Bluestem Communities’ volunteers were the guests of honor at the 2017 appreciation luncheons hosted on April 17th and April 18th at Water’s Edge Hesston. In 2016, Bluestem volunteers put in over 28,000 hours of work.
“Our volunteers display such heart and passion for the mission of Bluestem. We wanted to honor them for their selfless dedication to serving our residents and communities,” said Michelle Rider, community outreach coordinator.
At the Kidron Bethel Village luncheon, awards were presented to three volunteers who have shown outstanding dedication to the core values of Bluestem Communities. Stanley Smucker was given the Making a Difference Award for his organization of several resident activities for the past eight years. The Compassion Award was presented to Mary Sue Voth, whose energy and enthusiasm creates a warm environment as she gives manicures to residents of assisted living. Velma Busenitz was chosen to receive the Servanthood Award. Velma and her grandchildren help with various activities at Kidron by playing music, serving food, and visiting with residents.
Awards were also presented to several Schowalter Villa volunteers. The Making a Difference Award was given to Trish Brenneman, who serves as President of the Villa Partners committee and has helped the committee grow, build momentum, and implement creative ideas. Gerry Reimer was presented with the Compassion Award for her work in creating flower arrangements for the Villa Life Center and serving root beer floats in assisted living—all while developing meaningful relationships with residents. A group of volunteers were chosen for the Teamwork Award. Peter Hartman, Grace Brunner, Karl Beesley and Merle and Marcella Unruh were given this award for their dynamic work in carrying out volunteer chaplain duties at Schowalter Villa.
More than 750 people live at Bluestem’s Life Plan Communities in North Newton and Hesston. Numerous residents are active in the on-campus volunteer program, as well as serving in the greater community.
