Live
A retirement community that checked all the boxes A retirement community that checked all the boxes
PLEASE JOIN US AT THE PLEASE JOIN US AT THE
AT CEDAR LAKE
“The greatest joy of our new home on the Cedar Lake Campus is being surrounded by nature. Wooded trails are just steps from our door, providing the sights and sounds of birds and other wildlife.” Alan Hilgeman, The Lofts at Cedar Lake resident
NEW SUMMER SPECIAL PRICING AND LIMITED-TIME ENTRANCE FEE!
ONLY 12 UNITS REMAINING; DON’T DELAY!
The Lofts at Cedar Lake are located only 40 minutes north of Milwaukee in beautiful Washington County—offering independent resort-like living on Big Cedar Lake. Located in the heart of the beautiful Kettle Moraine and surrounded by prairies, hiking trails, forests, and abundant wildlife— shopping, fine dining, entertainment and cultural events, golfing, and an award-winning farmer’s market are just minutes away.
We invite you to learn more about this exciting new opportunity! Contact us today!
Abby Jonasson
Director 262.338.4617 ajonasson@cedarcommunity.org
Or visit us at our drop-in open houses from 2–4 p.m. every Tuesday, July 2 through August 27. Just follow the signs.
We would love to welcome you home! cedarcommunity.org
Live More featuring...
What it means to be prepared
Update from President & CEO Nicole Pretre| 4–5
From the editor’s desk
Message from our chief administrative o cer| 6
Time, talents, and treasures
A legacy of dedication and service| 8–9
News you can use
Updates and more!| 10–11
Cedar Community Champions
Celebrating outstanding team members| 13
Driven by mission. Powered by team. It takes a team| 14–17
A longstanding commitment to serving seniors
That’s a wrap on our repositioning project| 18–21
Volunteer highlight
Meet Mike and Sue Kadunc | 22–23
2024 Leadership Event Service in the Line of Fire| 24–27
Resident pro le
Meet Julie Gundrum| 28–29
Carl Ziegler Scholarship
Meet our recipients| 30–33
Feed your soul at Cedar Valley
A message from Cedar Valley UCCI| 34
Join us for a glass of lemonade
A message from our director of philanthropy| 35
Sign up at cedarcommunity.org to get news and updates delivered to your inbox about events, seminars, open houses, and the latest happenings at Cedar Community. There will be a lot of exciting endeavors in the months to come— and you won’t want to miss out.
Enjoy, explore, and embrace your best life!
Live More is published for the friends and neighbors of Cedar Community. If you would like to add a neighbor’s name to our mailing list, please contact us at 262.338.2819. To view Live More online, visit cedarcommunity.org/ live-more-magazine/.
EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Sarah Malchow
MANAGING EDITOR
Carrie Sturn
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Cyndi Frohmader
ON THE COVER
Mike and Sue Kadunc are enjoying the vibrant and ful lling retirement lifestyle they were looking for— experiencing lake living at its nest.
OUR MISSION
To model Jesus’ love by creating life-enhancing relationships, services, and environments.
What it means to
Nicole Pretre President & Chief Executive Officer
Construction is winding down on the Cedar Lake Campus—or at least the visible signs of the project. However, the work you can’t always see continues, as we prepare our community for the present, the future, and yes, the unexpected. Emergency preparedness is a regulatory requirement for Cedar Community in many of our licensed healthcare areas, but it is also critical for all areas of our organization, in order to have a plan in place for any type of disaster—natural or man-made. Fire and tornado drills are not always fun and seem to interrupt at the worst times, but those drills can make a life-saving difference.
I recently attended a presentation by Tom Grilk, the now-retired president of the Boston Athletic Association—the organization that manages the Boston Marathon. He talked about being the “person in charge” at the finish line in 2013, when two bombs went off, killing three spectators and wounding more than 250 others. As he described the horror everyone experienced at that moment, he also talked about the months and months of preparation that had gone into that day, and how all of that planning had prepared them for the crisis that ensued. Grilk shared that there were 16 ambulances staged at the marathon medical tent, and once the bombing happened, another 73 ambulances were brought online in minutes. He shared that the emergency preparedness plans in place for the marathon resulted in the 30 most critically injured victims being transported to hospitals within 18 minutes of the explosions. Following that, all seriously injured patients were transported to area hospitals within 50 minutes.
In those first few minutes of response, Grilk realized how insignificant he was as the president of the race at that moment. However, he also said he knew that he had done his job as the leader by preparing his teams. The marathon’s operations manual talks about decision-making under stress—focusing on what can be controlled, while not being limited or distracted by what can’t be controlled.
means
His reflection on that day’s events really struck home with me, partly because as I was attending his talk, our team on the Cedar Lake Campus was working through a very real-world situation that involved massive planned power outages, water shut-offs, and network interruptions. It was the second such scenario in this past year as we did the same planned outages at the Cedar Ridge Campus several months ago. These outages allowed for our facility team and vendors to place and power up new generators, run secondary power lines for all of our safety, and serve as a wonderful training exercise for team members and residents alike.
As I listened to Grilk share his story, it reinforced to me the importance of creating an environment where everyone feels prepared, supported, and empowered. It made me think about myself as a leader and how my preparedness directly impacts my ability to lift others and lead effectively to help foster a culture of collaboration, trust, and mutual respect. As a leader, being prepared for difficult and unexpected challenges is essential; it allows you to be proactive rather than reactive. When you’re well-prepared, you inspire confidence in your team while having the ability to adapt as needed to changing circumstances and approach situations with empathy and clarity.
Our unfortunate reality today is that we must be highly vigilant and prepare for the unexpected. We are blessed with an incredible team of leaders at Cedar Community, and hearing Grilk’s retelling of that day from his perspective as the “person in charge” reinforced to me my most important role is to ensure all of our team members feel prepared, supported, and ready to act. Because when our team is ready, they can serve our residents to the best of their ability.
I pray none of us will ever live through an experience like Grilk did, but I also know if we do have an unplanned emergency, I am very confident in our team’s ability to proactively respond and prioritize the safety of everyone at Cedar Community.
And, if that day comes, I hope my insignificance at the moment will show I have done my job well.
From the editor’s desk
A LOT going on...to celebrate. It’s that time of year. End-of-school activities, grade school award and recognition programs, high school and college graduations, and planning for summer travel. A LOT is going on. And your Cedar Community family agrees—a lot is going on to celebrate!
Sarah J. Malchow, CFRE Chief Administrative O cer
In the pages ahead, we have done our best to update you on some of the milestones, blessings, accolades, and activities of our friends, neighbors, team members, and campus projects.
