The Messenger - Phoebe Ministries

INSIDE:CEO Message . . . . . . . . . . .2Terrace’s 25th Anniversary . .2Phoebe Berks News . . . . . . .3Rehab; Brain Fitness . . . . . .4Charitable Giving . . . . . . . . .5Summer 2009 • Vol. 91, No. 2The Messenger is published three times a year by Phoebe Ministries • 1-800-453-8814 • www.phoebe.orgGearhart Scholarships . . . . .5Phoebe Family Photos . . .6, 7Calendar; Volunteers . . . . . .8GOING GREEN,The Phoebe WayThese days, socially and financiallyresponsible businesses are environmentallyresponsible ones, too.Phoebe spends $3 million on energy eachyear and has challenged employees to findways to reduce energy usage by 10%.Energy conservation committees havebeen established throughout the organization.Departments have identified ways tosave energy that can be acted on rightaway, such as reducing the number of overheadlights being used and turning off computersand monitors at night. WyncoteChurch Home has implemented an end-ofdaychecklist reminding staff to turn offlights, computers and other equipment.Phoebe Richland is reducing the use of disposableproducts in its food service andmoved to tray-less dining this past year,reducing the number of times its dishwasheris run by 12.5 times each meal. PhoebeBerks formed a “Green Team,” includingboth staff and residents and hopes that byeducating all members of the community,they will yield even greater savings.A “Green IT” program has beenemployed for some time now by Phoebe’sInformation Technology department. Withthe department’s zero-landfill approach tothe disposal of PCs and monitors, olderhardware is donated or sold to others whocanusetheequipmentorsee toenvironmentallysafedisposal.Improved air handlingin the data center,automated power-save software,and upgrades to energy-efficientLCD monitors are just a few of the“green” initiatives underway.Phoebe’s food service provider CURAHospitality, Inc. recycles cooking oil, andPhoebe receives reimbursement for it, too!The recycled oil is used in animal feeds andbio-fuel replacements. A proposal to recyclefood scraps is also being considered.For its long range energy plan, Phoebehas worked with Asset Solutions, a divisionof Aramark, to identify areas in which wecan save and garner a return on capitalinvestment in energy saving equipment.Asset Solutions evaluated lighting, windows,heatingand air conditioning,water usageand other systems at each Phoebe site.Phoebe Home is already implementing onerecommendation and replacing fluorescentlights and lamps throughout the buildingwith energy efficient fixtures. The projectentails updating about 600 fixtures andwhen complete will save approximately$10,000 each year in energy costs.To take energy conservation to thenext level, Phoebe has made a commitmentto put $500,000 into energy improvementsand is seeking grants and contributions tohelp achieve this big step in going green,the Phoebe Way. ■Kathy Bohnenberger Named ‘Innovator of the Year’Kathy Bohnenberger, Director of Activities and Volunteers,Phoebe Home, received PANPHA’s Innovator of the YearDistinguished Service Award June 25 as part of the associationof non-profit senior services’ annual meeting in Hershey.Criteria for the award includes “obtaining extraordinary servicesfrom a staff which becomes enthusiastically motivated,reaches in new directions on an experimental basis for thegreater welfare of residents and involves outside communityresources in a creative, mutually beneficial manner.”Bohnenberger initiated “The Eden Alternative” at PhoebeHome more than a decade ago and tailored it to fit that community,now calling the program “The Circle of Life.” The programseeks to make Phoebe more home-like by providingopportunities to garden, interact with children and care for animals.Today, 16 cats, 2 rabbits, 28 birds and many fish bringjoy to residents. And in the summer, a weeklong children’s daycamp run by staff and residents fills the halls and front lawnwith songs, energy and laughter.Bohnenberger was honored to receive the award. SheSee BOHNENBERGER, p. 2

