# West End Home Foundation


## Posts

- [Middle Tennessee Donors Forum Appoints New Executive Director](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/middle-tennessee-donors-forum-appoints-new-executive-director/): For nearly four decades, the Middle Tennessee Donors Forum (MTDF) has served as a trusted network for the region’s leading philanthropic organizations. What began in 1985 as informal gatherings among foundation and corporate donors—sharing ideas, successes, and challenges—has grown into a dynamic network of philanthropic leaders working together (alongside nonprofit and community leaders) to build stronger, better-resourced communities across Middle Tennessee. Now a formalized network of foundation leaders, trustees, and corporate social responsibility professionals, the Middle Tennessee Donors Forum provides a vital space for connection, shared learning, and partnership. Through educational programs, networking events, and collaborative initiatives, members gain valuable […]
- [AgeWell Middle Tennessee Sage Awards Recognize Exemplary Community Service](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/agewell-middle-tennessee-sage-awards-recognize-exemplary-community-service/): AgeWell Middle Tennessee held its 33rd Annual Sage Awards on Friday, November 7, 2025 at the Cool Springs Marriott. The Sage Awards celebrates leaders whose extraordinary contributions have transformed our community. Honorees at this year’s event included Brenda Payne, Jerry B. Williams, Deb Varallo, Lelan Statom, Rick Warwick and Abe’s Community Gardens. Nancy Conway received the annual Elizabeth Jacobs Distinguished Service Award. Nancy has been an unwavering ambassador for AgeWell, especially in Williamson County, where her dedication to community service and relationship-building continues to inspire. AgeWell Middle Tennessee is a trusted community resource, convener and catalyst for solutions, and a […]
- [Rebuilding Together Nashville partners with city, private philanthropy to fix code violations and keep older adults safely housed](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/rebuilding-together-nashville-partners-with-city-private-philanthropy-to-fix-code-violations-and-keep-older-adults-safely-housed/): On the steps of the Historic Courthouse and City Hall, Rebuilding Together Nashville and the General Sessions Court of Metropolitan Nashville and Davidson County announced the launch of the Environmental Court partnership. This innovative partnership provides a new pathway to convert qualifying codes cases into completed repairs, verified compliance, and case dismissal, allowing longtime Nashvillians, particularly cost-burdened older adults, to remain safely in the homes they love. Under the new partnership, the Environmental Court will refer eligible cases to Rebuilding Together to scope the work and complete the needed repairs. Next, Metro Codes will inspect the work, and the Court […]
- [Health Line](https://www.healthline.com/health/ageism#_2)
- [Changing the Narrative](https://changingthenarrativeco.org/resources-2023/)
- [Reframing Aging: Getting Better about Older](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Getting-Better-About-Older.pdf)
- [Reframing Aging: Strong Messages about Frailty](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Strong-Messages-About-Frailty.pdf)
- [Reframing Aging: Solutions Matter](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Solutions-Matter.pdf)
- [The Story of Reframing Aging](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/RAI-Intro-Infographic-5.pdf)
- [Changing the Narrative is a national initiative to end ageism](https://changingthenarrativeco.org/)
- [Communication Best Practices](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/RAI-Communication-Best-Practices-Guide-220328.pdf)
- [Impact Report: SeniorTrust Grant Program / Serving Older Adults Age 60+](https://www.flipsnack.com/A69956D9E8C/seniortrust-grant-program-impact-report/full-view.html)
- [Community Life Bridge](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Community-Life-Bridge-Project-Spotlight.pdf)
- [The Branch of Nashville](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/The-Branch-of-Nashville-Community-Impact-Article.pdf)
- [Mental Health America of the MidSouth](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Mental-Health-America-of-the-MidSouth.pdf)
- [SeniorTrust Digital Literacy and Inclusion for Older Tennesseans: Final Impact Report](https://www.flipsnack.com/A69956D9E8C/digital-literacy-and-inclusion-for-older-tennesseans-final/full-view.html)
- [The Sycamore Institute: Digital Literacy Among Tennessee’s Older Adults](https://sycamoretn.org/digital-literacy-older-adults/)
- [Rebuilding Together – Nashville](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Rebuilding-Together-Nashville-Project-Spotlight-Article.final_.pdf)
- [Senior Trust Digital Literacy Grant Update](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/senior-trust-digital-literacy-grant-update/): Since late summer/early fall 2022, thirty projects funded by the Senior Trust Digital Literacy Grant have been underway across Tennessee.  We are excited to report that the projects have wrapped up and we are incredibly grateful for all of the work that has been done to increase the digital literacy of older adults throughout the state.  A comprehensive impact report is forthcoming, but we are excited to share a few highlights from the report. The Senior Trust Digital Literacy Grant Funded Agencies:  Served over 6,429 individuals directly Taught a total of 1,818 training classes Provided 1,299 rides to access programming Offered internet subsidies […]
- [AgeWell Middle Tennessee](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/WEHF-Program-Spotlight-Eldercare-Coach-4.8.24.pdf)
- [AgeWell Middle Tennessee’s Eldercare Coach: Supporting Family Caregivers](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/agewell-middle-tennessees-eldercare-coach-supporting-family-caregivers/): As a nonprofit that champions older adults and their families and develops innovative solutions for unmet needs, AgeWell Middle Tennessee offers Eldercare Coach, providing education and care navigation support for family caregivers. With 10,000 baby boomers turning 65 everyday through 2029, eldercare is on the rise. In fact, there are over 40 million Americans providing care for aging loved ones, and 61% of those caregivers are working, most full time. Yet, very few employers offer caregiver support benefits to help employees balance work and family. AgeWell is working to change that. Thanks to funding from the West End Home Foundation […]
