Voices-Fall 2023

goins on

lost my Dad, Rev. Ted W. Goins, Sr., on June 27, 2023. He lived a life of service for 92 years, and he died a good death, at peace and surrounded by his family. His funeral was held at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Dallas, NC, presided over by their Pastor John Spencer, Bishop Tim Smith, and Bishop Emeritus Leonard Bolick. All three did a beautiful job of sharing the Gospel and sharing Dad’s life and times.

One might ask why that has anything to do with Lutheran Services Carolinas? That has everything to do with LSC. As a faithbased nonprofit, we are all about relationships where it is impossible to separate work and personal. It’s all personal; it’s all vocation, a calling.

Dad served five congregations during his 67 years as an ordained minister beginning

By Ted W. Goins, Jr. | LSC president

It’s a calling

in 1956. It is no surprise that every one of his congregations was represented at his funeral. Susan and Jim Hayes came from St. John’s Lutheran, Concord. In a note they shared, “Your Dad had a joy and peace about him that could only have come from a total and complete trust in God. What a powerful witness he was in his earthly life!”

He was a powerful witness, and a powerful example. Growing up, if a neighbor was hauling hay, he’d tell us to hurry and finish supper so we could go help before it rained. We went to help a church member harvest corn when he was sick. He came across a neighbor who had been attacked and left for dead; he called 911,

then laid down beside her and recited the Lord’s Prayer with her till the ambulance arrived. Dad supported Lenoir-Rhyne, Southern Seminary, Lutheridge, and LSC his whole adult life. He visited my Mother in the memory care neighborhood almost every single day for over four years. Dad was a powerful example for his congregation, community, and family.

Dad shaped me.  If I can be half the person he was, I’ll be happy. His focus on God’s love for all, service to the least of these, influences LSC and me today. That’s what the death of my Dad has to do with LSC.

Who is your Rev. Ted W. Goins, Sr? Who has inspired you to vocation, to your calling in work and life? If they are still alive, call them today. If not, say a prayer for them and be that witness for someone else. Peace.

LSC to open independent living apartments in

utheran Services Carolinas (LSC) is excited to announce it is adding faith-based, nonprofit, and reasonably priced independent living senior apartments in Hickory, North Carolina.

The project will begin with 72 one-andtwo-bedroom apartments on Springs Rd. on the campus of Trinity Village.

LSC has served the Catawba County area for over 60 years with Hickory’s two premier health care communities, Trinity Village and Trinity Ridge, providing skilled care, rehab, memory care, and assisted living. LSC is also a founder and partner in the vital PACE At

LSC launches new Day Services for Youth Program in South Carolina

LSC is excited to announce the opening of its new Day Services for Youth Program in South Carolina. Through a partnership with the South Carolina Department of Social Services, the program offers foster youth a safe place to learn and grow during the day.

LSC Business Developer Rachael Fulmer said the goal is to get kids into a healthy, safe learning environment where they can thrive. The Department of Social Services reached out to many providers and asked if any organizations were interested in piloting a program, and LSC answered the call.

“We are so excited about the opportunity to partner with SC DSS on a new initiative,” LSC Executive Director of Community and Rehabilitative Services Bethany Vause said. “This program not only fills a void in the child welfare system, but also in the lives of the children and youth served. I couldn’t be more thrilled about this program.”

The program is in a renovated space at Reformation Lutheran Church in Columbia, South Carolina. The church has been an integral partner of LSC over the years and provides space for the LSC New Americans Program Columbia office.

“We are grateful for our long-standing partnership with Reformation Lutheran Church. Pastor (Leroy) Cannon was enthusiastic about helping youth in foster care in a space that was underutilized,” Fulmer said. “We worked closely with the church to get the building renovated and turned around quickly in time for summer. It’s a great opportunity and a great space.”

The Day Services for Youth Program is open year-round, five days a week. The program will provide meals for youth,

education support, life skills, and space for online learning.

It also has space for fun with art projects, games, air hockey, cornhole, and a badminton area.

“We’ve got a variety of activities that can occupy their time and enrich their minds. We want them to feel comfortable and supported,” Fulmer said. “We have spaces to hang out, a kitchen and laundry area to work on vocational skills like meal prep and laundry, and a supportive staff.”