2 MessengerCEO MessageFaith in Action: Phoebe’sGuide, Then and NowSince becoming Phoebe’sCEO, I have given a lot ofthought and prayer to what wemight do during this first yearof my leadership that couldmake a meaningful differencein how we see ourselves asthe “Phoebe family” and howwe work together to serve ourresidents.Scott StevensonPresident & CEOPhoebe was founded more than a century agoby members of the Reformed Church whose faithinspired them to care for the elderly. Today, faithcontinues to inform theway we work at Phoebe.‘Today, faithI believe one reason peoplechoose to be a partcontinuesof Phoebe is becauseto informworking here allows themthe way we to put their faith intowork ataction every day.One might think thatPhoebe.’because I come from afinancial background, Iam solely interested in bottom line numbers. Whileperformance results are critical, that is not the case.Just as important to me is the way we accomplishthose results, the way we treat our residents and thevalues we bring to our working relationships witheach other day in and day out.During my first year, my goal is to reclaim andgive visibility to the way our faith influences ouractions at Phoebe. A representative Faith in ActionTeam will work together over the next few months.The group will develop a set of values that governour relationships. In addition they will recommendways to capture our faith in our mission statementand proposals for Phoebe’s vision statement thatembody our faith-filled dreams for Phoebe.I see many possibilities to build on the outcomesof this initiative. Here are a few:● improving our performance managementprocess● undergirding our culture change to residentfocusedcare● marketing and branding that emphasize the faithdimension of the “Phoebe difference”● strengthening our connection with our larger faithcommunity● recruiting staffI will personally keep you posted on both theprogress and outcome of this initiative and thankyou in advance for your interest and support. ■Phoebe Terrace Chaplains Past and PresentJoin in 25th Anniversary Worship Servicen May 6, 1984, I had just turned 11 and“O was probably out riding my bikesomewhere. I didn’t know a thing aboutPhoebe Ministries. I didn’t know that oneday I would be called to be here with youthis evening,” began Rev. Albert Martin,Chaplain at Phoebe’s Allentown Campusand leader of Phoebe Terrace’s 25thAnniversary worship service.In coordinating the service, he askedformer Terrace chaplains to share, throughletter or in person, how they experiencedGod while offering their ministry at thecommunity. Rev. Susan Hanson , now pastorat St. Mark’s UCC Allentown,remembered watching a groupof residents playing bocce ballon the front lawn, cheeringeach other on and giggling “likegirls playing skip rope.” She realizedthat “true happiness andreal laughter that comes evenin the midst of difficult timesare among the best encounterswe can have with God.”In addition to the worshipservice, which featured a choirof residents and friends, thePastoral Care staff was alsoinvolved with planning theweek-long celebration. Rev. Dr.Bohnenberger, continued from p. 1Allan Kramer-Moyer compiled a retrospectivemedia presentation on the history ofPhoebe Terrace and the vivacity of its residents.The program preceded a “doverelease” ceremony in which each residenthad the opportunity to hold and release abeautiful white homing pigeon, bred tolook like a dove.“It was special to me because it wasspecial to the residents,” summarized Rev.Martin of his involvement in the activities.“I wanted it to be a celebration of thesacredness of the Terrace and the peoplewho live here.” ■Phoebe Terrace residents Naomi Schleicher (left) and Louise Prathertake their turns releasing trained white homing pigeons as part of a“dove release” marking the community’s 25th anniversary.Phoebe Institute on Aging BenefitThursday, Nov. 12, 6-9 p.m.Lehigh Country Club, AllentownAddress by Lisa Genova, Ph.D.Author of the New York Times bestseller “Still Alice,”a novel about a fiercely independent 50-year-old woman’s descent into early Alzheimer’s.Benefiting programs of the Phoebe Institute on Aging and educational opportunitiesPhoebe Institute on Aging Community ProgramFriday, Nov. 13, 8 a.m.-NoonCedar Crest College, Alumni HallFeaturing Lisa Genova, Ph.D.To register, call 610-794-5135 or go to www.phoebe.orgsays, “It is truly special to have been nominated by my co-workers. I am very fortunate to workwith a group of very talented, enthusiastic, good-humored and compassionate women, and toserve a facility that embraces innovation.”Bohnenberger encourages her staff to look at a situation with the attitude of “how can wemake it happen?” She recognizes what is essential to residents’ well-being. Life is not simply fourwalls, a bed, meals on a tray and bingo, she states. Bohnenberger makes life happen at Phoebe.Her crusade is to improve each resident’s quality of life. “There is so much to be learned from ourelders,” she says. ■.

