celebrating 6o years

The 60th anniversary celebration at Wexner Heritage Village on June 2 honored the organization’s past, present and future with an event that was attended by more than 250 guests, and featured a memorable performance by Roslyn Kind – ‘kid sister’ of Barbra Streisand. Guests were surrounded by displays of memorabilia, including a time capsule, banners with images spanning six decades, and décor that gave the event a theatrical theme.

“We wholeheartedly thank all who gave of their time and resources to make the evening meaningful, not just for Wexner Heritage Village but for the families, individuals and corporate partners who help make this organization all that it is,” said David Rosen, Wexner Heritage Village President and CEO. “We look forward to the opportunities the next 60 years will bring, and we welcome the community’s support of our vision.”

“The event’s success was the result of a generous outpouring of support from our community through contributions, tributes, volunteering, and donations of goods and services,” said Amy Wharton, SVP of Development and Marketing at Wexner Heritage Village.

The in-kind donors, who made generous contributions to the celebration were: Blumen Garten Florist, CSC Worldwide, Dancor Inc., Hilton Columbus at Easton, L.A. Venneri, Inc., Lorn Spolter Photography, Morrison Senior Living, Pagetech Ltd., My Chauffeur, Parking Solutions, Inc., and WOSU Public Media.

The 60th anniversary celebration also kicked off a five-year, $10 million Campaign to Revolutionize Care at Wexner Heritage Village, which will underwrite plans to expand programs and services. A video screened at the event – which featured conversations with Wexner Heritage Village leadership, residents, employees, and former board member Leslie H. Wexner – highlighted the organization’s growth opportunities achievable with support from individuals, as well as its accomplishments over the past six decades. The video is viewable online on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E-Y3cok5Tgc

Roslyn Kind with Heritage House Residents

Earlier in the day, Ms. Kind met with Ben Gelber of WCMH-TV Ch. 4 to participate in a musical activity with residents at Wexner Heritage House. During Kind’s visit with residents, she played the tambourine and sang with along with Rabbi Cary Kozberg before going around to each resident to share encouraging words – and hugs – with them. Her presence generated lots of smiles and applause.

“Singing with the residents brought back memories of time spent singing for – and with – my mom, who suffered from Alzheimer’s in her final years,” Kind said. “Music and singing brought her so much joy and transcended what had become a lack in her communication skills. It brought tears to my eyes as I watched Rabbi Kozberg engaging the residents who have Alzheimer’s in song.”

“I was very impressed with the tender loving care given to the residents by all the people I met, including the nursing staff, the administrators and everyone at Wexner Heritage Village,” Kind said. ”Their deep concern, gentle attention, and open hearts were very evident.”