Some highlights in this issue:
∙ Carl Ziegler Scholarship: Long-time friend, leader, and benefactor of Cedar Community, the late Prof. Carl Ziegler, made an extraordinary gift to Cedar Community in his passing. His philanthropic legacy will carry on thanks to the thoughtful establishment of our very rst endowed scholarship fund bene tting Cedar Community team members. Learn more about Carl and this year’s recipients of this inaugural award! Thank you, Carl!
∙ Checking all the boxes: Cedar Community residents Mike and Sue Kadunc have wasted no time getting involved after moving to Cedar Community. These new neighbors have a heart to serve and are an inspiration! Mike and Sue, you sure have a LOT going on! We are glad you’re here.
PS Those caramels are amazing!
∙ Construction season is almost over: Work is rapidly wrapping up on our Cedar Lake Campus repositioning project. The Willows at Cedar Lake are completed and have welcomed new residents home already. And, if you need it, our updated inpatient rehabilitation facility is amazing! These great spaces are such a blessing to residents and team members alike!
∙ We don’t like to brag, but...News You Can Use highlights the accolades and accomplishments of many of our dedicated team members. We are thankful they have chosen to pursue excellence here at Cedar Community. Congratulations, all!
∙ Pssst...one nal thing: You won’t read about this in the pages ahead, but keep your eyes and ears open later this summer. Cedar Community will be appearing in a PBS documentary near you. We are VERY excited and honored to be chosen and will let you know about our screening events!
God go with you in your comings and goings this summer and always. Wherever you are in your life’s journey, I hope you will embrace the path and—Live More.
Take courage,
MISSION
PS In each and every edition, it will be my pleasure to share some of the interesting and inspiring journeys and highlights of Cedar Community residents, friends, neighbors, and team members; our commitment to quality and exceptionalism; and our focus on responsibility and stewardship. Enjoy!
To model Jesus’ love by creating life-enhancing relationships, services, and environments.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES AND PRIORITIES
COMMUNITY TEAM QUALITY
Always dreaming? Start living your best life! Cedar Community will meet you at every stage of your retirement life. Whether it’s independent living or times when you need extra help with daily tasks—we are here for you.
That’s why Cedar Community has added a new living option—independent living plus.
THE WILLOWS AT CEDAR LAKE
TIME, TALENTS, TREASURES
A legacy of dedication and service
Throughout her 27-year career, Mary Cummings, executive assistant, has not only been instrumental in managing operational aspects of Cedar Community, but has also fostered meaningful connections with team members and residents. She has been a vital part of the daily workings of Cedar Community, providing executive support to three of Cedar Community’s four CEOs—ensuring seamless transitions across leadership successions. It has been a labor of love for Mary, and while she looks forward to retirement in September and spending more time with her husband, Bill, it is bittersweet. “Cedar Community is my home and this is where my friends are,” says Mary. “When I first interviewed at Cedar Community, I turned down other offers before they even offered me the job.”
Cedar Community has always felt like a place where Mary thought she could retire in her career. She believed in the organization’s mission and liked the idea of being able to serve the elderly. It was nothing like she had done before, having come from the finance industry, but she took the leap of faith and knew it was meant to be. “My husband said I better get the job since I turned down two other offers in the meantime,” laughs Mary.
Over the years, Mary’s position evolved from working primarily for the CEO to handling multiple tasks and projects for the executive team—serving nearly three decades of organizational leaders. She is known as the go-to person for team members who need a little extra help and support.
No matter what your position at Cedar Community, you are a part of someone’s life. I am honored to have met so many wonderful people. “
Mary has a vast knowledge of how Cedar Community runs and operates from licensing, bond nancing, survey documentation, policy management, schedule management, credentialing of medical sta , contract coordination, and so much more. (We did not have enough column space to keep listing her duties!) She also takes the time to interact with residents by serving breakfast weekly on various skilled nursing households. Mary emphasizes the importance of Cedar Community in her life and what it means to her to have this extended family—from fellow team members to residents. “It’s a close-knit community you are a part of and it truly makes you feel like you are making a di erence each and every day. It’s a purpose in life,” says Mary.
Well, much has changed in her 27 years, and Mary re ects on the importance of evolving and keeping up with the marketplace and the expectations of generations to come. “Cedar Community is here to serve residents, and I feel like our current team is really good at strategic planning. It has been an exciting time to see all the changes happening on campus.” Mary has also had to adapt to the needs of three CEOs—learning what their needs are, how they function day-to-day, and the best way to help them be e cient. “Adapting is important so you don’t hinder their success.”
Mary’s decision to retire on September 6 of this year was thoughtfully timed to align with family needs and other organization logistics, including the completion of the Cedar Lake Campus repositioning project, along with several other scheduled corporate meetings and priorities. This sel essness and commitment exemplify Mary’s dedication to our organizational success. Mary’s meticulous planning and comprehensive documentation, before her departure, leaves behind a road map for her successors to follow.
As Mary and Bill make plans for the future, she wants to retire at an opportune time to enjoy what retirement has to o er— traveling and spending time together. While she will miss the day-to-day of going to work, she knows how important it is to take time for yourself and enjoy life. “Too many times we have seen friends retire only to have some catastrophic life event that changes your plans,” says Mary.
Looking ahead to retirement, Mary is eager to embrace new opportunities for personal ful llment. “I have taken care of people my whole life, always putting myself second, and I am looking forward to devoting time to the things that I want to do,” says Mary. She hopes to maintain the friendships she has made at Cedar Community, along with more time for reading and exploring her passion for history and architecture through traveling, and cherishing quality time with loved ones.
While Mary prefers the background to the limelight, we couldn’t help but shine a light on her as she embarks on the next chapter by extending our heartfelt gratitude and best wishes.
In celebrating Mary’s remarkable career at Cedar Community, our past and current CEOs each had a special message for her: Very early upon taking on the role of executive director/CEO, it became important for me to hire a secretary. Mary was skilled, articulate, focused, pleasant, and had a great sense of humor! I never had a secretary before and was comfortable doing things myself. I didn’t know what I wanted Mary to do so I invited other administrative executives to utilize her skills. Mary wholeheartedly responded to a much larger challenge with enthusiasm. Mary’s title of secretary was no longer accurate, so I changed it to administrative assistant. She was the “glue” that helped hold together the entire administrative team! Mary willingly took on many sophisticated projects challenged by various administrative execs. Her foray into new technologies was amazing. She never once complained as requests for her help became constant. While her work days became more and more hectic, Mary seemed to always have time to be concerned about others. I sometimes had very tough days, and Mary would walk in my o ce with a large cup of hot co ee and hand it to me with a reassuring smile. I feel honored I was at the beginning of Mary Cummings’ Cedar Community career, and that I have been included to thank her for a job well done as she begins an incredibly well deserved retirement! Mary, enjoy and relax for once!
