Fall 2011 - Presbyterian Homes & Services

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A Community Treasure Croixdale celebrates its 50th anniversary. Croixdale is nestled in the heart of Bayport, MN, a town that sits below hills and bluffs carved out by the St. Croix River eons ago. The town’s inhabitants, many born in Bayport and those who wandered in and stayed, make up a population of 3,300. Most people are acquainted in some way and there is always a caring hand outstretched to help. Summer picnics at the Andersen Home, 1962 and 2011. This idyllic setting, however, does not stop the clock on growing old. Gone are the days when three generations lived together in rambling farmhouses. Some older adults realize that they no longer want or can sustain the responsibility of maintaining a home on their own. Outliving their spouse and friends can bring loneliness and isolation; even put their health and safety at risk. Over five decades ago, Katherine “Kitty” Andersen and the St. Croix Valley Association of University Women were concerned for the well-being of seniors and the need for affordable senior housing in the St. Croix Valley. They created the Committee on Seniors in 1952 to identify the concerns of an aging population; health, safety, companionship, feeling needed, contributing to their community and maintaining a spiritual life. 14 FALL 2011
Bayport advanced their initiative in 1956 by incorporating the committee as the Washington County Association for Senior Citizens. The Association researched Wisconsin and Minnesota retirement communities, including the original campus of Presbyterian Homes & Services (PHS) in Arden Hills, MN. Step-by-step the resourceful women continued to lay plans. Research was followed by fundraising. They asked themselves, “What did we know about fundraising?” remembers Jean Jacobson who was a member of the Association with Kitty Andersen. Without hesitation they sought help from trusted financial experts in their community, including Earl Swanson and Bob Davis. Many individuals donated money, as did the Bayport Foundation, and in the fall of 1961 Croixdale opened debt-free. The one-story, flat-roofed building was designed for 50 residents in a homey atmosphere. The aging population could remain in Bayport and be vitally involved in the community. Jacobson, also a charter member of the Croixdale board of directors, recalled early participation of local churches, Girl Scouts and other willing volunteers. “It wasn’t hard to get people involved” she said. By the mid-1990’s Croixdale recognized once again, the need to update its property and operations. However financial resources were a pressing concern. In response, Croixdale affiliated with PHS and Lakeview Hospital in 1998, and plans were developed. Another capital campaign resulted in contributions totaling $12 million that enabled a complete campus renovation. Rene Roeser, Croixdale’s administrator, who has worked for PHS for more than twenty-five years, transferred to Croixdale in 2001. She was welcomed for her leadership, expertise and natural rapport with all the staff. Rene took responsibility not only for the staff but also the construction project details and design. The new building was completed in 18 months. Its wrap around style of architecture expresses the warmth you find inside and outside. Its wooded hillside location is inviting to the wildlife that visit the campus all year. A gazebo furnished with chairs and a small picturesque bridge over the pond add to its natural beauty. On entering the building, you immediately feel it reaching out to greet you. (Continued on p. 16) A plan to add an apartment building for seniors arose in March 1978 and fundraising began again. A four-story, 41-unit building was financed entirely by donations from area individuals, foundations and businesses. The $2 million project was celebrated with an open house in 1981. Jean Jacobson (left), charter Croixdale board member, greets Dagne Christensen, current resident who worked as a nurse at Croixdale from 1975 to 1995, at the 50th Anniversary kick-off dinner in January 2011. perspectives 15
Page 1 and 2: P r e s b y t e r i a n H o m e s &
Page 3 and 4: On the cover: Croixdale residents a
Page 5 and 6: Pathways to Better Health Pathways
Page 7 and 8: Feeding the Multitude The new commi
Page 9 and 10: In the St. Croix Valley, over 250 h
Page 11 and 12: In the months following Scott’s d
Page 13: Lueders says that throughout the cl
Page 17 and 18: Hello & Goodbye to PHS Board Member
Page 19 and 20: On the Horizon Project Updates Lak
Page 21 and 22: The Deerfield, New Richmond, WI Con
Page 23 and 24: The Philanthropic Perspective Your

Fall 2011 - Presbyterian Homes & Services

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