Messenger 3Berks Wellness Program Improving Health of ParticipantsAnew wellness program led by KarenMiller at Phoebe Berks has provided benefitsto residents and staff alike, includingincreased muscle strength, better endurance,weight loss, improved posture and balance.“One man even told me his golf gameimproved because he is now stronger andcan hit the ball farther; his increased staminaallows him to play all 18 holes,” says Miller.Formerly an activities coordinator atPhoebe Berks, Miller saw a need for a fitnesscoordinator. When she suggested it to Rev.Barry Galley, Vice President Operations, Berks,he didn’t need any convincing. Previouslymanager of a senior center in which shetaught fitness classes, Miller says, “I updatedmy Group Fitness Certification, became certifiedas a Personal Trainer and took courses inaqua fitness and yoga” to prepare for the newposition.A sampling of the opportunities Milleroffers residents and staff includes yoga, anindoor walking program and aquatic circuittraining. She schedules bi-monthly bustrips for residents to walk at local parksand trails. Miller is also able to work individuallywith residents, training them onthe use of equipment in the FitnessCenter and addressing specific problemssuch as balance, leg strength or posture.Resident Carolyn Stevenson participatedin Miller’s aerobics classes for yearsbefore she moved to Phoebe Berks.“As far as I’m concerned, she’s a miracleworker,” says Stevenson. A major injury andsurgery in December was only a small setbackas she worked hard in Phoebe’s shorttermrehab program. By April, she was backwith Karen, doing five aerobics classes aweek. “It has kept me on my feet!”For a list of programs, visit www.phoebeberks.org/wellness.■Chair yoga and water walking are two of the classesnow being offered in the wellness program atPhoebe Berks Village.Live in the Moment,Phoebe Speaker UrgesSage wisdom for us all, especially if you face thechallenges of caring for a loved one with dementia.Cameron Camp, Ph.D., an advocate for using Montessoribasedactivities for those with dementia, addressedPhoebe this May at the Phoebe Institute on Aging.Camp urges us to focus on strengths and abilities, notproblems and deficits. Establish a connection with lovedones through abilities that don’t diminish with time, such asmusic, art, facial expressions and touch. Ongoing vibrantand meaningful relationships are possible.Now open,PhoebeBerks’ AdultDay Centerprovidesrespite carefor thosewho haveloved oneswithdementia.Selena Lehman, Manager of Memory SupportServices on the Phoebe Berks campus, calls this philosophya “refreshing approach” and has already put many ofCamp’s suggestions into practice with staff.One of these is to use sentences of five words or lesswhen speaking with someone affected by memory loss.“The end result is that we become easier to understand,thus creating a better communication flow,” says Lehman.The team is also developing a journal for each resident tokeep in their room. “Family members can write messages,such as ‘I love you’ or “I’ll be here to see you in the morning,’which provide a sense of comfort and can ease periodsof anxiety or agitation.” ■Phoebe Berks HCC Staff WelcomesHomelike Quality of ‘Culture Change’Staff members at Phoebe BerksHealth Care Center are nowmeasuring how they can accommodateresidents’ wishes and helpthem feel respected instead of justassessing the completion of theirdaily assigned tasks.“I have heard repeatedly fromthe staff that they don’t want themomentum of Culture Change toslow down,” says Star High, RN,Director of Nursing, Phoebe Berks.“They have really embraced theconcept.”As part of their job descriptions,CNAs and licensed nursesnow “play an active role in theirassigned neighborhood andencourage staff to become engagedin Culture Change and find ways toparticipate in the journey,” High continues.Family members and loved onessee that instead of simply hurryingresidents from one activity toanother, the Center’s employees areable to provide the type of compassionatecare that allows them todecide how, and even more importantlywhen, necessary tasks arecompleted.Impromptu events like icecream and cookie socials occurtoward the end of shifts upon completionof care and serve to fostersocialization between residents,employees and visitors.After completing her morning care, CNA LisaRouck plays a game with Phoebe Berks HCCresidents Louise Seaman and Evelyn Staggs.Phoebe’s goal is to reverse thetraditionally structured living environmentnursing homes once usedand provide families with a sense ofsecurity that their loved ones arebeing cared for just as they wouldbe at home. For more information,visit www.phoebeberks.org/skillednursing.■

