FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Ashley Bills, Corporate Director of Communications & Media Relations
740.525.5703 or abills@uchinc.org
Dayton-Area Philanthropists and Volunteers Recognized for Exemplary Contributions
Dayton, OH (Aug. 23, 2023) United Church Homes (UCH) came together with its dedicated donors and volunteers to celebrate and honor the exceptional individuals who have made a significant impact on five UCH communities in Dayton, Ohio. The recognition ceremony took place at The Beavercreek Golf Club on July 20th, where heartfelt appreciation was extended to those who have demonstrated unwavering support and compassion.
The event saw the presentation of three distinguished awards, each highlighting a unique facet of dedication and generosity within the UCH communities.
The Diakonie Award, symbolizing profound commitment and compassion, was bestowed upon religious institutions whose boundless contributions have uplifted the mission of UCH and its communities. The following congregations were recognized:
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- Harmony Creek Church, a welcoming congregation of the United Church of Christ in Kettering, received the award for its impactful support of The Trinity Community at Beavercreek.
- The Trinity United Church of Christ in Fairborn was honored for its significant role in uplifting The Trinity Community at Fairborn.
The Spirit Award was presented to commend the outstanding volunteerism, advocacy, and inspiration provided to residents and their families. This recognition was conferred upon the following recipients:
- St. Luke’s Eucharistic Ministry Volunteers, representing The Trinity Community at Beavercreek, were acknowledged for their dedicated service.
- Jack Nickols received the Spirit Award for his meaningful contributions to The Trinity Community at Fairborn.
- Varn Frank was celebrated for his spirit of service and dedication to The Trinity Community at Miami Township.
- Pete Johnson’s unwavering commitment to The Trinity Community at Fairwood earned him well-deserved recognition.
The prestigious Ben M. Herbster Award, an honor reflecting the ideals, leadership, and philanthropic spirit of the late Rev. Dr. Ben M. Herbster, was presented to individuals who embody his legacy:
- Mary E. Bayman was recognized for her outstanding contributions to The Trinity Community at Beavercreek.
- Barbara A. Vollmer was honored for her dedicated involvement with The Trinity Community at Fairborn.
Expressing her gratitude, Gloria Hurwitz, Vice President of Advancement at United Church Homes, shared, “We hold deep appreciation for every donor who has contributed to the growth and well-being of our Dayton communities. It is especially heartwarming to recognize those who go above and beyond, whether through their time or resources. Events like these allow us to express our gratitude and celebrate the remarkable individuals within our community.”
The afternoon’s festivities were marked by the presence of United Church Homes’ Chief Executive Officer, Rev. Dr. Kenneth Daniel, along with esteemed community leaders including Laura Farrell, Senior Executive Director of The Trinity Community at Beavercreek; Chrissy Long, Executive Director of The Trinity Community at Miami Township; Jeremy Lemon, Administrator of The Trinity Community at Fairborn; and Margery Jones, Business Office Manager at The Trinity Community at Fairwood. Numerous employees from United Church Homes and its communities also joined in the celebration.
As United Church Homes continues to foster a culture of giving and service, these awards underscore the profound impact that individuals and communities can have when united by a shared vision of compassion and support.
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For more than 100 years, United Church Homes has been committed to providing quality housing and services to older adults. Today, UCH is the 22nd largest multisite, nonprofit senior living organization in the U.S. according to the 2022 LeadingAge Ziegler 200 ranking, serving nearly 7,000 residents in its more than 90 owned and managed market rate and affordable housing communities in 15 states and two Native American nations. United Church Homes leads with its mission to transform aging by building a culture of community, wholeness and peace for those it is privileged to serve.