Steve Jaberg
Mary was the epitome of grace under pressure. Whether it was handling calls from residents or families, organizing a board meeting, or juggling all the administrative team’s schedules, Mary always remained calm and organized. Best wishes in retirement!
Lynn W. Olson
I cannot begin to thank Mary enough for her hard work, professionalism, and commitment to Cedar Community for the past 27 years. I am beyond thankful that she was there as I stepped into the role of CEO; she has been a steadying force and thoughtful guide and teacher for me as I had much to learn. Her positive attitude, kindness, and willingness to jump in to help whenever and wherever needed has been a model for all of our team members. She has been more than just a colleague—she has been a trusted con dante and friend. Mary’s compassionate presence will be greatly missed, but her legacy will undoubtedly be felt by the countless lives she has touched and the impact she has had at Cedar Community. I am eternally grateful for the opportunity to have worked alongside her, and I wish her joy and ful llment as she begins this new adventure. She has earned every moment of this next chapter, and I have no doubt that Mary will embrace it with the same grace and positivity that she has demonstrated throughout her career.
Nicole Pretre
Cedar Community Named One of Senior Care’s Best Places to Work
Cedar Community was recently named one of Senior Care’s Best Places to Work by WeCare Connect—an industry leader in senior care surveys. We are proud to share Cedar Community has met the rigorous benchmarks that signal excellence.
Over 70 years ago, Cedar Community was founded with one gift of land, the tireless efforts of a visionary leader, and thousands of volunteer hours. Over the years, we have grown to be the region’s largest faith-based, not-forprofit senior living community—supporting our friends and neighbors as they enjoy, explore, and embrace their best lives in beautiful Washington County. Our natural settings, faith-based mission, and high-quality services afford older adults the opportunity to live a more purposeful, fulfilled life among family and friends, and create a vibrant environment for team members.
Tracy Blaubach, vice president of human resources, emphasizes that being recognized as a Best Place to Work reflects the exceptional effort of our team. “Our team of champions are dedicated to providing best-in-class care for residents, and this recognition validates their commitment to excellence.”
Pharmacist David Grandinetti Receives Clinical Instructor Excellence Award
Cedar Community congratulates David Grandinetti, pharmD, pharmacist, for receiving the Clinical Instructor Excellence Award from Concordia University School of Pharmacy. The award recognizes David for his exceptional service to the School of Pharmacy and its students as a mentor and role model.
A graduate of Concordia University himself, David has been an integral part of Cedar Community’s pharmacy team for the past three years. Shortly after joining Cedar Community, David reached out to his alma mater, offering to contribute as a preceptor for pharmacy students. In this capacity, David mentors second-, third-, and fourth-year graduate students from the school of pharmacy. The six-week preceptor program provides students with invaluable on-the-job training in a pharmacist role, along with opportunities to engage in diverse projects.
David emphasizes the unique experiences and broad array of opportunities available at Cedar Community compared to traditional pharmacy settings. “Cedar Community provides a vast array of opportunities and unique experiences working in a senior living community versus what you might experience in a traditional pharmacy setting.”
Throughout the year, David hosts students, offering guidance, support, and practical insights into the pharmacy profession. His dedication and commitment have been recognized by his recent graduating students who nominated him for the Clinical Instructor Excellence Award. Thank you, David!
Cedar Community’s marketing team is the recipient of two national Aster Awards for healthcare marketing and advertising for 2024— winning a Gold award for magazine advertising series and a Silver award for website redesign.
The Aster Awards is one of the most prestigious competitions in healthcare marketing and advertising, honoring outstanding professionals who demonstrate excellence and innovation in their marketing efforts. This year, the competition
Cedar Community’s Marketing Team Wins Two 2024 National Aster Awards
U.S. News & World Report Recognizes Cedar Community for Best Independent Living and Best Memory Care
Cedar Community has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a 2024 Best Independent Living and Best Memory Care. The ratings offer a look at the best senior living communities across the United States—assisting older adults and their loved ones when researching and choosing the right senior living community for them.
For its 2024 Best Senior Living ratings, U.S. News rated nearly 3,500 communities on several criteria, including resident and family members’ satisfaction with safety, care, community management and staff, value and other services, and amenities provided by the community.
U.S. News awards the designation of “Best Senior Living” to those communities that satisfy U.S. News’ statistical assessment of performance based on more than 400,000 consumer satisfaction surveys administered in the previous two calendar years. Only the highest-rated communities in each care level earned a “Best” rating.
“Best Senior Living reflects U.S. News’ commitment to helping families navigate the important—albeit time-consuming—decision of researching and choosing a senior living community through trusted, data-backed community ratings,” said Sumita Singh, general manager of Health at U.S. News. “We are proud to recognize those communities that stand out as ‘Best’ by providing exceptional care and satisfaction, as directly expressed by residents and family members of residents who live and thrive in these communities.”
For more information on the U.S. News Best Senior Living, visit health.usnews.com/best-senior-living.
You can also explore Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) using #BestSeniorLiving.
saw a remarkable array of entries. A distinguished panel of industry experts meticulously reviewed each entry, evaluating them based on multiple criteria to achieve a possible perfect score of 100 percent. Participants competed against similarly sized organizations within their specific groups and categories.
Awards were granted to those entries that received top marks from the judges. Gold awards score in the top five percent in the nation and silver awards score in the top 12 percent in the nation for advertising excellence. The
judging criteria included creativity; layout and design; functionality; message effectiveness; and overall quality, appeal, and execution.
The Aster Awards is an elite program recognizing outstanding healthcare professionals for excellence in their advertising and marketing efforts for over 20 years. The winners of the 2024 Aster Awards are listed on the Aster Awards website at asterawards.com/winners.
Cedar Community Champions
Every quarter, Cedar Community recognizes team members who go above and beyond their everyday tasks for our residents, families, volunteers, and their fellow team members. Cedar Community is proud to announce our Team Members of the Quarter award winners.
Nursing Champion
Darlene Hall
Med Tech/CNA/Mentor
How long have you worked at Cedar Community?
13 years
What do you enjoy most about working at Cedar Community?
“Taking care and being a part of the residents’ lives and listening to their stories. It’s a very rewarding career.”