4 MessengerIntergenerational MosaicLongevity is the theme of a new, inter-generationalart fixture being created at Phoebe Richland. Local artistMary Pierce, commonly referred to as “Mosaic Mama,”and home-schooled students from the area began workingwith residents in February to create a 13 ft. x 3 ft. tilemosaic for the Center’s courtyard. The work continues.Funded by the Edwin J. and Gertrude K. NeuschFund of the Lehigh Valley Community Foundation, themosaic depicts an Asian landscape with a colorful borderof 4 in. tiles that embody the feelings of the people creatingit. “We want to provide residents with opportunities tofeel that they are valued members of the community, andthat they can make an impact,” says Activities DirectorKristin Kiehstaller.More than 30 residents and 20 students areinvolved in the project. Betty Hassler, a short-term rehabresident, says, “It gave me an outlet and was very creative.I look forward to seeing the completed mosaic duringfuture visits.” ■Grand-buddies and MitzvahsSoon after visiting Phoebe Home for the first time todeliver flowers to residents as part of a school program,Nilaya and Devika Knafo (pictured, front) experienced theloss of their grandfather, Maurice, who lived at home. Thefamily was glad they were able to be near Maurice atsuch a time, but sad that all families are not as fortunate.They decided to start the Maurice Mitzvah Fund to letother seniors know they are not alone or forgotten.Through the charity, the girls and their brother, Pasha(also in photo), created gift baskets in memory of theirgrandfather. In Hebrew, a mitzvah is a good deed, andthese children are doing plenty of mitzvahs for their new“grand-buddies” at Phoebe Home. The handmade basketsincluded blankets, hand cream, tissues, cookies andother comforting items. The best part about visiting theresidents, said 6-year-old Pasha, “was hugging them.”“Watching the children deliver the baskets was overwhelming,”said Kathy Bohnenberger, Director, Activitiesand Volunteers for Phoebe Home. “It was very special.” ■Gateway Rehab Graduates Reconnectwith Caregivers, FriendsPhoebe Richland’s Gateway neighborhoodhosted an open house recently to invite graduatesof the rehab unit back to share their successstories and reconnect with staff. JamesRubright, a graduate who recovered from spinalstenosis surgery at Phoebe Richland last summer,and his wife, Marlene, enjoyed catching up withphysical therapist Sean Regan.Employees from every department attended,and many grads enjoyed sharing time withone of the two rehab dogs who helped themthrough many sessions of sometimes uncomfortablework. (See photo, lower right.)The event featured live piano music duringa summer picnic-style lunch, and theHappy Bombadeers, a lively group of Boombaplayers who brought smiles to many facesand even recruited new members from theaudience.Shown playing a Boomba (top) is ArleanDetweiler, a graduate who formed a bondwith a resident across the hall during herstay. Although they continue to be very closefriends, the reunion allowed them to seeeach other in person for the first time sinceboth returned home from Phoebe earlierthis year. ■First Brain Fitness Class Earns DiplomasThe first group of residents to complete a Brain Fitness program at PhoebeTerrace attended commencement in May. For eight weeks, using Brain Fitnesssoftware developed by Posit Science Corporation, determined students workedan hour a day, five days a week, challenging themselves with brain calisthenics.Through a collaborativeeffort with PennTreaty and PositScience, Phoebe set upa computer lab andbegan offering residentsthe opportunityto use the Brain FitnessProgram.One student,Phoebe Terrace residentMargaret Teitsworth, gave an inspirational testimonial about the positivechanges she experienced in her life from taking the program. “After completingthe program, my head feels clear and it’s easier to recall words and names.Instead of feeling drained after each class, I began to feel exhilarated,” she said.Margaret, who plans to volunteer as a coach for future classes, said she will continuedoing the brain exercises using the software on her own computer.“We couldn’t have worked with a better organization than Phoebe,” saidSteve La Pierre of Posit Science. “Everyone involved with making this programhappen really made it exciting for us.”A second class took place in June, and another will be open to the publicfrom Sept. 21-Nov. 13. For more information, call 610-794-MIND. ■