- [St. Luke’s Community House Enriches Lives in Our Community](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/st-lukes-community-house-enriches-lives-in-our-community/): St. Luke’s Community House serves children, families and older adults from diverse backgrounds and puts them on a path for a better future. In our rich 100+ year history, St. Luke’s has continually responded to the needs of the community and has evolved into a place where residents from across Davidson County can access multiple services under one roof. We serve the basic and essential needs of people of all ages by providing access to food, childcare, case management and wraparound services. With the generous support of the West End Home Foundation, St. Luke’s is alleviating food insecurity and helping […]
- [St. Luke’s Community House](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/St.-Lukes-Community-House-Project-Spotlight.pdf)
- [The Nashville Food Project](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/The-Nashville-Food-Project-Project-Spotlight.revised.pdf)
- [January 2024 Grant Awards Announced](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/january-2024-grant-awards-announced/): The West End Home Foundation has announced grant awards in the amount of $2,117,950 for 2024.  Forty nonprofit agencies across middle Tennessee received grant awards. The Board of Directors expresses sincere appreciation to all of the organizations for the critical work they do and the tremendous impact they make serving older adults, their families, and their caregivers. The West End Home Foundation believes that our mission of enriching the lives of older adults through grantmaking, advocacy, and community collaboration is more important now than ever as older adults have become the fastest growing segment of the population. We are proud […]
- [Mayoral Forum Focused on Issues Important to Older Adults](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/mayoral-forum-focused-on-issues-important-to-older-adults/): The race for Nashville’s next mayor is well underway. In honor of Older Americans Month, AgeWell Middle Tennessee, FiftyForward, and The West End Home Foundation hosted a mayoral forum focused on issues that were important to older adults. The older adult population is the city’s fastest growing demographic and older adults tend to turn out to cast their ballots at a higher rate when compared to younger persons. Any hopeful candidate for mayor would be wise to understand the needs of the city’s older adult residents. Nashville is at a critical juncture and it is important to highlight the concerns […]
- [HEAR Nashville](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/HEAR-Nashille-Community-Impact-Article.pdf)
- [Creating a Multisector Plan for Aging in Tennessee Symposium Recap](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/creating-a-multisector-plan-for-aging-in-tennessee-symposium-recap/): Multisector Plans for Aging (MPAs) are transforming systems of care in many states across the country. Tennessee is one of ten states participating in a National Learning Collaborative to lay the groundwork for creating a Multisector Plan for Aging for our state. On Friday, May 12, 2023, The West End Home Foundation and AARP Tennessee hosted a Symposium bringing together a diverse group of community members to learn about the structure of these plans, their impact in other states, and the status of the multisector planning process in Tennessee. Currently 1.7 million Tennesseans are 60 and older. The 2022 Community […]
- [Vanderbilt University Medical Center](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Vanderbilt-University-Medical-Center-Community-Impact-Article.pdf)
- [Music for Seniors](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Music-For-Seniors.pdf)
- [January 2023 Grant Awards Announced](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/january-2023-grant-awards-announced/): The West End Home Foundation has announced grant awards in the amount of $1.9 million for 2023. Thirty-nine nonprofit organizations that serve older adults in Middle Tennessee will receive grant payments in early January. Each year, grant requests far surpass the amount of funding available. According to Dianne Oliver, Executive Director, “the service demands on agencies that deliver programs for older adults are increasing and will continue to increase as our population age 60+ grows. We are very fortunate in Middle Tennessee to have such a robust network of nonprofits committed to ensuring access to high quality, innovative and affordable […]
- [Internet Safety for Older Tennesseans](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/internet-safety-for-older-tennesseans/): The West End Home Foundation kicked off 2023 by co-hosting, with Nashville Public Television, a screening of NPT’s new Aging Matters documentary, “Exposing Cyber Threats”. The documentary, now airing on public television stations across the state, informs viewers about internet and cell phone threats and scams along with recommendations for ensuring safety and avoiding victimization. The event brought out nearly 80 nonprofit professionals who are part of the robust network of services that help older Tennesseans thrive. The documentary was funded by WEHF through the SeniorTrust grant program, “Reducing Social Isolation and Increasing Access to Essential Services Through Digital Literacy […]
- [Mid-Cumberland Human Resource Agency](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Mid-Cumberland-Human-Resource-Center.pdf)
- [Grants Awarded to Help Bridge Digital Divide for Older Tennesseans](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/grants-awarded-to-help-bridge-digital-divide-for-older-tennesseans/): West End Home Foundation Oversees Distribution of Funds From Court Case August 03, 2022 05:42 PM Eastern Daylight Time NASHVILLE, Tenn.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The West End Home Foundation (WEHF) is pleased to announce that more than $3.76 million in grants has been awarded to agencies throughout the state to help bridge the digital divide for Tennesseans age 60 and older. The digital literacy initiative, administered by the West End Home Foundation, is the last phase of the $40 million settlement handed down from Davidson County Chancery Court, Division III, Case No. 11-1548-III. Funds from this case, were designated by the Court to […]