Myra Griffie, vice president of LSC child and family services, said the program is a true collaboration between LSC and the South Carolina Department of Social Services.

“We worked hard to open the doors quickly to provide a safe environment for youth in crisis. I am so proud of our South Carolina team and this exciting new opportunity to serve our community,” Griffie said.

LSC announces additions to its leadership team

LSC recently announced a reorganization of its leadership team. With the reorganization, LSC President Ted Goins named one chief operating officer for the entire organization, three vice presidents, a chief information officer, and a chief administrative officer.

LSC is happy to announce that Kesha Smith, formerly chief operating officer of senior services, has accepted the position of chief operating officer for the entire organization. In this position, Smith will provide management and oversight for LSC senior services and child and family operations. Smith holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She is a licensed nursing home

administrator and a licensed real estate broker. Smith joined LSC in 2003 and served as special projects coordinator, operations coordinator, and chief administrative officer before being named chief operating officer of senior services in 2013.

To coincide with Smith’s new role, LSC also named three vice presidents. Myra Griffie is now vice president for child and family services, Courtney Johnson was named vice president for senior services, and Mary Beth Lemly is vice president for teammate services.

Griffie provides management and oversight for LSC child and family services. Griffie began her career with LSC in 2003 as clinical coordinator for Charlotte foster

care and group homes before becoming vice president for programs and later senior vice president for quality and risk management. Griffie holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and a master’s degree in social work from the University of South Carolina. Similarly, Johnson will provide oversight for LSC senior service operations. Johnson holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in communication sciences and disorders from the University of New Hampshire. She is a speech-language pathologist and nursing home administrator. Johnson joined LSC in 2013 and served as a nursing home administrator and director of business development before being named vice president of senior

Kesha Smith

Myra Griffie

Courtney Johnson

services.

Lemly will provide oversight of the new teammate services area for Lutheran Services Carolinas. Lemly is a licensed nursing home administrator and assisted living administrator with 30 years of experience in long-term care management. She is also a North Carolina-qualified activity director and a licensed real estate broker. Lemly joined LSC in 2014 as the executive director for the Trinity Elms Campus in Clemmons. She moved to the LSC Administrative Office in 2021 serving as operations coordinator and director of strategic systems before being named vice president of teammate services.

Mary Glidewell will become chief information officer and Christina Joyce will

Hickory, from page 2

Home program, serving Medicaid/Medicare-eligible elders in their own home.

These apartments will allow LSC to serve the entire continuum for elders in the area.

become chief administrative officer. Glidewell, former director of information technology, will retain oversight of LSC’s IT department. Glidewell holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Catawba College, and a master’s degree in business administration from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke. Glidewell originally started her career with LSC working in the business office at Trinity Oaks health and rehab in 1996 to cover for a maternity leave. After that job ended, she returned to LSC in 1997. She has served as Business Office manager at Trinity Oaks health & rehab, software support, and systems analyst, before becoming director of information technology.

In her new position, Joyce will lead organization-wide administrative efforts and research projects for LSC. Joyce holds a bachelor’s degree in business management with a concentration in finance from North Carolina State University. She joined LSC in 2007 and served as senior accountant, executive director of Trinity Living Center, director of community-based services for Trinity at Home/Trinity Living Center, and director of administration before being named chief administrative officer in 2023.

“Please join me in welcoming all of these teammates to their new roles and lift them up in prayer that they help lead LSC as we continue to grow and prosper in our Mission, Vision, and Values,” Goins said.

“For many years Catawba County friends have asked LSC for senior apartments in Hickory,” LSC President and CEO Ted Goins said. “From Ecclesiastes, ‘For everything there is a season,’ and this is our season.”   Limited services in the independent living

apartments will include an emergency call system, housekeeping services, activities, concierge case management services, meals, and a wellness program.

Construction on the apartment complex is set to begin in October 2023.

Mary Beth Lemly

Mary Glidewell

Christina Joyce

LOYAL SERVICE AWARD winners

SC is excited to announce seven Loyal Service Award winners for 2023!

Each year, LSC honors teammates who fulfill its mission by serving clients and residents in an extraordinary way. Nominated by their peers and supervisors, Loyal Service Award winners lead by example. In short, they are the heart and soul of LSC.