Marcella MoyerSchick, CFREVice President,InstitutionalAdvancementCharles L. Fehr,CFREDirector, LeadershipGifts & Phoebe BerksAdvancementCharitable Giving Options to Considerin Today’s Economic EnvironmentPhoebe Ministries is blessed in manyways – especially by the generosity of peoplewho support our mission and ministry bymaking charitable gifts.We know that many people have feltthe effects of the difficult economy andnever want you to risk financial securitywhen making a gift. Consult your professionaladvisors to be sure that what you are consideringis right for your personal circumstances.We are here to help with your giftplanning concerns about how, when andwhat you might give. If you need moreincome, you may wish to consider qualifiedlife-income plans, for example, allowed byIRS and benefiting both you and Phoebe.The simplest is a Charitable GiftAnnuity – it is an arrangement where youtransfer assets to Phoebe for a guaranteedincome for life. Part of that income will betax free for a period of years, depending onyour age. You also receive an immediatecharitable gift deduction for part of themonies. Another option to consider may bea Charitable Remainder Trust – this arrangementwould generally require the services ofan attorney and a financial institution.Remember that if you are feeling thatyou are not able to make a significant giftnow or in the foreseeable future, you maywant to consider including Phoebe in yourwill. This arrangement could provide muchneeded resources to Phoebe when you nolonger need the money and after you haveprovided for loved ones.Considering these and other optionsmay be very worthwhile when you have adesire to make a gift but have concernsabout needing more income or access tomoney during your lifetime. Please contactus at 610-927-8925 if you are interested inlearning more. ■Scholarships Help Young Workers, VolunteersPursue Degrees in Elder Care ProfessionsFrank Gearhart (seated) is pictured with Scott Stevenson (far left) and recipientsof the Frank and Meda Gearhart Scholarship. From left to right areChristine Molloy, Kathleen Michels, Nancy Card, Jason Najarian and EmilyBonney. Michael Battler also received a scholarship.Jason Najarian, who worksin Activities at PhoebeHome during summer vacation,believes his work atPhoebe has not only taughthim career skills, but has also“instilled a great compassionand empathy for our elders.”Jason is one of six youngpeople who earned a Phoebescholarship this past springsemester. The recipients areall pursuing post-secondaryeducation that will benefitthe future of senior livingand health care. The scholarshipfund was established byPhoebe Terrace residentFrank Gearhart. Gearhart established the fund “as a thank you for the hardwork” he sees from “the young people who balance working at Phoebe withgoing to school.”Marcella Moyer Schick, Vice President, Institutional Advancement, adds,“This wonderful gift is a most fitting expression of appreciation for theyoung employees and volunteers of Phoebe. I hope it inspires them to considerreturning to Phoebe upon graduation.”Gearhart is not alone in his desire to provide scholarships to Phoebeemployees and volunteers. Earlier this year, a scholarship fund was establishedin memory of Susan Hacker, a long-time supporter of Phoebe. ThePhoebe Terrace Resident Council also created a fund to assist LPNs atPhoebe Home who would like to pursue an R.N. degree.For information about contributing to one of these scholarship fundsor nominating a student recipient , please contact Marcella Moyer Schick at610-794-5132. ■Messenger 5Daughter PraisesConnecting Heartsfor Helping MotherRemain IndependentImagine getting phone callsfrom 3,000 miles away, knowingthere is little you can do to assistyour mother’s independence andability to remain in her ownapartment. When that happenedto Kathy Weiss of California, shewas relieved to learn of Phoebe’sGeriatric Care Management program.“It is a tremendous relief,”Weiss says, whose mother,Theresa Petrisky, a PhoebeTerrace resident, is a member ofthe Connecting Hearts program.Before cataract surgery,Petrisky was having trouble seeingand knowing when to takeher medicine. With the help ofhome health assistants andappropriate prescription packagingprovided by the Phoebe pharmacy,things began to improve.“Not only do they go to the doctorwith her, they let me know whatis going on and coordinate anythingthat needs to be changed,”says Weiss.“She is such a success story,”Cindy Rice, Care Manager forPhoebe Terrace commented. “Somany things are working togetherand she is doing really well.”Rice worked with Petrisky sinceAugust of last year, coordinatingtransportation to physicianappointments, the services ofhome health assistants and callingin a certified financial managerwho helps with bill paymentand insurance submission.“I used to be afraid when thephone rang,” says Weiss, “but notany more.”For more information, callConnecting Hearts at 610-794-5344,or go to www.phoebe.org/connectinghearts.■