- [Insight Counseling Centers](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Insight-Counseling-Centers.pdf)
- [Innovations in Aging Symposium](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/innovations-in-aging-symposium/): The last two years have seen incredible innovations and collaborations in the non-profit community as organizations have pivoted to serve the community amidst the constantly changing landscape.  The pandemic has touched all of us in one way or another and older adults have been particularly impacted.  The West End Home Foundation wanted to provide space to lift up the incredible work being done in our community and look toward the future as we continue the work of enriching the lives of older adults. On April 27, 2022 The West End Home Foundation was excited to host Innovations in Aging: A Symposium […]
- [FiftyForward](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/FiftyForward.pdf)
- [WEHF Honored with 2021 Sage Award](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wehf-honored-with-2021-sage-award/): The West End Home Foundation was honored by AgeWell Middle Tennessee in October as a recipient of the 2021 Sage Award. Sage Awards are given to older individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Middle Tennessee through a lifelong commitment to improving the quality of life in their communities and to organizations that have provided exemplary service to older adults. The Foundation was part of a distinguished group of honorees that included Ernie Bacon, Dr. James and Phyllis Hildreth, Charlie Strobel, John Hood, Tim Takacs and Matthew Walker Comprehensive Health Center. At the awards ceremony, Dianne Oliver, WEHF Executive Director, […]
- [Westminster Home Connection](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Westminster-Home-Connection.pdf)
- [WEHF Welcomes Our New Program Officer](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wehf-welcomes-our-new-program-officer/): We are excited to announce that Chandra Allen has joined the Foundation staff to fill our new Program Officer position. Chandra is a native Nashvillian. She brings a diversity of experience in both the nonprofit and commercial sectors. Chandra has served as Director of Education, Programs, and Connections at Scarritt-Bennett Center; Customer Experience Manager at The Egly Agency (Farmers Insurance); and Director of Children’s Ministry at Second Presbyterian Church. Chandra is passionate about connecting with people in an intentional way and being a collaborative partner alongside underserved communities and marginalized populations. Chandra earned a Masters of Divinity from Vanderbilt Divinity School […]
- [FiftyForward Exchange welcomes Dianne Oliver Executive Director of The West End Home Foundation](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/fiftyforward-exchange-welcomes-dianne-oliver-executive-director-of-the-west-end-home-foundation/): FiftyForward Patricia Hart Building Director Sharie Loik Goodman recently sat down with Dianne Oliver, executive director of The West End Home Foundation, to discuss the ways to reframe and combat ageism. While only two percent of national philanthropic dollars are dedicated to aging-specific programs, nearly 20 percent of the population is over 60 years old. Oliver explains how older adults are usually overlooked in society and their experience and wisdom undervalued, but those trends are changing. In 2019, AARP launched its reframing aging initiative. Many Nashville community organizations that serve older adults embraced this change and followed suit, including FifyForward […]
- [Nashville Public Television receives award for Aging Matters: Companionship & Intimacy](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/nashville-public-television-receives-award-for-aging-matters-companionship-intimacy/): Nashville Public Television received an award for Aging Matters: Companionship & Intimacy during the 35th Annual Midsouth Regional Emmy Awards held virtually on Saturday, Feb. 27, 2021. NPT won in the documentary/topical category, with statuettes going to Will Pedigo and Jason Code. Aging Matters: Companionship & Intimacy covers various kinds of relationships and intimacy issues, including romantic companionship and discussions of sexuality and sexual activity as we age. The documentary premiered on Dec. 18, 2019, and is available to stream at https://video.wnpt.org. The West End Home Foundation has been a major funder of the Aging Matters series since its inception in 2014. NPT has produced seventeen […]
- [Nashville Public Library Foundation](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Nashville-Public-Library-Foundation.pdf)
- [The West End Home Foundation Receives 2021 Sage Award](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/the-west-end-home-foundation-receives-2021-sage-award/): The West End Home Foundation has been named a recipient of the prestigious Sage Award from AgeWell Middle Tennessee. Since 1991, the Sage Awards have been presented to an outstanding group of recipients who have demonstrated longstanding service to their neighbors and their communities. The 2021 Sage Award recipients include seven organizations or mature individuals who have made a significant and positive impact on the lives of older adults in the region or who have demonstrated a lifelong commitment to improving the quality of life in their communities. Other 2021 recipients include Matthew Walker Comprehensive Health Center, Ernie Bacon, Dr. […]
- [2021 - 2024 Strategic Roadmap](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Strategic-Roadmap.pdf)
- [2021 Impact Report](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/2021-Impact-Report-1.pdf)
- [Older Adults are Valuable Contributors to a Vibrant Community](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Tennessean-Op-Ed-12_2020.pdf)
- [Nashville Property Tax Assistance for Older Adults](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/nashville-property-tax-assistance-for-older-adults/): Metro Nashville offers two property tax assistance programs for elderly and disabled low-income homeowners in Davidson County. The Property Tax Relief program provides reimbursement for all or part of the taxes for homeowners whose incomes did not exceed $29,860 in 2018. A Property Tax Freeze is available for homeowners whose incomes did not exceed $42,620. The deadline for applying for both programs is July 1. Call Metro Government for more information: 615-862-6330. Nashville Public Television produced a 2-minute spot that highlights this valuable program.