What her colleagues are saying...
“Darlene is an overachiever. The amount of compassion, care, and energy she puts into her role is astonishing. She makes everyone feel appreciated and welcomed.”
Dining Champion
Kayleigh Rowley
Dining Assistant
How long have you worked at Cedar Community?
One year
What do you enjoy most about working at Cedar Community?
“It’s like coming to work to see my grandparents. I have some close connections with residents, and I love talking to all of them.”
What her colleagues are saying...
“Kayleigh steps up and helps ensure residents are getting good service. She picks up additional shifts when needed and works with new sta to get up to speed. She does the little extra things to make sure everyone is satis ed.”
Cedar Community Champion
Mary Cummings
Executive Assistant
How long have you worked at Cedar Community?
27 years
What do you enjoy most about working at Cedar Community?
“Cedar Community is truly a place where one can feel a sense of belonging and the ability to make a di erence in the lives of those we serve.”
What her colleagues are saying...
“Mary is always ve steps ahead in making sure we have what we need. She is always willing to go above and beyond to help.”
Driven by mission. Powered by team.
As the population ages, the demand for quality senior care living options continues to rise. Along with this growth comes opportunities for individuals seeking rewarding careers. The field of senior living offers a wide range of career paths—each with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
“Cedar Community feels like family,” is a comment often heard from residents, families, and team members. We recognize we would not be where we are today, after 70-plus years, without the compassion, dedication, and commitment of our team. A career in senior care is much more than you think—from nursing, social work, rehab, wellbeing, life enrichment, spiritual care, dining, and facility services, to medical records, marketing, financial services, philanthropy, and administration. Every department plays a vital role.
Cedar Community not only recognizes each team member’s contribution to our mission, but also reinforces the sense of purpose, pride, compassion, and dedication within the team— ultimately benefiting the residents and enhancing their quality of life. If you are looking for a career that truly loves you back, we encourage you to learn more about the senior living environment. It’s a career with a purpose. It is meaningful work. It is an opportunity to help families keep the people they love healthy, happy, and safe. Americans are living longer, healthier lives, so opportunity is on the rise in the growing field of supporting older adults.
“
Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.
Many who work at Cedar Community have had opportunities to advance in their career. From today’s job as a caregiver, you can grow to be a certified nursing assistant, a licensed nurse practitioner, a registered nurse, a director, and even an administrator. A job working to provide care and support to older adults is a job that keeps you advancing.
Our Cedar Community team members are the champions and heart of our community— making a difference in the lives of our residents every day! Building positive relationships is what we’re all about. We are a family of team members, residents, resident families, and volunteers. Cedar Community is committed to our team members. We offer more than a paycheck—we offer opportunities for growth and development as well as some unique benefits and perks. Visit our careers pages at cedarcommunity.org to learn more.
BENEFITS & PERKS
MARY WILLIAMS RECOGNIZED AS INFLUENCERS IN AGING AWARD WINNER
Congratulations, Mary Williams, RN, sta development coordinator, nursing assistant instructor, on winning the Judy Phillips In uencers in Aging Award from Interfaith Caregivers of Washington County.
Mary is an advocate for improving the quality of care in our assisted living and skilled nursing. She plays a pivotal role in shaping the culture of excellence Cedar Community is known for. Mary is proactive in identifying areas for improvement and designs and implements comprehensive training programs that empower our team members with the knowledge and skills necessary to continue to deliver exceptional care. In collaboration with her colleagues, she has restarted a mentor program for new team members and brought back the nursing assistant training program.
Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition, Mary!
LEARN MORE ABOUT CEDAR COMMUNITY’S MENTOR PROGRAM!
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BENEFITS AND PERKS CEDAR COMMUNITY OFFERS!
LEARN MORE ABOUT CEDAR COMMUNITY’S CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANT PROGRAM!
Cedar Community is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against otherwise quali ed applicants on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, age, sex, marital status, national origin, genetic information, sexual orientation, disabilities, or veteran status.
Joining our team comes with many bene ts, including working alongside a group of outstanding professionals—champions who are dedicated to serving seniors with compassion, dignity, and determination.
YourHealth
Medical insurance
Maternity leave
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
Basic life insurance
Short-term disability
Long-term disability
Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
Health Savings Account (HSA)
YourFuture
401(k)
Roth IRA
Tuition reimbursement
Scholarship program
Certi ed nursing assistant training
Competitive wages and shift di erentials
Annual wage increases
YourLife
Paid time o
Holiday pay
Financial wellness
Job development and advancement
YourPerks
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Pet insurance
Compassionate care
Perks at Work
Calm App
Referral bonuses
Operation Gratitude
Natural environment with walking trails, natural prairie, and lake access to enjoy
Discounts on self-care services
including personal training, massage, and pampering
Mary Williams, RN
NURSES RECOGNIZED FOR DEDICATION AND DEVOTION TO THEIR FIELD
Cedar Community is honored to announce that Lisa Dieckelman, RN, and Sarah Fuller, RN, have both received PerfectServe’s 2024 Nurses of Note award. The award recognizes outstanding nurses for their determination, leadership, innovation, and commitment to providing the best patient care and highlights their remarkable contributions to their vocation.
As a dedicated registered nurse working within Cedar Community’s continuing care, Lisa embodies the epitome of excellence in nursing practice. Her commitment to enhancing resident and team member care, safety, and professional development sets her apart as a leader in the field.
Lisa transitioned into a new role within Cedar Community, taking on responsibilities in occupational health. Her adaptability and expertise have been instrumental in ensuring the wellbeing of our team members, implementing preventive health measures, and promoting workplace safety. In collaboration with team members, she has implemented a training program for certified nursing assistants. She recognizes the need for skilled, compassionate caregivers and empowers aspiring healthcare professionals to provide quality care to our residents. She also assisted in the development of our mentor program, which is aimed at providing support and guidance to incoming team members. Her dedication to nurturing talent and fostering professional growth has not only strengthened our team, but has also contributed to improved team member retention.
Lisa is currently working toward a wound care certification. Her pursuit of advanced knowledge and skills exemplifies her dedication to delivering the highest standard of care to our residents. “Lisa’s commitment to excellence, along with her compassionate approach to resident and team member care, has left a lasting mark on our community,” says Heather Suarez Del Real, RN, director of nursing. “Her leadership, desire to continuously learn and grow, and her willingness to step in to assist the team with anything needed are examples of how she goes a step above each and every day.”