Congratulations to the following winners:

ROSEMARY CANTERO, CNA, ASTON PARK

Cantero has been a teammate at Aston Park for almost 24 years. Her peers say she demonstrates great leadership skills by mentoring new teammates to help ensure they know the proper techniques and understand the residents’ needs. She makes sure the new teammates feel welcome and part of the team.

Residents view Cantero as a compassionate caregiver who pays attention to details and meets their needs in a professional manner. Teammates see her as a leader who can help them during orientation and beyond.

She is involved in the Micronesian community in the area and works with them as they acclimate to the United States while maintaining valuable Micronesian culture in their community. She has also arranged dance groups and made Micronesian food for other teammates and residents to improve relationships and understanding of their culture.

REBECCA LEDESMA, RESTORATIVE AIDE, TRINITY VILLAGE

During her 19 years of service to Trinity Village, Ledesma has shown leadership by being a great trainer to the community’s resident care assistants, teaching them job duties and requirements. She always promotes a positive atmosphere and working environment by being an active member of the Employee Engagement Committee and being a go-to person for her teammates when they need assistance.

Ledesma enjoys making a difference in residents’ health and quality of life. She is very involved and engaged in her job and takes pride in making the building a positive, compassionate, and happy environment. Her actions, smile, and body lan-

guage, along with her enthusiastic attitude display a labor of love for those she encounters and serves each day.

MARANDA KING, LPN/PHYSICIAN LIAISON, TRINITY RIDGE

King has had many titles during her 19 years at Trinity Ridge including CNA, CNA II, LPN, and physician liaison. She is currently working to get her RN License.

She is respected by everyone and has demonstrated every one of LSC’s core values. When questions arise, everyone knows King will have the answer. Teammates say she is always willing to go the extra mile, and when she is present, you can feel the joy and positivity in the air.

King says she sees her residents as her family and loves to see them smile every day when she comes to work. This is not just a job to her, but a blessing to know she has touched someone’s heart and made a difference in their day.

ESONIA MERRIMAN, NURSING ASSISTANT, TRINITY PLACE

Merriman has demonstrated leadership every day in her nine years at Trinity Place by providing excellent care to residents. She is quiet, but a very strong leader because her approach is leading by example.

She is a strong mentor for onboarding new teammates and a wonderful role model to have. Residents view her as a steadfast, dedicated, and compassionate caregiver. She connects to people easily with her warm, easy-going demeanor. And she has a servant’s heart and is always willing to assist others.

PATTY MESSICK, PROGRAM DIRECTOR, TRINITY LIVING CENTER

A key component of Messick’s job as program coordinator is to be the leader when the director is not on site. She has done an excellent job ensuring that the center runs efficiently, and the team has everything that participants need to have a great day during her nine years of service.

Messick’s passion for TLC is demonstrated by her desire to always go above and beyond. She is always willing to come in early, stay late, or help in any way that will

make things run smoothly. She is dedicated and dependable.

Messick gets pride and satisfaction from helping others shine. She will often say she is happiest when teammates have everything they need. She also has a passion for providing clients with an abundant life while they are at the center. She says it gives her life meaning and purpose.

KATHY SERIO, DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES, CHILD & FAMILY

Serio has been a dedicated teammate to LSC for 16 years. Throughout her tenure, she has worn multiple hats with her role evolving and encompassing more and more responsibility over time. She leads by example and holds herself to the highest standard of excellence in performing her duties.

Her experience working with so many different programs has given Serio a unique perspective and ability to relate to teammates at every level. She gives her all in each task and encourages others to strive for excellence as well. Her teammates call her the Energizer Bunny because she keeps everything going. She never backs down from a challenge or the opportunity to solve a problem.

ELAINE STORY, ADMISSIONS COORDINATOR, TRINITY PLACE

In her 23 years with Trinity Place, Story has demonstrated leadership through her commitment and dedication. She initially began as a 4-H volunteer and then began her career at the senior living community while she was in high school. She left for a brief period but returned in the 1990s.

Story empowers others so they have the confidence to become leaders in their roles. She respects and appreciates all departments and is great at communication and collaboration. She is a constant role model at Trinity Place and takes great pride in the LSC vision and core values.