- [We Honor and Salute Older Tennesseans](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/we-honor-and-salute-older-tennesseans/)
- [Room In The Inn](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Room-In-The-Inn.pdf)
- [WEHF Awards $2 Million to Nonprofit Agencies in Middle Tennessee](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wehf-awards-2-million-to-nonprofit-agencies-in-middle-tennessee/): The West End Home Foundation held its 5th Annual Grant Awards Breakfast on Monday, January 6, 2020 at Westminster Presbyterian Church. Grant awards totaling $2 million were distributed to thirty-seven nonprofit agencies to support their work with older adults in Middle Tennessee. This annual gathering has become an opportunity for nonprofit professionals, all of whom share a commitment to enriching the lives of older adults, to come together and celebrate the profound impact they are having in our community. The West End Home Foundation is honored to have such incredible partners that work diligently everyday to bring the Foundation’s mission […]
- [Nations Ministry Center](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Nations-Ministry-Center.pdf)
- [Senior Ride Sumner Has Launched](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/senior-ride-sumner-has-launched/): Community Life Bridge, a senior service agency based in Hendersonville, TN has officially launched their new program, Senior Ride Sumner.  This new volunteer-assisted transportation program for older adults gave their first ride on Wednesday, July 10, 2019. Senior Ride Sumner is filling the gap in transportation services by pairing vetted and trained volunteer drivers with older adults who no longer drive themselves. Riders now have access to reliable transportation to medical appointments, hair appointments, errands and social engagements to enable them to remain active and engaged in their communities. The volunteer drivers and riders also have the opportunity for meaningful […]
- [Bethlehem Centers](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Bethlehem-Centers-of-Nashville-1.pdf)
- [WEHF Newsletter Volume 4](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wehf-newsletter-volume-4/): April 2019
- [Reframing Aging – A Workshop for Leaders and Advocates](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/reframing-aging-a-workshop-for-leaders-and-advocates/): Reframing Aging – A Workshop for Leaders and Advocates was held on March 8, 2019. This one-day seminar focused on how we can work together to change the conversation about older adults in middle Tennessee and influence public understanding to create a more just, inclusive and age-friendly society. The Reframing Aging approach, developed by the renowned FrameWorks Institute, is based on extensive social science research that explored public perceptions of growing older and the profound impact of messaging on those perceptions. Several communities across the country have launched Reframing Aging initiatives and two states (Maine and Colorado) are implementing statewide […]
- [$2 Million Awarded to Nonprofit Agencies in Middle Tennessee](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/2-million-awarded-to-nonprofit-agencies-in-middle-tennessee/): The West End Home Foundation held its 4th Annual Grant Awards Breakfast on Monday, January 7, 2019 at Westminster Presbyterian Church. Grant awards totaling $2 million were distributed to thirty-four nonprofit agencies to support their work with older adults in Middle Tennessee. These agencies bring the Foundation’s mission to life – enriching the lives of older adults – by providing a comprehensive and compassionate system of care to support people as they age. The West End Home Foundation is proud to be a funding partner with these incredible organizations that impact lives and strengthen our communities. Services supported with WEHF funding include advocacy, enrichment […]
- [Senior Ride Nashville](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Senior-Ride-Nashille.pdf)
- [WEHF Newsletter Volume 3 November 2018](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wehf-newsletter-volume-3-november-2018/)
- [Historical marker dedicated in honor of the Old Woman’s Home](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/historical-marker-dedicated-in-honor-of-the-old-womans-home/): The West End Home Foundation recently was pleased to announce the dedication of a historical marker to pay tribute to the Old Woman’s Home, a Nashville institution founded in 1891. A dedication ceremony took place on Monday, November 5. The program included remarks made by Mayor Briley, Jim Forkum, Chairperson of the Historical Commission, and the daughter of a former resident of the home. The Old Woman’s Home was founded in 1891 for the “care of aged and helpless women who were unable to work and who were without means of support”. In 1909, the “inmates” (as the residents were […]
- [Tennessee Justice Center](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Tennessee-Justice-Center.pdf)
- [Interfaith Dental](http://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Interfaith-Dental-Clinic.pdf)
- [NPT Reports: Aging Matters “Loneliness and Isolation”](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/npt-reports-aging-matters-loneliness-and-isolation/): NPT has released a new documentary in the Aging Matters series entitled “Loneliness and Isolation”. It addresses the complicated relationship between loneliness and isolation among older adults, the negative impact that loneliness and/or isolation can have on health and longevity, and strategies to reduce or prevent their occurance.  The program premiered on NPT on May 31, 2018. It will continue to air periodically and is also available to view on their website – www.wnpt.org. The West End Home Foundation is proud to support NPT Reports: Aging Matters. The series began in 2013 and has produced thirteen documentaries – many have […]
- [WEHF Newsletter Volume 2 March 2018](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wehf-newsletter-volume-2-march-2018/)