As a registered nurse and post-acute nurse manager at Cedar Community’s Cedar Lake Health and Rehabilitation Center, Sarah has served our residents, families, and team members in a multitude of capacities for over 28 years. Her dedication to her profession, exemplary leadership skills, and compassionate resident care make her truly exceptional. Sarah’s commitment to nursing excellence is evident in every aspect of her work—consistently going above and beyond to provide exceptional care for residents. Her clinical knowledge, combined with her empathy and compassion, have earned her the respect and admiration of her fellow team members, residents, and families.
Beyond her clinical duties, Sarah is committed to ongoing professional development and education. She seeks to expand her knowledge and skills and stays abreast of the latest advancements and best practices in nursing. Sarah is certified as a dementia specialist and has assisted our skilled nursing facility in obtaining the American Heart Association Post-Acute Care Heart Failure Certification. “Sarah is dedicated to supporting nurses at all levels of experience—serving as a role model and mentor to her fellow team members,” says Heather Suarez Del Real, RN, director of nursing. “In addition to her professional achievements, Sarah is known for her kindness, integrity, and dedication to serving others. She consistently goes above and beyond to make a meaningful difference in the lives of her residents and their families, providing comfort, reassurance, and support during challenging times.”
Lisa Dieckelman, RN
Sarah Fuller, RN
LONGSTANDING COMMITMENT
A TO SERVING SENIORS
Purposeful living and sustainable growth
Cedar Community has grown to be the region’s largest faith-based, not-for-profit senior living community—supporting our friends and neighbors as they enjoy, explore, and embrace their best lives in beautiful Washington County. Woven into Wisconsin’s picturesque Kettle Moraine, Cedar Community has grown to more than 535 acres where we serve over 800 residents, count nearly 400 employees, and welcome more than 300 volunteers. Our natural settings, faith-based mission, and highquality services afford those 55 and better the opportunity to live a more purposeful life.
As our two-year repositioning project draws to a close, we celebrate the physical enhancements created by leveraging existing spaces, rather than opting for new construction. Cedar Community is not just a leader in senior living but also in environmental responsibility. By maintaining and protecting green spaces, Cedar Community ensures future generations can benefit from the beauty of the environment.
We have built on a legacy, serving our current residents while continuing to have a vision for serving future generations. Throughout the many phases of construction, one thing has always remained constant—our commitment to provide a best-in-class experience for all.
Cedar Crossings
Short-term and Outpatient Rehab
Our team of caring professionals and physical rehabilitation experts is dedicated to helping you recover from surgery, illness, or injury in a peaceful and supportive setting. Whether you choose to recover at our state-of-the-art facility, or within the comfort of your own home, you can be confident you’re in good hands with Cedar Community. We’re committed to helping you reach your full recovery potential.
Short-term rehabilitation offers a private room with a private bathroom, as well as access to a new and expanded state-ofthe-art gym, quality dining, outdoor patios, and café. Nursing care is also available 24 hours a day. Inpatient short-term care is a perfect option for those looking to regain full strength and return to their highest level of functioning. When meeting with your healthcare provider, be sure to discuss your options for rehabilitation and your comfort level returning home. To learn more or preregister for
The Willows at Cedar Lake Independent Living Plus
As you turn the page on a new chapter in your life, Cedar Community is here to support you. Our guiding principles and priorities highlight community, “We create a sense of community where older adults, families, and partners can thrive with purpose, dignity, and joy,” welcoming you at every stage of life. Whether you are an active and independent senior, need additional assistance or care, or should your health care needs change over time—we are right here for you.
At Cedar Community you’ll be greeted by a warm and inclusive community of friends, neighbors, and team members ready to embrace you. We are here to make your transition seamless— welcoming you home from the very beginning.
If you’re looking for a vibrant, independent, and active retirement lifestyle with added peace of mind, we invite you to explore Cedar Community’s new independent living plus—The Willows at Cedar Lake. Experience the perfect blend of freedom to live independently with the peace of mind that YOU can add on extra services only when YOU need it.
Cedar Community’s independent living plus lifestyle allows you to actively and safely age in place. Enjoy a private apartment with the convenience of weekly housekeeping and delicious, restaurant-quality meals served daily. Plus, take advantage of a host of other amenities and services designed to enrich your lifestyle. Discover the freedom to age in place on your own terms—where vibrant living meets peace of mind.
Schedule a tour today with Michelle at 262.306.4299.
photo credit to Turner Kraft,
VJS Construction Services
MIKE & SUE KADUNC
A retirement community that checked all the boxes
Mike and Sue Kadunc discovered Cedar Community—a retirement community that met all their criteria, exceeded their expectations, and checked all the boxes on their list. From the moment they toured, they knew it was a perfect t for the retirement lifestyle they were looking for— freedom from the burden of household chores and a desire to embrace an active and socially engaging community through new experiences.
It all began on one frigid wintry day, when Mike walked into the house and said he was done. Done with shoveling. Done with yard maintenance. “Every spring I’d go out in the yard and wonder how it kept getting bigger,” laughs Mike. Sue spent the entire day researching continuum of care communities, some even out of state. They were ready to make a move and wanted their ducks in a row so their daughter would not feel the burden of making that decision for them. A continuum of care was one of their top priorities.
The picturesque and serene setting, independent ranch homes, and variety of activities are what solidi ed their decision to move to Cedar Community in July 2022. The sense of community and friendliness among residents sealed the deal for the Kaduncs, making them feel welcomed and at home from the start. When the Kaduncs rst moved to Cedar Community, they were so impressed by the hospitality of neighbors. Sue laughs, “I said whatever they’re drinking, we want. It’s like the fountain of youth here. People are so active, you would never guess their ages.”
Sue retired in 2017 from the billing and insurance industry. Mike retired from the Waukesha Police Department in 2001, then worked part time as a police o cer, security guard, and even delivered owers before fully retiring in 2020. That’s when he decided he wasn’t working for anybody anymore and focused on volunteering. He was a Meals on Wheels driver for four years in Waukesha. Sue helped at school in the library and with 4-H while her daughter was in school, but with a full-time job was limited on how much volunteering she could t in.
It hasn’t taken the Kaduncs long to get involved at Cedar Community. Sue’s diverse interests from working in the volunteer o ce logging volunteer hours, pontoon boat driver, maple syrup volunteer, and serving on the Village Resident Council showcase her willingness to try new things and be actively involved. During the holidays, Sue shared her expertise and niche for making delicious caramels, which were sold to raise funds to support the Village Resident Council— providing for future events and activities.
Mike also enjoys lending a helping hand as a substitute van driver for Cedar Community, maple syrup volunteer, and treasurer for the SAE Committee (Social Activity & Education). They have also assisted the marketing department during open houses and stepped in as models in publicity photos. (Thank you very much!)