Residents view Story as a supportive resource willing to go that extra mile to make sure they are comfortable and happy. She creates a warm, hospitable environment with a welcoming smile, and her love for Trinity Place is felt by all.

don’t want to look back.’

Carl N’ Drama finds new home in South Carolina

Prudenciel George Carl N’Drama says he wants to thank all Americans for helping him find his freedom.

The 53-year-old refugee from Ivory Coast has only been in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina for a few months, but has already secured a job and a place to live with the help of the LSC New Americans Program.

“I want to thank all the people of this country. I thank all of the American people for giving me the opportunity to be here,” Carl N’Drama said.

Ivory Coast, also known as Côte d’Ivoire, officially the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, is a

country on the southern coast of West Africa. Carl N’ Drama, who speaks French, felt he needed to leave when he started feeling unsafe, always looking over his shoulder.

With the help of the United Nations, he found himself in Myrtle Beach. He said he has found his second family in the LSC teammates.

“I can say you (LSC) are very good people. I’m talking about the moral support they provide me. When I first came here, I had a low morale and they were able to talk to me, advise me, and increase my morale for my self-confidence,” he said. “So, I appreciate

the work that they do, and I thank them for doing it for me.”

He added that the people of Myrtle Beach are very welcoming, and he has two part-time jobs lined up to help him become self-sufficient.

He doesn’t feel the need to look over his shoulder anymore. He is free.

“I can say that I’m free because I am in the land of freedom. Generally, the United States is considered as the land of freedom. I feel free in this country,” Carl N’ Drama said. “I don’t want to look back. I want to live life to its fullest.”

‘I

Pictured is Carl N’ Drama (left) with Jodie Shuster, area manager for the LSC New Americans Myrtle Beach office.

‘I used to pick the grapes, and now I can drink the wine’

Ivan Cruz debuts painting at Trinity Oaks

While growing up in Mexico, Ivan Cruz admired the art in the gallery windows, but he knew he could never afford to buy a piece. So, when he moved to Salisbury, North Carolina he started painting his own instead.

“I like to paint. I always admired art since I knew about art. I realized it’s something that I can do,” Cruz said. “I don’t have any training, just something that I like to do and I’m learning as I practice. The more I paint the better they become.”

He’s been perfecting his painting skills since 2002, but only recently decided to share his works with the world during an exhibition at Trinity Oaks after sparking a friendship with resident Garry Watkins.

FROM MEXICO TO SALISBURY

Cruz grew up in the south part of Mexico. He is the oldest of eight siblings, so his job was to take care of the younger ones. That meant sharing a bed with them as well, since the family lived in a small home.

But he didn’t know he was poor until he began high school.

“A lot of kids would eat at restaurants on breaks. They asked me to go eat, but I didn’t have any money,” Cruz said. “So, they said, ‘Oh you are poor.’”

He dreamed about getting a higher education after high school, but quickly learned that the expense was too much. He always thought that if he got a job, he could pay for school. But that wasn’t the case. His paycheck barely covered his food and bills. There wasn’t any left for books and the bus fare to get to school.

He began learning English when he took a job as a dishwasher at a hotel in Acapulco.

“I started listening to people who were speaking English. I knew I could get a better job if I knew English,” he said. “So, I started taking English classes at churches in the evening.”

Then Cruz heard that if he came to the United States, he could make more money doing the same jobs as in Mexico. He formed a new dream and set his mind to getting here, which he finally achieved at the age of 19.

“It took me almost a year. I would work in one town and immigrate to the next town. When I finally got to the U.S., my uncle who was already here helped me establish a job in California picking grapes. So, I worked in the fields for 3 years,” Cruz said. “It’s funny how I used to pick the grapes and now I can drink the wine.”

When his uncle went back to Mexico, Cruz moved to Ohio where he learned he had more family. After realizing that he wasn’t made for Ohio winters, he connected with family in Concord, North Carolina and moved there to work in a chicken processing plant. It was there he met his wife, and the couple had two children together.

He eventually bought a house in Salisbury while working jobs in construction. From there he got an apprenticeship at Central

Piedmont Community College to start a career installing fire sprinkler systems. When he began traveling for work, he spent the time in his hotel rooms painting.