- [WEHF Awards $1.68 million to Middle Tennessee Agencies](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wehf-awards-1-68-million-to-middle-tennessee-agencies/): The West End Home Foundation presented checks totaling $1.68 million to thirty-three nonprofit agencies at their annual grant awards breakfast on January 5, 2018.  These agencies provide critically needed services to older adults in the Middle Tennessee region and all have achieved a high standard of excellence with measurable impact. The lives of older adults are enriched everyday through the programs and services that benefit from Foundation support. The $1.68 million were distributed across agencies and impact areas as follows: Advocacy:  $304,000.00 Council on Aging of Middle Tennessee Mid-Cumberland Human Resource Agency Nashville Public Television Tennessee Justice Center Vanderbilt University […]
- [“A Heartfelt Mission”](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/a-heartfelt-mission/): The West End Home Foundation released a book on November 15, 2017 documenting its 125-year history of serving older adults in Middle Tennessee. A Heartfelt Mission – The West End Home Foundation 1891-2016, by Mary Ellen Pethel, is a story that began in the late 1800s when M.H. Howard left a bequest to establish a home for “aged and helpless women who were without means of support”.  The Old Woman’s Home, later renamed The West End Home for Ladies, was founded in 1891. For over 120 years, generations of prominent Nashville women served on the Governing and Auxiliary Boards to ensure that elderly […]
- [Congratulations Salute to Excellence Winners!](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/congratulations-salute-to-excellence-winners/): Each year the Center for Nonprofit Management honors nonprofit agencies in Middle Tennessee for exemplary service. This year’s Salute Awards Ceremony took place on October 2, 2017 at the Omni Hotel. WEHF congratulates all of the winners and gives a special recognition to the agencies that are currently receiving WEHF grant funds: The Nashville Food Project won The Frist Foundation Revenue Development Award for its new contract meals program that provides mission-aligned nonprofits with ongoing high quality meals. The Tennessee Justice Center won the Frist Foundation Innovation in Action Award for its AskJane! program that makes navigating the maze of public health benefits easier. […]
- [WEHF Newsletter Volume 1 August 2017](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wehf-newsletter-volume-1-august-2017/)
- [91 year-old is the new face of The Nations](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/91-year-old-is-the-new-face-of-the-nations/): Australian street artist Guido van Helten has converted an old brick grain silo into a piece of art depicting The Nations neighborhood. As he researched the project, he visited St. Luke’s Community House and found his inspiration for the mural within their walls. Lee Estes, a 91 year-old native Nashvillian has lived his entire life in The Nations. A lifelong friend and client of St. Luke’s, Mr. Estes has spent much of his life volunteering at the agency, helping to enrich the lives of children and families. In the 160-foot tall mural, Mr. Estes represents the old Nashville paving the way for the new. […]
- [NPT Aging Matters: Aging & the Workplace](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/npt-aging-matters-aging-the-workplace/): A new documentary in the NPT Aging Matters series entitled “Aging & the Workplace” will premier on Thursday, April 27 at 8:00 pm. The West End Home Foundation provided funding for the production of this and other award winning NPT documentaries that address critical issues impacting our aging population. “The aging of our population will impact every aspect of our lives. In this edition of Aging Matters, we will look at one – work, and explore what effects an aging demographic will have on our lives on the job. What can we expect in the coming decades?  How will the […]
- [WEHF Distributes $1.28 Million to Nonprofit Agencies](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wehf-distributes-1-28-million-to-nonprofit-agencies/): The West End Home Foundation has distributed $1.28 million to twenty-four nonprofit agencies serving middle TN senior adults. The awards were presented at a breakfast on January 5, 2017. The grant funds will support the delivery of needed services in 2017 to seniors in Davidson and its six contiguous counties. Program areas receiving support include advocacy, food, health, housing, transportation and other enrichment programs. Margaret Smith, WEHF Vice President and Grant Committee Chair reported that the Foundation received requests totaling nearly $4 million. “The agencies in the room today rose to the top during the grants process and are honored […]
- [WEHF Celebrates 125 years of Community Service](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/wehf-celebrates-125-years-of-community-service/): The West End Home Foundation celebrated its 125th anniversary on October 13, 2016. The Old Woman’s Home, later to be renamed The West End Home for Ladies was founded in 1891 to provide residential care to elderly women. (A complete history of the organization is on the website.) A brief presentation highlighted the Foundation’s steadfast commitment to enhancing the lives of senior adults through strategic grant making and raising awareness of senior needs in the community. The event was held at the home of Drs. Arie and Michael Nettles and was attended by current and past Board of Directors and […]
- [Alive Hospice Breaks Ground in Murfreesboro](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/alive-hospice-breaks-ground-in-murfreesboro/): Alive Hospice held a ground breaking ceremony on August 17, 2016 at the site of the planned Murfreesboro Residence. The West End Home Foundation contributed to the capital campaign for this vitally needed expansion to better serve Murfreesboro and surrounding communities. Sallie King Norton, WEHF Board member put on a hard hat and grabbed a shovel to help break ground for the facility. The 10-bed facility is expected to open in May, 2017.
