Cypress Palms is the second-place winner of FHCA’s 2025 LTC Photo Contest, receiving 387 votes in the Facebook public voting contest. The awarded photo, “Foam-Filled Fun,” was captured by Melissa Wojewnik, the Executive Director of Cypress Palms.
Melissa, who began her career in long term care in 2007, has been with Cypress Palms since April of 2022. She shared that she has enjoyed photography as a creative outlet and has utilized her skills to aid in her career goals of community-building and active engagement to go beyond the expected.
“This particular photo means a lot to me because it captures an energy shift — the resident featured was initially hesitant to join in,” Melissa shared. She noted that Cypress Palms is an intergenerational community, with an on-site children’s daycare and preschool that allows for daily connections between their youngest and oldest residents. “As soon as he saw the kids laughing and playing, everything changed. He smiled, said, ’Can’t let the kids have all the fun!’ and let his inner child shine. That’s the magic of intergenerational programming and meaningful engagement.”
As the second-place winner, Cypress Palms received a $300 contribution from FHCA to sponsor a social event for residents and staff. Melissa Wojewnik will also receive a $50 gift card for her submission.
FHCA’s Long Term Care Photo Contest, sponsored by Incite Strategic Partners, Inc., is open annually to those who live, work, or volunteer in an FHCA member care center or work with an FHCA business partner. More than 200 photos were entered into this year’s contest, which focused on the theme “Inspiring Moments” to recognize and reflect upon the acts of thoughtfulness and kindness happening in long term care centers across the state.
The winning photos were announced during National Skilled Nursing Care Week (May 11-17, 2025) on FHCA’s Facebook page and will be displayed during FHCA’s Nurse Leadership Program, as well as the 2025 Annual Conference & Trade Show in Orlando. To read more about this year’s Long Term Care Photo Contest, click here.