6 MessengerPhoebe FamilyMarian Bullock (right) leads the Phoebe Apartments Book Club at itsmonthly meeting. Other members include (from left) Annabel Mengl, LoisWoodruff, Sallie Gery and Gladys Tate.Love of LiteratureUnites Bookwormsat Phoebe Apartmentst the first cup of tea you are a stranger, by the second“A you are a friend, and by the third you are family,”repeats Marian Bullock as she leads a discussion on ” ThreeCups of Tea,” a New York Times No. 1 bestseller about adventurerGreg Mortenson’s attempt to promote peace inPakistan.A vibrant group of women take part in these monthlydiscussions in the game room of Phoebe Apartments,Allentown. The topic of each gathering is a book providedby the Parkland Community LibraryStories that remain favorites throughout the threeyears the group has met include “Devil in the White City”and “Eat Pray Love.” Historical novels that inform as well asentertain, such as “Mayflower” and “The Other Boleyn Girl,”are also well-loved. According to Bullock, “We learned a lotabout China from ‘Snowflower and the Secret Fan.’”What brings the women back each month is the abilityto discuss books with others as they read them and thecamaraderie that has developed within the group. “I usedto go to the library on my own, but now with a book deliveredto me every month, it’s wonderful,” laughs groupmember Sallie Gery.Because of the “Book Tote” program they use throughthe library, only five members can belong at a time simplydue to the number of copies made available to them. Inaddition to Bullock and Gery, members include Gladys Tait,Annabel Mengel and Lois Woodruff, who all think thegroup might not be as close-knit if it were larger.Bullock comments on her dedication, “I just enjoy itbecause I like good books.” ■Ted Snyder, a retired AllentownAssistant Chief of Police nowresiding at Phoebe Home, was surprised this spring with a coffee hour coordinated by theActivities staff to celebrate his birthday. Joe Hanna, Allentown Chief of Police, (seen at left,congratulating Synder) was escorted to Phoebe Home by uniformed police officers in policecruisers to visit his mentor. Once inside, the officers presented Synder with a citation andgifts.Right: Phoebe’sAllentown campuswas host in June tothe Alzheimer’sFoundation ofAmerica’s Quilt toRemember. The quiltwas created to helpothers recognize thereality and enormityof the disease, andacknowledge that westand united for optimalcare and a cure.Left: Wyncote Church Home’s Activities staff hasassembled a Sensory Cart stocked with differentmaterials geared toward hands-on activities forresidents with dementia. Boxes contain differenttextures and sorting activities. A favorite featureof the cart is a life-like lap dog that appears tobreathe. “One resident who responds to very littleactually reached out his hand and started to petthis dog,” says Activities Director Emily Spahr.The Village Gardens Memory Support Unitopened on June 15 to provide specialized care onthe Berks campus for residents with Alzheimer’sdisease and other dementias. Working side byside with each of the appropriate care disciplines,the Pastoral Care department began providing forthe spiritual needs of residents. Chaplains willprovide regular opportunities for spiritual activitiessuch as Chaplain’s Hour, Poetry Hour, weeklydevotions and hymn sings.Residents are being encouraged and supportedto use their own gifts and talents for spiritualexpression, as well. For example, one residentprovides musical accompaniment on the keyboardand another is reading scripture for devotionaltime and offering grace at mealtimes. TheVillage Gardens is quickly becoming a safe,secure and accommodating home for these specialpeople, and Pastoral Care is pleased to bepart of the family. ■Phoebe Home volunteer Doris Klase washonored with the 2009 Lehigh County UnsungHero Award at a ceremony in May. This award isgiven to older adults in the community who displayexceptional generosity with their time and talent toenhance the lives of others. ■Thirteen persons, including Village residents,community volunteers and staff, recently completeda four-week training program preparing them toserve as Abiders for Phoebe Berks Village andHealth Care Center. Abiders are volunteers whoserve as companions to individuals who may ormay not have other means of personal support inthe final stages of life. This program is modeled