- [The West End Home Foundation Awards $1.683 Million to Nonprofits Serving Seniors](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/the-west-end-home-foundation-awards-1-683-million-to-nonprofits-serving-seniors/): The West End Home Foundation Board of Directors has announced its 2016 grant awards. The mission of the Foundation is to improve the quality of life of seniors through support of nonprofit organizations that provide advocacy, food, housing, health and transportation services to seniors. Grant awards totaling $1,683,000 have been distributed to twenty-eight agencies serving Davidson and the five contiguous counties. The West End Home Foundation Grant Committee Chair, Gray Thornburg commends each of the organizations for their exemplary work in support of senior adults. The organizations and projects awarded grants in 2016 are: Alive Hospice – Capital funds for a […]
- [The West End Home Foundation Hires First Executive Director](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/the-west-end-home-foundation-hires-first-executive-director/): The West End Home Foundation Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Dianne Oliver has been named the organization’s first Executive Director. The West End Home Foundation was founded in 1891 to provide housing and care to older women in Nashville and has transitioned into a private charitable foundation that provides financial support to nonprofit organizations serving senior adults. According to Kim Hardin, President of The West End Home Foundation Board of Directors, “Our Foundation has developed to the point that we need the leadership of an experienced professional. We are excited that Dianne has agreed to share her […]

## Pages

- [Terms of Use](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/terms-of-use/): Terms of Use Effective Date: November 10th, 2025 1. Acceptance of Terms Welcome to the website of West End Home Foundation (“we,” “us,” “our”). By accessing or using westendhomefoundation.org (the “Site”), you agree to be bound by these Terms of Use (“Terms”) and our Privacy Policy (collectively, the “Agreements”). If you do not agree to these Terms, please do not use the Site. We may update or modify these Terms from time to time without prior notice. The latest version will be posted on this page, and your continued use of the Site after any changes are made constitutes your […]
- [Privacy Policy](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/privacy-policy/): Privacy Policy Effective Date: November 10th, 2025 1. IntroductionWest End Home Foundation (“we”, “us”, “our”) is committed to protecting the privacy of visitors and users of our website located at westendhomefoundation.org (the “Site”), as well as individuals who interact with us in other channels (e.g., email, donation forms, event registration). This Privacy Policy describes the types of information we may collect, how we use and protect that information, with whom we may share it, and your rights with respect to that information. 2. Information We CollectWe may collect information from you in the following ways: Information you provide to us […]
- [Residents 1980 – 1989](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/residents-1980-1989/): Residents 1980 – 1989 The West End Home For Ladies at Vanderbilt Place Arnold, Virginia May Virginia May ArnoldOctober 5, 1889 – July 31, 1980Marital Status: Never Married Place of Birth: Maysville, MissouriParents: Joseph Walter Arnold and Ida May Finnell ArnoldSpouse: Admitted to The Old Woman’s Home December 14, 1964Resided in The Old Woman’s Home at 2811 West End AvenueBurial Site: Georgetown Cemetery in Georgetown, Kentucky Family References Siblings: Harry B. Arnold of Bethel, Ohio and Nellie S. Arnold. Biography Miss Arnold was employed by the Baptist Orphan’s Home. She was a member of the Belmont Heights Baptist Church and […]
- [Residents 1990 – 1999](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/residents-1990-1999/): Residents 1990 – 1999 The West End Home For Ladies at Vanderbilt Place Anderson, Marion Foster Marion Foster AndersonApril 27, 1905 – In December 1996Marital Status: Never Married Place of Birth:Parents:Spouse: Admitted to The West End Home For Ladies June 11, 1985Resided in The West End Home For Ladies at 2818 Vanderbilt PlaceBurial Site: Polk Memorial Gardens in Columbia, Tennessee Biography Miss Anderson graduated from Hay Long High School in Mount Pleasant, Tennessee in 1923 after being voted Class Poet.  Miss Anderson was a retired secretary for Metro Public Schools and a member of Westminister Presbyterian Church. Anderson, Mildred Gatlin Mildred […]
- [Residents 1970 – 1979](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/residents-1970-1979/): Residents 1970 – 1979 The Old Woman’s Home at West End Avenue Allen, Myrtle Mae Hill Myrtle Mae Hill AllenMay 11, 1894 – May 4, 1974Marital Status: Married Place of Birth: Franklin, TennesseeParents: James Clay Hill and Ida Wiles HillSpouse: Harry E. Allen Resided in The Old Woman’s Home at 2811 West End AvenueAdmitted to The Old Woman’s Home January 23, 1971Burial Site: Woodlawn Memorial Park Family References Children: Jack Douglas Whitlow of Nashville, James Henry Allen of Old Hickory, Tennessee, and Reverend Harry E. Allen, Jr. of Zachary, Louisiana. Biography Her husband passed away on February 11, 1953. Mrs. […]
- [Residents 2000 – 2013](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/residents-2000-2013/): Residents 2000 – 2013 2009 – 2013: Burton Court West at The Blakeford at Green Hills 2000 – 2009: The West End Home For Ladies at Vanderbilt Place Allen, Mary Elizabeth Miss Mary Elizabeth Allen,The West End Home For Ladies,2818 Vanderbilt Place Mary Elizabeth AllenJuly 15, 1911 – June 18, 2004Marital Status: Never Married Place of Birth: Nashville, TennesseeParents: Benjamin Hamblin Allen and Bessie Ehrdard AllenSpouse: N/A Admitted to The West End Home For Ladies, May 3, 1993Resided in The West End Home For Ladies at 2818 Vanderbilt PlaceBurial Site: Mount Olivet Cemetery Family References Cousin: Cornelia Gist Chitwood of […]
