May 28, 2026 —At Collington, a Kendal Affiliate, inspiring chapters continue to be written later in life. And Collington is a community that shines as an example of this year’s Annual Report them which highlights how communities are distinct in place, yet deeply united by values, anchored by principles such as equality, peace, and community.
Henry Thomas, a resident at Collington- A Kendal Affiliate, beautifully reflects this theme and is just one of the many remarkable individuals who continue to shape their legacy, share their wisdom, and uplift everyone around them.
Raised in New Orleans during the dawn of the civil rights movement, Henry witnessed history unfolding in his own neighborhood. This early exposure ignited a lifelong passion for truth, equity, and social justice. As a student at UCLA in the 1960s, he became a courageous voice in the anti-war and free-speech movements. His dedication to advocacy only grew from there, leading him to serve as Chief of Staff for the civil rights group FIGHT Organization in New York, and later as a dedicated university educator connecting students with communities worldwide.
At Collington, Henry’s story is far from finished. He continues to be a guiding light, deeply involved in community life and lifelong learning. Guided by his philosophy of Liberation Theology, which emphasizes empowering the least privileged among us and fostering mutual understanding, Henry works with a year-round committee for Collington’s Black History Month programming. With his help, the community explored the profound theme of African Americans and Labor, engaging residents and employee teams in transformative dialogues about resilience, history, and equity.
Henry often reminds us of a powerful truth: “Our greatest responsibility is to be wise, good ancestors.”
This is the essence of the Kendal experience at Collington, bringing together places, programs, and meaningful support that empower individuals to continue their life’s work and foster deep connections. Henry’s ongoing research, his passion for education, and his compassionate leadership demonstrate that aging is a vibrant opportunity for continued growth and community impact.
When we say we are United by Values, it is residents like Henry who bring these words to life. By bringing vast experiences and empathetic hearts to Collington, residents’ direct involvement in shaping life at Collington enriches the entire community, proving a shared commitment to one another.