The Kaduncs appreciate how Cedar Community neighbors support and look out for each other. Mike noted how each night their neighbor turns on the ood light on his garage so they can look and know he is okay. That camaraderie and sense of community exempli es the faith-based mission Cedar Community was founded on. “Out of the 85 homes on the Cedar Lake Campus, I have never heard anyone say they don’t like this place,” says Mike.
While Mike is enjoying watching his driveway get plowed and his yard mowed, Sue is happy starting seeds in her sunroom for planting outside. “I am enjoying all the things I never had the time to do when I was working. I am not good at it all, but I am learning as I go.” Sue has many interests, including knitting, which she learned from her father at age ve, baking, scrapbooking, traveling, and reading. She still has some check boxes left for things she would like to do—cleaning veterans’ graves; rocking babies in a hospital nursery; and participating at Cedar Community’s woodshop, ceramics, and stained glass studios.
Mike enjoys walking, crossword puzzles, and knife collecting. Mike’s favorite thing about Cedar Community is the abundance of places to walk—from the winding roadways in his Village neighborhood, to the many miles of trails. “Where we lived in Ottawa we were on the south end of the Kettle Moraine State Forest; now we get to enjoy the north end of the Kettle Moraine.”
Together, they enjoy playing sheepshead— one of the things Sue looked for in a retirement community. “We have never been this social our entire married life as we have been these last two years living at Cedar Community, and we couldn’t be happier,” says Sue. “Cedar Community o ers an opportunity to do as much or as little as you want—the choice is up to you.”
Overall, Cedar Community checked all the boxes for the Kaduncs, o ering not just a place to live but a vibrant and ful lling retirement lifestyle. The Kaduncs have even enjoyed the bene ts of our Passport to Travel program, which enables residents to lodge free of charge at 16 sister communities around the United States. In 2023 they visited Phoenix, Arizona, and this fall they will enjoy the amenities of Concord, New Hampshire.
Becoming a champion for others
Thank you to everyone who sponsored and attended Cedar Community’s 2024 leadership event. The event was an opportunity to connect every leader who aims to lead, inspire, and serve others. Over 350 people attended with the generous support of 28 sponsors.
Lieutenant Brian Murphy, Oak Creek PD (ret.), shared his story as the rst responding law enforcement o cer to Oak Creek’s Sikh Temple on August 5, 2012, when a gunman entered and opened re—killing six and wounding three. Lt. Murphy was shot 15 times in pursuit of the gunman and has been widely recognized for his heroism. He shared his journey of forgiveness and resilience as he embraced the challenges of becoming a public leader and an unexpected “hero.” His raw insights into the personal challenges of leadership in di cult circumstances and service in the line of re de nitely moved the audience.
L NE of f e in the S vice
Watch for information on our 2025 event as we plan for another inspirational evening with a compelling message of positivity, possibility, passion, and perseverance. If you would like to join us as a sponsor, please contact Jenny Zaskowski, philanthropy director, 262.338.4625, for more information.
“Attending this leadership event was an incredibly empowering experience, allowing me to grasp the essence of Lt. Murphy’s inspiring journey. His message focuses on forgiveness, leadership, and the incredible power of maintaining calm under pressure. It will rede ne your perspective on leadership and the strength of the human spirit.
Martha Feucht Delta Defense, LLC
“I was thrilled to join the packed house for this year’s Cedar Community leadership event. It’s inspiring to see so many servant leaders in the community together in one room to connect, share ideas, and get inspired by such a heroic speaker.
Jennifer Sodo
Senior Living Market Leader, Eppstein Uhen Architects
THANK YOU
TO OUR SPONSORS
Sponsorship dollars bene t Cedar Community’s benevolent care fund—Partners In Caring™— which supports the care needs of our community’s low-income assisted living and skilled nursing seniors. For nearly 70 years Cedar Community has championed for the friends and neighbors who call our campuses home—and will continue to do so for future generations.
PLATINUM
JULIE GUNDRUM
BY: Gladys Sachse Resident, Cedar Community Independent Living
Julie Gundrum was born in Milwaukee and grew up on the south side of the city, along with her sister, who is seven years younger. They lived in an upper at that her grandfather built. She graduated from Holy Angels Academy High School and went on to Marquette University, graduating in 1958. Later in 1978, she earned her master’s degree in library science from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee—a dream since she was an avid reader.
Julie has six children, ve girls and a boy—all born within seven years. She also has 12 grandchildren and four greatgrandchildren. Her husband’s job took them to Fort Wayne, Indiana, the rst three years of their married life, before moving back to Wisconsin and living in the West Bend area. After they were empty-nesters they bought a home on Big Cedar Lake, directly across from Cedar Community. She worked with her husband at the Signery Sign Shop they owned in West Bend.
Julie was a stay-at-home mom. When the youngest was in second grade, she was o ered a teaching position at Holy Angels School in West Bend, which she turned down because she was a full-time mom. Eventually, she worked part time in the school library, a position she loved—organizing books, activities, and reading to students. In 1974, she took a job teaching at Holy Angels and was also the library media specialist—teaching library skills for 15 years.
Life changed, the children grew up, and Julie started reading the classi ed ads, which led her to Cedar Community with a job in activities. After four and a half years, there was an opening for a job as the assistant to the manager at the Cedar Ridge Campus. She thought it would not only be a great place to work, but live, and when an apartment became available, she moved in 2001. Julie worked as the front desk receptionist for 18 and a half years. She retired after being employed at Cedar Community for more than 22 years.
While living at Cedar Community, Julie met the love of her life, Herbert. They were married for ten months, both healthy
and eager to begin an active life and travel. Before they could begin their adventures, Herbert needed a knee replacement. Unfortunately, he su ered a serious stroke and spent more than two and a half years in skilled nursing care.
Julie’s family lives nearby, except for one daughter who lives in South Dakota. Julie has been independent for a long time. Her children are very supportive and close—always ready to visit and help. Since the pandemic, Julie keeps in touch with her children through Zoom calls twice a month.
During the pandemic Julie wrote her autobiography, following the website storyworth.com. Each week she wrote a short story following a set questions about people, a time, or a place in her life. After 52 weeks her stories were printed into a book. What a great gift to her family!
Julie is an avid reader and has always loved gardening. She enjoys staying active and participates in yoga and exercise groups. Julie played the piano when she was young and now plays the ukulele as part of the WAUI (West Bend Area Ukulele Initiative) group. The ukulele group plays at many Cedar Community events and in the West Bend area.