- [Residents 1920 – 1929](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/residents-1920-1929/): Residents 1920 – 1929 The Old Woman’s Home at West End Avenue Aaron, Sarah Sarah Aaron November 21, Unknown – October 27, 1927 Marital Status: Married Place of Birth: Parents: Spouse: Admitted to The Old Woman’s Home December 14, 1925 Reside in The Old Woman’s Home at 2811 West End Avenue Burial Site: Mount Olivet Cemetery in Nashville, Tennessee Adams, Jennie Jennie AdamsUnknown – May, 1926Marital Status: Married Place of Birth:Parents:Spouse: Brown Adams Admitted to The Old Woman’s HomeResided in The Old Woman’s Home at 2811 West End AvenueBurial Site: Akin, Fannie Fannie AkinUnknown – January 21, 1926Marital Status: Married […]
- [Residents 1910 – 1919](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/residents-1910-1919/): Residents 1910 – 1919 The Old Woman’s Home at West End Avenue Bowles, Mary Mary BowlesUnknown DOB – Unknown DODMarital Status: Married Place of Birth:Parents:Spouse: Admitted to The Old Woman’s Home in 1919Resided in The Old Woman’s Home at 2811 West End AvenueBurial Site: Bradford, Martha Martha BradfordAugust 1832 – February 16, 1917Marital Status: Never Married Place of Birth:Parents:Spouse: Admitted to The Old Woman’s Home October 12, 1891Resided in The Old Woman’s Home at 136 North Cherry Street, later at 2811 West End AvenueBurial Site: Family References Cousin: Sara Bradford Saunders Biography Miss Bradford resided in Davidson County, Tennessee prior […]
- [Residents 1900 – 1909](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/residents-1900-1909/): Residents 1900 – 1909 1909, The Old Woman’s Home at West End Avenue 1900 – 1909, The Old Woman’s Home at North Cherry Street Arthur, Nancy M. Nancy M. ArthurNovember 14, 1822 – March 6, 1902Marital Status: Married Place of Birth:Parents:Spouse: Admitted to The Old Woman’s Home October 9, 1893Resided in The Old Woman’s Home at 136 North Cherry StreetBurial Site: Biography Prior to her admission to The Old Woman’s Home, Mrs. Arthur resided in Nashville, Tennessee. Bateman, Martha H. Martha H. BatemanFebruary 4, 1828 – January 1904Marital Status: Married Place of Birth:Parents:Spouse: Admitted to The Old Woman’s Home April […]
- [Residents 1930 – 1939](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/residents-1930-1939/): Residents 1930 – 1939 The Old Woman’s Home at West End Avenue Baucom, Annie Annie BaucomNovember 11, 1843 – November 11, 1935Marital Status: Never Married Place of Birth: Pulaski, TennesseeParents: Cader Baucom, possibly of North Carolina and Cynthia Ann Busby Baucom of Lawrenceburg, TennesseeSpouse: Admitted to The Old Woman’s Home January 21, 1933Resided in The Old Woman’s Home at 2811 West End AvenueBurial Site: Mount Olivet Cemetery in Nashville, Tennessee Family References Siblings: Cynith Baucom and Angie Quinn Niece: Florence Hooper Cousin: Mrs. S.E. Cooper Biography Miss Baucom was a member of Eleventh Street Presbyterian Church. Bayless, Della Francis Buford […]
- [Residents 1887 – 1899](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/residents-1887-1899/): Residents 1887 – 1899 1891 – 1899, The Old Woman’s Home at North Cherry Street 1889 – 1891, The Nashville Relief Society and The Old Woman’s Home at North Cherry Street 1887 – 1889, The Nashville Relief Society and The Old Woman’s Home at the office of the Nashville Relief Society Bosworth, Mary A. Mary A. BosworthAugust 4, 1826 – September 4, 1892Marital Status: Married Place of Birth:Parents:Spouse: Admitted to The Old Woman’s Home on January 19, 1892Resided in The Old Woman’s Home at 136 North Cherry StreetBurial Site: Mount Olivet Cemetery Burney, Annie C. Annie C. BurneyMay 28, 1819 […]
- [Residents 1940 – 1949](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/residents-1940-1949/): Residents 1940 – 1949 The Old Woman’s Home at West End Avenue Adams, Amanda Sumner Amanda Sumner AdamsOctober 31, 1851 – November 30, 1943Marital Status: Married Place of Birth: White’s Creek, TennesseeParents: E.B. and Georgianna Everett SumnerSpouse: John Quincy Adams Resided in The Old Woman’s Home at 2811 West End AvenueAdmitted to The Old Woman’s Home March 20, 1916Burial Site: Mount Olivet Cemetery in Nashville, Tennessee Family References Brother/Sister in-law: Mr. and Mrs. A.A. Adams of Lebanon, Tennessee Cousins: Mrs. Frank Nullelly and Mrs. William Beck both of Nashville, Tennessee Biography Mrs. Adams’ husband passed away on February 17, 1916. […]
- [Residents 1950-1959](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/residents-1950-1959/): Residents 1950 – 1959 The Old Woman’s Home at West End Avenue Allen, Lenah Petri Lenah Petri AllenNovember 24, 1867 – September 12, 1951Marital Status: Married Place of Birth: Nashville, TennesseeParents: Pastor Ernest Petri and Mrs. Zordae Amanda Pate PetriSpouse: E. Mark Allen Resided in The Old Woman’s Home at 2811 West End AvenueAdmitted to The Old Woman’s Home September 21, 1948Burial Site: Mount Olivet Cemetery in Nashville, Tennessee Family References Children: George Newton Allen of Knoxville, Tennessee and E.M. Allen, Jr. of Nashville, Tennessee Grandchildren: Mrs. Lumpkin Allen of Nashville, Tennessee, Mrs. Raymond U. Sharer of Los Angeles, California, […]
- [Residents 1960-1969](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/residents-1960-1969/): Residents 1960 – 1969 The Old Woman’s Home at West End Avenue Armstrong, Mary Ella Rothrock Mary Ella Rothrock ArmstrongDecember 2, 1867 – May 16, 1964Marital Status: Married Place of Birth: Mooresville, TennesseeParents: Dr. Robert Gordon Rothrock and Mrs. Harriet Holt RothrockSpouse: John V. Armstrong Resided in The Old Woman’s Home at 2811 West End AvenueAdmitted to The Old Woman’s Home September 29, 1947Burial Site: Mount Olivet Cemetery in Nashville, Tennessee Family References Sibling: Edgar Rothrock Cousins: Mrs. Robert H. Miller of Memphis, Tennessee; Mrs. Joe L. Moore of Bessamer, Alabama; Mary U. Rothrock of Knoxville, Tennessee; and Mrs. John […]
