength and agility for people with the neurodegenerative condition

02/18/2026

Today, on Ash Wednesday, Meadowlark welcomed the first lecture in our second annual Lenten Lecture Series — a season of humility, reflection, and spiritual growth.

Our 2026 theme, “A Search for Meaning,” is inspired by the book of Ecclesiastes, which speaks to the very human longing to understand purpose and meaning in our lives. This year’s foundational text is Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning, a powerful reminder that even in suffering, meaning can still be found.

We were honored to begin the series with guest speaker Brady Kappelmann, the 78th Student Body President at Kansas State University, who shared thoughtful perspective to launch the season.

The Lenten Lecture Series continues every Wednesday during the season of Lent from 1 to 2 p.m. in the Event Center at Meadowlark.

02/18/2026

Mark your calendars to attend a new support opportunity! This group will meet every second Monday at 6 p.m. and is hosted by Accord Hospice and Meadowlark Community Programs. No registration required - please, come as you are!

02/11/2026

We’re excited to recognize our February Employee of the Month — Brianna Barnhart, CNA in Collins House!

“Brianna is very kind, compassionate, and patient. She shows up to work every day and gives 110%. She goes above and beyond daily. Her coworkers enjoy when she is working. She helps out our team by picking up extra shifts when her availability allows, without expecting anything in return. We are so grateful to have her on our team in Collins!”

Congratulations, Brianna! Thank you for your dedication, teamwork, and the care you provide every day.

And a BIG thank-you to Meritrust Credit Union for sponsoring our Employee of the Month recognition!

02/07/2026

Fresh Face Friday! Say hello to Nickolas, one of Meadowlark’s newest team members! 👋

🌴 Fun fact: Nickolas is from Florida and recently graduated from HVAC school.

When asked what he enjoys about Meadowlark, he shared:
💬 “Everyone is so nice and welcoming — both residents and employees.”

Nickolas also loves his role because:
💬 “I like that I get to help residents and staff, and make their day better.”

🏍️ Spare time fun: In his free time, Nickolas enjoys riding his motorcycle (a CF Moto 800NK) and playing video games.

Please help us give Nickolas a warm Meadowlark welcome!

01/29/2026

Yesterday, the Meadowlark Ambassadors hosted a Kitchenware Donation Drive, and despite the cold and snowy weather, the generosity of our community shone through. The turnout was fantastic, and an impressive variety of kitchen items and tools were donated by Meadowlark residents and friends. Measuring spoons, mixing bowls, baking dishes, mugs, and many other essentials arrived in abundance and were greatly appreciated.

All donated items were sorted and distributed to three local organizations: Meadowlark Market, Kitchen Restore, and Cats Cupboard. These contributions will directly support our neighbors in need and help strengthen our community. Thanks to all who participated!