A Christmas gift from her children the past few years is a “coupon book” that each month one of her children will take her out to eat at a special place, each taking two months. What a fun way to keep in touch and enjoy some local cuisine!
In the 1980s, Julie and her seven girl cousins decided to plan a vacation together each year. Sometimes they’re gone
for a long weekend, sometimes an adventure somewhere in the United States, and a few times overseas. They’ve been to New York for Broadway musicals. Her family has a strong Irish heritage, so they traveled to Ireland three times. They visited relatives and their family homestead. Again, lives changed and this is no longer possible. Now they Zoom! Julie’s many travels have included Hawaii, Alaska, Nova Scotia, Canada, Austria, Germany, Italy, Venice, The Bahamas, and Mexico.
An interesting get-together is when Julie’s family picnics at a di erent cemetery each year where ancestors or family members are buried. They bring tables, chairs, and food, and spend quality time right there where Grandma or Grandpa is buried.
Anticipating life changes and health issues, Julie realized it was time for another change. She moved from independent living at the Cedar Ridge Campus after 24 years to assisted living this past March. She says too many times she saw where life changed for a resident, and the family had to decide what to do now. Where can Mom or Dad go? Julie is being proactive and doesn’t want to burden her children with those di cult decisions.
Julie is very happy at her new home, making many new friends and being involved in many activities. She and her friends have already organized a social group that meets every Wednesday, and everyone is welcome to attend.
We all know life can change quickly. Congrats, Julie, for deciding on your own terms!
To learn more about how you can become a champion for others, please contact the philanthropy team at 262.338.4625 or visit cedarcommunity.org.
cedarcommunity.org
Cedar Community Establishes Carl Ziegler Endowed Scholarship Fund
Prof. Carl Ziegler (July 19, 1940–April 19, 2021) was a devoted and celebrated educator serving generations of students during his tenure at Indiana UniversityBloomington. He embraced his role not only as educator, but as mentor, proli c letter-writer, and friend. With deep roots in the West Bend and Washington County communities, Carl carried on his family’s legacy of philanthropic support for organizations serving our community. Carl was a faithful friend to and supporter of Cedar Community for many years, giving generous gifts of time and talents on various campus development projects, sharing his treasure as a faithful donor, and o ering his wise and thoughtful leadership as a member of our board of directors. He made an indelible impact on Cedar Community over the course of his life. In his passing, he magni ed that legacy with an incredibly generous gift from his estate. With the guidance of his estate’s trustee and family relative, Ben Schloemer, the Carl Ziegler Endowed Scholarship Fund has been established to support Cedar Community team members in their educational and professional development pursuits.
Cedar Community’s Chief Administrative O cer Sarah Malchow had the privilege of working closely with Ben Schloemer to shape the parameters of the endowed scholarship fund and establish the annual scholarship program and process. “I had the honor of knowing Mr. Ziegler in the later years of his life. When I joined Cedar Community in 2019 as director of philanthropy, Carl was one of my very rst donor visits. Even though retired, he remained a thoughtful mentor and was always willing to share of his time and wisdom. His commitment to Cedar Community was and is inspiring. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to know him and feel fortunate that we are able to honor his legacy in such a way— he would be proud.”
The purpose of the scholarship fund is to support and encourage Cedar Community undergraduate student team members who are continuing their education at an accredited four-year or technical college institution. Additional scholarships are also available for professional team members who are pursuing professional development, continuing education, or graduate degree certi cation. The fund established eight scholarships in total: two undergraduate degree scholarships of $5,000 each; four technical college scholarships of $2,500 each; and two scholarships supporting team members engaged in professional development or advance degree seeking. Qualifying candidates must demonstrate an exemplary work ethic and commitment of compassion and service to their colleagues and residents, should model servant leadership qualities, and will have previously attained strong academic achievement.
In May of this year, the application process was opened to Cedar Community team members employed with the organization for at least 12 months. The formal process included a written essay, documented academic performance in the prior year, letters of recommendation, and an interview. Interviews were conducted by a scholarship selection committee comprised of members of Cedar Community’s Executive and Leadership Councils, including Cedar Community President and Chief Executive O cer Nicole Pretre, along with Ben Schloemer, as representative of the Ziegler trust. In all, 12 individuals completed the application process in this inaugural year.
“I was very impressed not only with the care that went into establishing a variety of meaningful scholarship opportunities, but also of the thoughtfulness of the process and the incredible strength of the candidates,” Schloemer stated. “I learned a lot about the complexities of senior healthcare and also about how much these individuals truly care for the residents they serve. These were tough decisions. The applicants were all deserving.”
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Back row: (l to r) Kelly and Ben Schloemer, Joe Ludke, Brooke Gruen, and Isabelle Gross.
Front row: (l to r) Esteve Redolad, Carl Ziegler (photo), Jordan Vogel, and Rachel Anderson.
Just one of the excellent written essays that was submitted as part of the application process.
“Get me out of here. Can you help me find my way home?” The fear echoed through her voice and sent shivers down my spine. My patient had no idea where she was, why she was here, or what my role meant to her. This is the life of a memory care certified nursing assistant. What did I get myself into?
I’ve been working as a certified nursing assistant at Cedar Community for almost two years. This job has taught me patience but has also delivered heartache and agony. Mostly, it has expanded my love for the lives of others. The life of a CNA requires excessive amounts of diligence on the daily: taking initiative persistently. I’m tasked with making sure patients’ needs are being met, sticking to a schedule, and helping new teammates learn the ropes. I continue to pursue wisdom through those diverse experiences.
Becoming a CNA has been an incredible yet demanding experience that has profoundly shaped my perspective on life. This entire experience and journey has not only equipped me with valuable skills and insights but has also instilled in me determination and resilience. My continual conscientiousness inside and outside of school has been an impactful factor to my success. Reflecting on the unknowns of my future, completing the CNA training course will forever be one of the most substantial decisions I’ve ever made. Furthermore, it will greatly help me chase after my dreams at the University of Wisconsin-Madison or the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.
I am incredibly grateful that I took on this opportunity at Cedar Community.
I never understood how much a single person could impact the lives of others until I became that individual. The healthcare field has always fascinated me, but what makes it stand out the most is the people. However, the healthcare field isn’t the only career that allows individuals to exemplify empathy and compassion. Therefore, my interest in the business field has started to expand drastically after realizing that I am more than capable of taking on challenges to support others.