Messenger 7Photo AlbumA presentation of blue knittedscarves was made by residents andstaff of Phoebe Home’s David A.Miller Personal Care Community tothe Child Advocacy Center of LehighCounty. On their own time, Phoebestaff members Michelle Reppert andDiane Ruth taught a group of residents(right) how to knit scarves forthe Center’s Blue Scarf Campaign.Blue ribbon symbolizes child abuseprevention, and the Center distributesthe scarves to keep childrenwarm and spread the message thatall children deserve care, affectionand protection. Nearly 50 scarveshave been made by the residents to date. To donate blue yarn to the project, please contact AudreyGraver, Activities Coordinator at 610-794-5259.Above: Erin Price, a middle school student in the Pennridge School District,organized a Spring Formal Fashion Show in May for residents of PhoebeRichland Health Care Center. Residents were served canapés while Price andother students modeled formal wear on a runway.Above: This spring, for the second year, Phoebe Richland hosted Phoebe’s Social WorkMonth Celebration Luncheon, bringing all Phoebe Ministry’s social workers together tothank, acknowledge and celebrate them for faithfully serving Phoebe’s residents, families,volunteers and staff. Response to the event has been so good, Phoebe plans to hold it eachyear, rotating to different campuses.Above: Members of Phoebe Home’s Five StarCustomer Service Team are shown accepting a PhoebeAward in April, the highest honor given by the organization.Other recipients included the Dining Servicesand Culture Change Teams of Phoebe Richland’sSpringhouse neighborhood, and Phoebe Home’sExcellence in Care Program of Distinction Team.In January, Bobbi-Jo Novogoratz, Nursing; Cindy Raub,Social Services; Sara Estrada and Michelle Keenan,Social Services; Sandy Masters, RNACs; and JoanWickel, Activities and Volunteers, were honored forearning all five stars in Phoebe Home’s Five StarCustomer Service Program. During the first year of thisprogram, more than 150 stars were awarded to 112employees.on the Abiders ministry at Phoebe Home and iscommitted to the conviction that no one shoulddie alone unless he chooses to do so. Thetraining also included in-servicing of the nursingstaff, who are the primary sources of referrals.To date, the Berks Abiders have companionedtwo persons, one in Village Commons and theother in the Health Care Center. Training wasconducted by Chaplains Naomi Dublanica andJohn Fureman. Mrs. Ethel Shaner, a Villageresident, was the coordinator. ■Phoebe Home’s Basket Social marks its10th year this October. What began small aspart of a dog show on Phoebe Home’s frontlawn is now a full-scale fundraiser benefitting theCircle of Life program.For the last several years, Midge Coker, aPhoebe Home volunteer, coordinated the eventcommittee, and helped to expand the BasketSocial into a two-day event. Through her organizationalefforts and the group’s hard work, lastyear 85 baskets were raffled, 34,000 tickets weresold and almost $6,000 was raised.Left: Volunteers, staff, residentsand local clergy celebrated theformal installation of MichellStaska-Pier (center, leaning forward)as Vice President of Operations,Allentown Campus, andAdministrator of Phoebe Home.The installing officer was Rev.Alan Miller, Conference Ministerof Penn NE Conference of theUCC. Also attending wereStaska-Pier’s twin daughters, whovisit Phoebe Home residentsweekly with their grandmother.Phoebe Home Basket Social Revs Up for 10th YearCommittee member Bobbi-Jo Novogoratz,Administrative Assistant, Nursing, encouragesdepartments and neighborhoods to donate itemsor baskets for the event. “Employees really havefun making the baskets every year. They areconstantly trying to out-do themselves,” shesays.The Basket Social will take place from 4-8 p.m., Thurs., Oct. 1, and from 7 a.m.- 4 p.m.,Fri., Oct. 2 in Moyer Hall, Phoebe Home.Check www.phoebe.org/newsandevents formore information. ■

