Aviva Senior Living Launches Larry Greenspon Community Commons Concert Series

Unveiling New Opportunities at Aviva Senior Living

On January 7, 2026, Aviva Senior Living in Sarasota proudly launched the newly named Larry Greenspon Community Commons. This event marked the beginning of a significant refurbishment initiative for the retirement community, aimed at enhancing the living experience for residents. The Commons, now a central gathering hub for those in Kobernick Independent Living, features the newly named Greenspon Bistro and Greenspon Dining Room, recognizing Larry Greenspon’s immense contributions to the community.

Transformative Renovations on the Horizon

The refurbished Commons embodies a broader renovation plan that will unfold throughout 2026, focusing on revitalizing key areas of Aviva’s expansive 27-acre campus. Greenspon's philanthropy has played a vital role in these enhancements, epitomizing the spirit of giving back to the community. As Jay Solomon, a representative of Aviva, states, “The generous support of donors like Larry and the Kretzmer family goes beyond a good deed or mitzvah; their kindness will propel Aviva into a brighter future.”

Celebrating Community Through Music

The inauguration of the Commons coincided with the first performance of the Ernie Kretzmer Concert Series. This yearlong series is designed to bring free concerts to residents and the wider Sarasota community, thus fostering connections through music. It honors the late Ernie Kretzmer, a staunch advocate for performing arts in the area. His family, Peter Kretzmer and Wendy Manto, announced that they would underwrite the series to pay tribute to their father's legacy.

Spotlight on Talented Local Artists

The opening concert featured local talent Marco Jiminez, who began performing at Aviva at just six years old. Now a talented student at Juilliard, Jiminez delighted attendees by playing on the same Steinway grand piano under the mentorship of his childhood teacher, the late Mona MacPhail. This moment was a heartwarming reminder of the intergenerational bonds that the concert series aims to foster.

Aviva’s Commitment to Quality Living

Founded in 1993, Aviva Senior Life stands as the only non-profit rental senior living community in Sarasota offering diverse lifestyle options, including Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Skilled Nursing. Aviva not only prioritizes luxury amenities and gourmet dining but also emphasizes community bonding through various programs and initiatives. It was recognized as the 2023 Best Retirement Community by SRQ Magazine.

With a mission to provide engaging social activities and a thriving living environment, Aviva continues to draw support from generous community members. Philanthropy is central to its operations and helps fulfill the organization’s mission of enhancing the living experience for seniors.

Importance of Community Contributions

The newly renovated spaces serve as a testament to the impact individuals like Larry Greenspon and the Kretzmer family have on local communities. Their examples highlight how philanthropy and dedication to service can significantly improve the quality of life for seniors. As the concert series and the new Commons evolve, they will undoubtedly foster deeper connections and joyous experiences for years to come.

Call to Action: Engage with Your Community!

If you are passionate about contributing to the well-being of seniors in your area, consider supporting organizations like Aviva Senior Living. Donating time, resources, or skills can profoundly affect the lives of those in lesser circumstances. Join Aviva in its journey to cultivate a nurturing and vibrant community for all its residents!