King-Bruwaert House celebrates Legacy & Leaders dinner

More than 50 guests attended a celebration of the 10th King-Bruwaert Legacy & Leaders dinner held Nov. 7 in the historic Great Lounge of the Burr Ridge retirement community. The dinner honored two long-term members of the K-B Board of Directors, as well as seven residents and family members who generously donated funds to support educational opportunities at K-B.

K-B CEO Terri Bowen gave opening remarks to guests who enjoyed an elegant dinner enhanced by theme event colors of navy and gold. Following the gracious dinner, Chairman of the Board John Grube presented gifts and offered praise and gratitude to departing Board members, James Parsons and Dirk Nelson.

James Parsons joined the Board in 2007, serving as Chairman of the Development, Marketing and Admissions Committee. He played a key role in reviewing strategic goals and objectives and offering feedback and suggestions to help improve programs and advance initiatives. As an attorney, Mr. Parsons shared his legal expertise while serving on K-B’s Governance Committee and helped K-B to evolve from a Private Foundation into a Public Charity.

Although Dr. Nelson could not attend the dinner, he was recognized by Mr. Grube for his service and leadership. Dr. Nelson became a Director in 2002 and served as Chairman of the Medical and Ethics Committee. He worked closely with management and staff in reviewing ethical and medical situations. Dr. Nelson was noted to be an effective leader in sharing and monitoring technological advances to help the K-B medical community.

Ms. Bowen had the honor of recognizing community donors who have supported K-B employees with funding for a variety of scholarships. Martin and Pat Jahn gave substantial donations that made scholarships available to qualified staff, members of the K-B Maintenance Department and employees in the Nursing Department. They also support a scholarship for the children of employees. The Jahns have been active members of the K-B community for several years.

The late George Rinder and his wife, Shirley, former residents of the Woods of King-Bruwaert, originally started a scholarship in their name to make funds available to staff interested in pursuing higher educational goals and advanced training. The Rinders’ adult family members: Carl Rinder, Robert and April Rinder and Susan and Robert Sitrick, have continued the Rinder Scholarship at K-B, allowing for the long-term availability of funds to employees wishing to pursue educational goals.

“Educational opportunities are vital to K-B as we make every effort to attract qualified, caring staff and perpetuate a welcoming and supportive workplace,” Ms. Bowen said. “We are very thankful for such thoughtful and generous gifts that truly benefit our staff.”

As a charitable organization that began in 1933, K-B maintains a mission to provide exceptional care and services to senior adults seeking independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing. Throughout the years, K-B has received donations, grants, legacy gifts and matching funds that support the community and enhance services and amenities.