The act of learning to become a CNA was a challenge, being a CNA is a challenge, and winning in life is a challenge. The most important take-away from my time as a CNA is I will always face challenges in life. I’ve found out I’m brave enough to overcome those challenges through hard work and support from my friends, family, and community. Whether it’s becoming a nurse or starting my own business, my challenges in life have taught me I can!
Having a direct and meaningful impact on the lives of others is one of the greatest feelings in the world. I couldn’t thank Cedar Community enough for giving me this fulfilling experience. I’m enthusiastic about the opportunities college will present me because of this.
Thank you, Brooke Gruen
Undergraduate scholarship winners $5,000 each:
Jordan Vogel: Jordan will be a rising junior at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee this fall and is majoring in health services management with minors in both finance and leadership. Jordan works as a certified nursing assistant with Cedar Community’s long-term care residents and takes great pride in being truly resident-focused— choosing to go above and beyond for her residents as she provides compassionate daily cares. Jordan’s grandparents were residents here at Cedar Community, and she is looking forward to the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others and in healthcare operations as her chosen vocation.
Brooke Gruen: Brooke will be a rising freshman this fall at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and intends to major in healthcare administration. She also works as a certified nursing assistant with Cedar Community’s longterm care residents and appreciates having a positive impact on the people she serves and the team members she works with. Brooke believes that every opportunity is a learning opportunity— even failures—and she is looking forward to merging her interests in healthcare and business for the good of others.
Professional development scholarship winners up to $5,000 each:
Joseph Ludke: Joe is part of Cedar Community’s amazing life enrichment and wellbeing teams and is beloved by his colleagues and residents alike across our assisted living and skilled nursing campuses. Joe’s easy wit and dedication to resident health and wellness are a blessing to those he serves. His goal is to continue to grow his skills in the area of kinesiology and to help residents retain and expand mobility as he grows his career here at Cedar Community.
Esteve Redolad: You may hear Esteve before you see him as he is known to sing his way through the day as part of Cedar Community’s spiritual care team. Esteve serves residents of our long-term care and rehab units. After 25 years in the pastoral ministry, Esteve is excited to continue his professional growth by pursuing additional clinical experience that will help him serve our very special friends and neighbors.
Technical college scholarship winners—$2,500 each:
Rachel Anderson: A student at Moraine Park Technical College, Rachel works as a certified nursing assistant and feels very fulfilled in her work with residents who are suffering from dementia. She enjoys spending quality time with them to put them at ease and provide cares in a compassionate and loving way—supporting families as well. Recently Rachel was very involved in Cedar Community’s Champion Committee—a recruitment effort spearheaded by our human resources team. Rachel is also involved in our mentoring program and is considering pursuing her licensed practical nurse degree this year. We are grateful for Rachel’s contributions to our Cedar Community team!
Isabelle Gross: Isabelle joined the Cedar Community team two years ago as a dining assistant and is currently studying at Moraine Park Technical College with an intent to eventually earn her Bachelor of Science in nursing at a local university. Having overcome some significant challenges to achieve her current success, Isabelle is highly focused on providing very thoughtful and personalized care and attention to our residents in her work. Her experiences as a patient have reinforced her desire to work in the healthcare field, and she is proud and thankful that Cedar Community is part of her journey.
Aubrey Magray: (not pictured) Aubrey is a server at our Top of the Ridge Restaurant and shows the greatest care and concern to every dining guest—as well as to her teammates. After some key staff departures, Aubrey stepped up to take on additional responsibilities with grace and joy. Aubrey’s extremely close relationship with her grandmother, June, helped influence her interest in the medical field, and she is pursuing certification as an electrocardiogram technician at Milwaukee Area Technical College.
Isabelle Stuebing: (not pictured) Issy, as her team members and residents call her, is also a server at the Top of the Ridge Restaurant. She also stepped forward to take on additional responsibilities and can be counted on to do whatever the service shift needs—with humor and enthusiasm. Issy loves serving our residents and is pursuing her respiratory therapy certification at Milwaukee Area Technical College.
Congratulations to the recipients of the 2024 Carl Ziegler Scholarships!
Cedar Valley, a property owned by Cedar Community, is managed by United Church Camps, Inc. (UCCI). UCCI hosts camps, retreats, and events at three sites: Cedar Valley, Daycholah Center (on Green Lake), and Moon Beach (near St. Germain). Browse events and register online at ucci.org. These sacred places are for your enjoyment and spiritual renewal.
Join us f a gla of lemonade
Do you remember when summer brought pop-up lemonade stands all around the neighborhoods—a time when it turned an ordinary street corner into a community gathering place? I bet for some it even came at a bargain price of just a few pennies. Times sure have changed—and not only for lemonade.
Jenny Zaskowski Philanthropy Director
Starting in 1879 on the bustling streets of New York City, the story of lemonade stands is ingrained in the fabric of American entrepreneurial tradition. Beyond selling drinks, lemonade stands have inspired charity and ultimately served many well-deserved causes. Although lemonade stands symbolized a refreshing escape from the summer heat, it was an opportunity to partake in a unique experience while putting others rst.
Although today we see these stands less frequently, I sure loved seeing eager children jumping for joy as you approached their corner stand. Most often you are greeted with a homemade sign and a smile, someone giving a fresh stir to the lemonade, and a team working together to make the change from your crisp dollar bills. I bet there were times you purchased an extra glass to support their cause or even said to keep the change. This simple interaction was an opportunity to experience the combination of enterprise and idealism that would power philanthropy in our communities for years to come.
I think of our annual Partners In Caring™ campaign as a grown-up lemonade stand. It was a vision that began in 1979 to proudly help serve our friends and neighbors whose resources have run short—a time for the community to come together and support one another. At Cedar Community, we continue to lean on the foundational principles and skills of a lemonade stand with vital elements such as thoughtful nancial stewardship, marketing, community engagement, and being innovative under di cult circumstances. Your philanthropy team delivers quality service with a robust and joyful work ethic, we steward your gifts, and we have a laser focus on how services and funds can help better the lives of others.
Lemonade stands have made a lasting impact since the 1800s. As a nonpro t organization, thank you for helping others to enjoy the lemonade even if they don’t have the means to purchase it themselves. Cedar Community continues to provide $3-4 million on an annual basis to support seniors who can no longer a ord the cost of their assisted living or skilled nursing care. Thank you for helping them to call Cedar Community home. Next time you enjoy a glass of lemonade, remember its original function and the valuable lessons it continues to teach us. Our ask of you today is to encourage your friends and neighbors to join you in creating an even greater impact.
To learn more about how you can impact the lives of others, please contact me at
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262.338.4617
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