C3 is a voluntary program that recognizes environmental stewardship at Michigan companies.  The designation is awarded to facilities adopting specific environmental management systems, have active and ongoing pollution prevention initiatives in place, and provide a consistent record of compliance with state and federal environmental requirements.

“I am happy to welcome Pilgrim Manor as Michigan’s first retirement community to join our Clean Corporate Citizen program,” said Steven E. Chester, director of the MDEQ.  “Pilgrim Manor has recognized that protecting our environment furthers their efforts to create a healthy living environment for their community.” 

According to the Rev. George Heartwell, Pilgrim Manor’s president and CEO, the designation follows nearly two years of preparation, planning and implementation.

“Our residents and staff understand environmental stewardship is the responsibility of every person and institution on the globe,” he said. “We are proud to receive this designation and look forward to continuing to identify innovative ways to lead our `green stewardship’ on behalf of our residents and their families.”

Founded in 1963 as a not-for-profit corporation affiliated with the United Church of Christ, Pilgrim Manor Retirement Community offers a full range of community services, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, respite care, skilled nursing and rehabilitation.  Celebrating 45 years of quality care in Grand Rapids, Pilgrim Manor is dedicated to providing a community for older adults that enables them to meet their ongoing physical, social and spiritual needs, affirming their dignity, meaning and growth.