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Keeping the Magic Alive
At age 100, Dorothy Young is many things — an artist, a published author, a professional ballroom
dancer, and the only living assistant to Harry Houdini. But most notably, and possibly most importantly,
Dorothy is a generous philanthropist.
A Legacy of Giving to Jersey Shore
Those who have visited Jersey Shore
University Medical Center may recognize
her name. The Dorothy Young Chapel was
her gift to Jersey Shore in honor
of her beloved parents.
It’s intended to provide
welcome refuge and
comfort to all in
need. "It warms my
heart to know that
my parents are looking
down on me,"
Dorothy notes.
However, the
chapel is just one
of many gifts she has
given to the community
and to Jersey Shore
University Medical Center.
Through the years, Dorothy has also volunteered
her time to Jersey Shore, serving on
its Board of Trustees. As a result, she has
an inside understanding of the "magic"
of medicine and the power of prayers
for healing. She was also among the first
donors to participate in the Jersey Shore
University Medical Center Pooled Income
Fund, which has now been replaced by
the Charitable Gift Annuity Program. These
programs provide income at a high percentage
rate to donors throughout their
life, while also giving a donation to the
Meridian hospital of their choice.
Living a Full Life
At 100 years old, Dorothy is surprised that
she has survived her brother and sisters
— she describes herself as the frail one in
the family. Dorothy remarks, "Nothing in
my career or family life was planned,
but God led me at every turn
and has made me happy."
The chapel is a fitting
gift from Dorothy, who is
a longtime resident of
Ocean Grove and the
daughter of a minister. In
fact, her family has served
the Methodist Church for
six generations. She credits
her father for her philanthropic
spirit. "People should
help each other as much as
possible," states Dorothy.
Aside from her charitable gifts,
Dorothy keeps herself happy by enjoying
time with her family, especially her
grandchildren and great-grandchildren,
and playing backgammon with her friends.
She is also an avid consumer of chocolates,
candies, and ice cream, and works
off these decadent pleasures by maintaining
a regular exercise routine and dancing.
For fun, she also visits Monmouth Park
Race Track once a year — and sometimes
her bets even win. "My life is so full that
I sometimes wonder why God is keeping
me here so long," says Dorothy. "I’ve done
it all."
 – Nancy Barone
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