- [Grant Program](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/grant-program/): Grant program The West End Home Foundation is dedicated to helping support and sustain a comprehensive system of care for older adults in Middle Tennessee. The Foundation conducts an annual grants process during which time we accept applications from organizations providing programs that seek to enhance the quality of life for older adults. The broad spectrum of programs that benefit each year address one of our key impact areas: Advocacy Raising awareness of issues impacting older adults, their families and caregivers, advocating for policies and services that promote successful aging and advocating on behalf of older adults to ensure full […]
- [About the Foundation](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/about-the-foundation/): About the foundation At the West End Home Foundation, we believe aging should be celebrated, not feared. Our work is driven by the conviction that every older adult deserves to live with dignity, purpose, and connection. Our Mission Advancing aging with dignity and strengthening communities through strategic grantmaking, policy advocacy, and cross-sector collaboration. Our Vision We envision a world where all older adults are valued, have opportunities to be engaged in their communities in meaningful ways, and have access to high-quality care and services that promote successful aging.How We Do Our Work Fund WEHF provides grant funding to mission-aligned organizations […]
- [Community Impact](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/community-impact/): Community impact The West End Home Foundation invests in nonprofits that enrich the lives of older adults, turning support into meaningful outcomes that strengthen communities for all. 2025 Funding by Impact Area In 2025, the Foundation distributed $1,943,332.00 to forty-one different nonprofit agencies in Middle Tennessee. The nonprofit agencies and projects receiving funding are detailed below. Grant Awards Distributed in 2025 Advocacy Enrichment and Socialization Food and Nutrition Healthcare Housing Transportation Wellness and Supportive Care Special Projects AgeWell Middle Tennessee Funding will support AgeWell Middle Tennessee’s core services with emphasis placed on growth of AgeWell’s impact as a convener, catalyst […]
- [Tools & Resources](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/tools-resources/): Tools and resources We help partners reframe how we see and communicate the value of older adults. These resources provide tools to confront ageism and strengthen communities for all ages. Reframing Aging and Confronting Ageism
- [Contact Us](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/contact-us/): Contact us 109 Kenner Avenue, Suite 202, Nashville, TN 37205 615-383-1395 Dianne Oliver, Executive Director dianne.oliver@westendhomefoundation.org Chandra Allen, Program Director chandra.allen@westendhomefoundation.org Cindy Dickinson, Administration & Technology Manager cindy.dickinson@westendhomefoundation.org
- [Foundation News](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/news/): Foundation news Stay connected with the latest stories, updates, and milestones from the West End Home Foundation. Discover how our programs and partners are making a difference every day.
- [Project Spotlight](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/project-spotlight/): Project spotlight The West End Home Foundation carries out its mission through a strong network of partner agencies, creating meaningful change for older adults, their families, and our community. Together, we see compassion in action and lives transformed every day.
- [History](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/history/): Our history For more than 130 years, The West End Home Foundation has cared for Nashville’s older adults. Founded to provide dignity and stability to aging women, it has endured through changing times, always grounded in compassion, perseverance, and community. The Foundation’s history began in 1889, when Nashville leaders—moved by the struggles of widows left destitute after the Civil War—established The Old Woman’s Home. With support from philanthropists like Mr. M.H. Howard and Mrs. James K. Polk, the Home opened its doors and quickly became a place of refuge. Over the years, its facilities expanded, from the Victorian-style home on […]
- [Past Residents](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/past-residents/): Past residents The West End Home Foundation operated a residential community from 1891 to 2013, providing direct services to more than 500 women. Spinsters and widows, some wealthy and others dispossessed — all shared the common need for assisted living. Listed by final decade of residence 2000 – 2013 1990 – 1999 1980 – 1989 1970 – 1979 1960 – 1969 1950 – 1959 1940 – 1949 1930 – 1939 1920 – 1929 1910 – 1919 1900 – 1909 1887 – 1899
- [Home](https://westendhomefou.wpenginepowered.com/): Advancing aging with dignity and strengthening communities. Supporting organizations that serve older adults in Middle Tennessee through grants, partnership, and a commitment to lasting change. OUR IMPACT AT A GLANCE $27M+ awarded since 2002 40+ organizations funded annually 130+ years of legacy COMING SOON: 2025 – 2030 Strategic Framework Building a Future Where Everyone Can Age Well We strengthen communities and policies that help older adults thrive. The West End Home Foundation fosters communities where older adults are valued, connected, and supported. Through grantmaking, advocacy, and cross-sector collaboration, we work to promote successful aging across Middle Tennessee. About the Foundation […]


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