Residents and staff of Lincoln Home gathered for an ice cream social to honor Executive Director Lynn Norgang’s 23 years of leadership. The Lincoln Home has grown in many ways during Lynn’s tenure. In 2002, a new wing was added for assisted living apartments, common living and dining areas, all positioned to enjoy the views of Damariscotta River. The original Bryant Homestead was completely renovated to provide four independent apartments. As needs of seniors evolved, the choice to offer a complete continuum of care brought the addition of Harbor View Cottage Memory Care across the street and One2One Home Care, for those who wished to stay at home.  Next, renovations to increase apartment size and add kitchenettes allowed residents more options in individualized, senior living.  

Since 1925, the Lincoln Home has been a not for profit, stand alone community, deeply rooted in the heart of Lincoln county. Under Lynn’s and the Board of Director’s leadership, the Lincoln Home is living evidence of what can be accomplished through dedication and a collaborative community effort. Fundraising efforts have evolved over the years from the Founder’s Day Auction to the annual Lobster & More event. A Residents’ Assistance Fund was established to enable residents who have outlived their resources to remain at Lincoln Home.

Lynn provided a unique form of leadership as both a nurse and a director.  Her philosophy was rooted in providing person-centered care and joyful and abundant living each and every day. Lincoln Home’s distinctive approach to resident care has been based on the Best Friends Philosophy for many years. In 2019, Lynn became a certified trainer in the Best Friend’s Approach to Caregiving, and personally trained the entire staff of seventy plus employees at Harbor View Cottage and Lincoln Home.  This compassionate approach to care is based on building relationships based on friendship, empathy, support and individual strengths and abilities. As a direct result of this philosophy, the staff feels like family to one another and to the residents.  This was especially prevalent during the initial months of COVID-19.  Many residents spoke of their gratitude for the level of care, safety and kindness they received during a time when they were unable to see their family members. Staff members shared how much they always felt appreciated and respected by Lynn.

The Board of Directors honored Lynn with a granite bench at the entrance of Lincoln Home, with the inscription, “Honoring 23 Years of Leadership Providing Joyful and Abundant Living at Lincoln Home.” Lynn made a difference in the lives of others, each and every day. She will be missed by the many people she touched; staff, residents, families and members of the community.