A FRIENDSHIP ACROSS CULTURES

Watkins and Cruz fatefully met while attending a Christmas concert.

“Ivan was among the people there at the concert, and I have always been attracted to other cultures, so I started asking questions,” Watkins said. “Then my wife (the late Carol Watkins) and I invited him to a Christmas party we had, and the friendship just grew.”

At first, the friendship was about sharing stories with one another. Watkins was fascinated with learning as much as he could after Cruz told him that in Mexico his family would burn their house down every two years and build another one when scorpions infested it.

Eventually, Cruz invited Watkins over to his house, which is covered with his paintings.

See Grapes on page 10

Be The Light

LSC celebrates campaign progress at NC Synod Assembly

gent Goins? Listen closely — I’ve got a mission for you…”

Secret agents turned superheroes and villains set the scene as LSC shared an update about the Be The Light campaign during the NC Synod Assembly in June.

Agent Goins, also known as LSC President Ted Goins, joined with members of the LSC development team and volunteers to express their gratitude and appreciation for the success of the campaign over the last two years, announcing the amount raised to date by the Be The Light campaign in North Carolina: $2,394,606.

As LSC is in its final year of the “congregational phase” of the campaign, Goins asked attendees and their congregation to further this incredible work and sign up to run a Be The Light appeal before the close of December 2023. The response was exciting!

Since the beginning of the campaign, LSC has been able to share current updates, toward the $4.2million goal, with donors about how their gifts are being put to work almost immediately as a part of the campaign.

The proceeds of the campaign to date have accomplished the following:

• Created a statewide foster care recruitment program

• Purchased mobile technology for foster care caseworkers

Grapes, from page 9

“It’s beautiful work, very colorful abstract. I was drawn to the color, then I realized that each piece was saying something. It’s not just a mass of colors, it’s his interpretation of whatever he is painting,” Watkins said. “He paints large, and he paints small. And he’s been very closeted about it and never showing his work. But once I saw it, I knew there was potential and there were other friends that had seen it and we’ve all encouraged him to start showing his work.”

• Established the 24/7 home to care for adults with brain injuries

• Created a new integrated model of care for clients with brain injuries

• Grew the number of host families to care for adults with brain injuries or intellectual disabilities

• Purchased of the first of two “Welcome Houses” that will provide temporary housing for newly arriving new Americans (refugees).

What is yet to come:

• Purchase of the second “Welcome House” in the Raleigh region for new Americans

• Assistive Technology and equipment for individuals with brain injuries or intellectual disabilities

• Establishing a permanent residency and citizenship legal fund for refugees and

With the support of Watkins and his other friends, Cruz agreed to be featured in the Trinity Oaks art exhibition series. His pieces were well received by residents at the reception, and LSC New Americans Program Community Engagement Coordinator Quinn Rizzo. She was the first person to purchase one of his paintings.

“I call it abstract art because I can paint something that doesn’t look exactly realistic, but there are some things that might be. The shape might be realistic, but have different colors,” Cruz said. “There are people who

immigrants.

To learn more about the Be The Light campaign or to help us reach our goal, go to https://lscarolinas.net/be-the-light/.

In addition to celebrating and expressing gratitude to those who have participated in the campaign, President Ted Goins joined Intentional Interim CEO of NovusWay Dick Peterson back on stage to announce LSC’s $1 million investment in NovusWay, a four-site Christian camp and conference ministry that offers youth summer camp and year-round retreats.

LSC Board of Trustees approved the investment which will transfer the ownership of the leased land occupied by Trinity View to LSC. This also gives LSC the option for a future purchase of up to three acres for future expansion of Trinity View.

see different things in them. So, I leave it to their own interpretation. When you see people trying to figure out what it is, I enjoy that.”

When he isn’t painting, Cruz is running his own business. It’s called ACS Service that helps the Hispanic community connect with resources. He also works with that community to teach them how to build credit so they can purchase their own homes.

He’s also working to build his mother and family a home in Mexico. The walls of that home are adorned with his paintings.

Pastor Mary and Wade Finklea receive Spirit of Giving Award

LSC development teammates attended and assisted in the planning of the 2023 Association for Christian Fundraising (ACF) Faith & Fundraising Conference in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

During the conference, LSC board member and spouse, Pastor Mary and Mr. Wade Finklea, were presented with the Spirit of Giving Award. The award recognizes people who exemplify generous contributions and service with no desire for recognition.

