The strongest communities are built by people who show up — with their time, their compassion, and their generosity. Michele Musto is one of those people.

Michele, Volunteer Services Coordinator and External Marketing Lead at The Shores in Ocean City, was recently honored with the 2026 Excellence in Community Service Award from LeadingAge New Jersey & Delaware, recognizing her outstanding commitment to building connections, supporting caregivers, and strengthening community partnerships.

Beyond her professional role, Michele is also a dedicated supporter and advocate of the UMC Foundation, and she speaks about giving in deeply personal terms.

“I think supporting UMC Foundation is important because to me it’s an act of kindness,” Michele shared in a recent message about why she gives. “It’s a way of saying that our residents matter and that we take care of one another. I’m proud to give my time and my support because I’ve seen firsthand the difference that it makes in people’s lives. That’s what community looks like.”

Michele’s award recognizes years of bridge-building across schools, nonprofits, faith communities, and caregiver networks. Her perspective as a UMC Foundation supporter highlights something equally important: meaningful impact is made possible not only through service, but through generosity.

We are grateful for advocates like Michele who model what it means to support the mission — not only through personal generosity, but by championing the work, sharing its impact, and helping others see how they can be part of it.