Asbury Inc. contributes to annual event

A Holston-related retirement community is committing $75,000 over the next three years to bolster Holston’s annual spring retreat for seniors.

Asbury Inc., based in Maryville, Tenn., announced that it would give $25,000 annually through 2010 to support Jubilation, the conference’s leading venture into older-adult ministry.

The funds will dramatically increase the annual Jubilation budget, which was $60,000 for the event held March 18-20 in Kingsport, according to the Rev. Bob Bostick, Holston coordinator of older adult ministries.

Asbury leaders explained that reducing the organization’s total campuses from five to three within the last decade has made additional funds available for “broader ministry.” Asbury’s downsizing has reduced the amount of free and discounted care required from an endowment fund interest income, they said.

“Let’s face it, most of the endowment fund has come from folks related to the Holston Conference,” said Asbury President Bernie Bowman. “This is our way of giving back to some of the people who made those funds available.

“We want to make the point to everyone that a new Asbury is being born, with a renewed relationship with the conference,” Bowman said.

Asbury leaders hope the three-year commitment will allow Jubilation organizers to “significantly upgrade” the event.

A record 375 older adults participated in Jubilation 2007, most paying about $185 each for activities and accommodations at MeadowView Resort and Conference Center. Asbury’s contribution will increase the number of partial and total scholarships offered to older adults needing financial assistance to attend Jubilation, Bostick said.

The funds will also help upgrade publicity, speakers, and performers – and perhaps provide charter buses from the Chattanooga and Wytheville areas. Ultimately, the Jubilation Design Team hopes to increase participation in the annual gathering for people ages 55 and above.

“This is going to make it better,” said Bostick. “I’m glad to be standing in the wings where they decided to put the money.”

In its ninth year, Jubilation 2008 will be held April 6-8 at MeadowView in Kingport, Tenn. To be included on the mailing list, contact Bostick at bobbostick@holston.org or (865) 293-4134.

Asbury Inc. has about 725 residents on its three campuses in Maryville, Kingsport, and Johnson City. For more information, visit asburyplace.org.