AUGUST23 6 – 8 p.m.Wyomissing Band ConcertPhoebe Berks Village Green.For details, call 610-927-8513.SEPTEMBER10 10 a.m.Grief in Growth SupportGroup Phoebe Berks Chapel,3rd Thursday of the month toend of year. Call 610-927-8513for details.CALENDAR OF EVENTS11 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.Feeling Fine in 2009 - PhoebeHome Expo Moyer Hall,Phoebe Home. Featuring healthscreenings, food samples,vendors and demos.11 a.m. - 4 p.m.Phoebe Apartments OpenHouse Call 794-6262 for details.17 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.Family Day & Art WalkFestival Phoebe Richland HCC.For details, call 267-371-4508.25, 26 Time: TBAAllentown Garden Club’s“Jewels of Autumn” FlowerShow Moyer Hall, PhoebeHome. Call 610-794-5365 fordetails.OCTOBER1 4-8 p.m.Phoebe Home Basket SocialMoyer Hall, Phoebe Home.Benefits the Home’s Circle ofLife Program. For details, call610-794-5365.2 7 a.m.-4 p.m.Phoebe Home Basket Socialcontinues.15 1:30 p.m.Medicare Part D Program byBerks Encore, Phoebe BerksAuditorium. To RSVP, call Dianaat 610-927-8513.For morePHOEBE EVENTSthis year, go towww.phoebe.org/newsandeventsNOVEMBER12 6-9 p.m.Phoebe Institute on AgingBenefit Lehigh Country Club,Allentown. Address by LisaGenova, Ph.D., author of NewYork Times bestseller Still Alice.For details, call 610-794-5135or e-mail hhaas@phoebe.org.13 8:30 a.m.-NoonPhoebe Institute on AgingCommunity Program AlumnaeHall, Cedar Crest College.Featured speaker: Lisa Genova,Ph.D. Call 610-794-5135 ore-mail hhaas@phoebe.org fordetails.9 a.m. -1 p.m.AARP Driver Safety Program(refresher) Phoebe BerksVillage. Call 610-927-8513 formore information.17 10 a.m.-3 p.m.Holiday Craft Bazaar MoyerHall, Phoebe Home. For details,call 610-794-5365.19, 209 a.m. - 1 p.m.AARP Driver Safety ProgramPhoebe Berks Village, first-timeattendees only, 2-day program.For more information, call 610-927-8513.DECEMBER5 Christmas House Tour atFurnace Creek Manor. Fordetails, call 610-693-6182.7 2-4 p.m. Berks Holiday OpenHouse Call 610-927-8561 fordetails and registration.Non-Profit Org.US PostagePAIDPermit No. 12Kutztown, PATHE MESSENGERPhoebe MinistriesInstitutional Advancement Dept.1925 Turner St.Allentown, PA 18104Wyncote Volunteer’s Service Goes the Extra MileWhen Debby Koenigwanted to mend hermother- or father-inlaw’sclothes as theyneared the end of theirlives at Wyncote ChurchHome, she did so on theHome’s sewing machine.When her visits ended,however, she realized shecould multiply that actof kindness by becominga volunteer who mendsitems for any Wyncoteresident.Returning as avolunteer one day aweek, Koenig patchedgarments, replacedbuttons, fixed frayedseams and brokenzippers, and stitched up holes in pockets.She also has made many quilts for Wyncote.One serves as a wall hanging in the mainlobby, two were raffled off in fundraisersand nine were given to needy residents.Volunteer Debby Koenig of Latrobe, Pa., andthe quilt she made for Wyncote’s lobby.To become a Phoebevolunteer, go towww.phoebe.org/giving&volunteers“When I retired, myhusband and I movedfrom Rockledge to myhometown of Latrobe,Pa. [300 miles west], andstarted attending achurch that has a quiltinggroup.” To date, thegroup has made twoquilts for Wyncote residents.“I made anothertwo,” Koenig said.“Debby still makesquilts for residents anddelivers them whenevershe’s in town,” saysLori DiFiglia, the center’sVolunteer Coordinator.“She is a goodfriend and an amazingperson.”Wyncote is in need of volunteers toprovide one-on-one visits, bird care, giftshop assistance, escort service on residenttrips, piano music, pet visits and men’s clubactivities. Interested? Call 215-461-2149. ■THE MESSENGERis published three times a year by:Phoebe Ministries1925 Turner Street, Allentown, PA 18104610-794-5130 ■ 800-453-8814Fax: 610-794-5421Scott Stevenson - President and CEOAlan McFall, Esq. - Chairman, Phoebe Ministries Governing BoardMarcella Moyer Schick - Vice President, Institutional AdvancementProject Manager: Trina Johnson-BradyDesigner: Mary VendittaContributors this issue: Tracy Kleppinger BozikTrina Johnson-BradyCharles FehrHelen HaasMelanie KohlerMolly KranzleyMarcella Moyer SchickMary VendittaPhoebe-Devitt Homes is the official name of the 501(c)3 not-for-profit corporation known asPhoebe Ministries. Founded in 1903 and incorporated as such in 1984, Phoebe-Devitt Homesis responsible for the supervision of facilities, long-range planning, development and fundraisingfor 16 communities. Together, these affiliates provide long-term care, housing and supportservices to more than 2,300 individuals.Member of the American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging, PANPHA, andCouncil for Health and Human Service Ministries of the United Church of Christ.The official registration and financial information of Phoebe-Devitt Homes, the foundation ofPhoebe Ministries, may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling tollfree, within Pennsylvania at 1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.Serving the needs of our aging populationwww.phoebe.org