Pastor Mary and Wade Finklea have been strong supporters of LSC for over 16 years.

Pastor Mary Finklea has a long history of encouraging others to give generously, not only to LSC but to other Lutheran and non-Lutheran organizations in her community. She was the campaign chair of the Love One Another capital campaign for LSC which resulted in raising over $1.2 million to expand and enhance programs for children, families, and adults across South Carolina. She invited others to join her in supporting the campaign through presentations, hosting events, and sermons.

Mary Finklea shared previously that she appreciates how LSC goes where the needs are in the world. It makes her proud knowing what it means to be a follower of Jesus, she knows he always goes where the needs are and this mission is important to her. She

likes knowing that the wider community sees LSC as a reminder of the Lutheran faith in action.

Her call is with the South Carolina Lutheran Retreat Centers (SCLRC) as the community and congregation engagement coordinator. Mary brings a wealth of knowledge to the SCLRC’s ministry. She serves as a connection between local congregations and the ministries of Camp Kinard and Coastal Retreat.

“Mary and Wade touch the lives of so many people by saying yes to the call to serve,” LSC President and CEO Ted Goins said. “They wholeheartedly believe in the mission of serving God’s people through the talents and time He has provided them.”

Mary and Wade Finklea, along with their numerous pets live in Florence, South

Carolina. She is a graduate of Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary and served 12 years as the pastor of Cross and Crown Lutheran Church, Florence, SC.

Wade Finklea, grew up in Pamplico, South Carolina a small town in southeastern Florence County. He spent his entire life rooted in the Christian faith and spent time in the Baptist Church as well as the Catholic Church. These roots led him to the Lutheran Church and helped him feel right at home with his new church family. He attended Clemson University and graduated with degrees in textile chemistry and civil engineering.

Both Wade and Mary Finklea were drawn to LSC after hearing a presentation about the LSC New Americans Program.

LSC DEVELOPMENT WINS CREATIVITY AWARD FOR VIDEO

The LSC Development Team also won the Creativity Award at the conference for its 12 Days of Christmas video. The song was performed by the Trinity Oaks quartet and featured videos and photos from all of LSC’s programs.

The award recognizes excellence in inspiring, inventive work, and includes a $500 cash prize.

Investing in the future

LSC strengthens partnership with NovusWay

LSC is excited to announce its over $1 million investment in NovusWay, a four-site Christian camp and conference ministry that offers youth summer camp and year-round retreats.

LSC’s Board of Directors recently approved

an investment in NovusWay of $1,050,000, which will transfer the ownership of the leased land occupied by Trinity View to LSC. This also gives LSC the option for a future purchase of up to three acres for future expansion of Trinity View.

The relationship between Trinity View and NovusWay goes back more than 30 years, as both organizations have sought to cooperate to provide a shared ministry across the genera-

See Investing on page 15

Trinity Oaks Retirement Community turns

Trinity Oaks Retirement Community has been serving residents from Rowan County and across the country for 30 years.

After Lutheran Home at Trinity Oaks, now Trinity Oaks health and rehab opened in 1972, the LSC board began to dream of building independent living apartments and cottages on the campus to provide stability to the nursing home.

At the time, LSC President Ted Goins was training to become a nursing home administrator.

“We had acres of property covered in trees. The dream was to provide a more abundant living for people, especially for the residents in the nursing home because it was government-funded,” Goins said. “I bought into that philosophy in 1982, and it’s still the philosophy of LSC today.”

Trinity Oaks Retirement Community officially opened to do just that in 1993. With Lutheran Home at Trinity Oaks, the campus became the ministry’s first

continuing care retirement community (CCRC). The Trinity Oaks apartments opened in 1993 and the cottage community was built from 1998 until 2004. Trinity Oaks added its secured memory care program, the Virginia Casey Center, in 2007. One year later, it expanded its common, dining, and wellness areas.

“Trinity Oaks did exactly what the board and staff envisioned,” Goins said. “It provided more people with independent living and strengthened the nursing home industry.”

Trinity Oaks celebrated its 30th anniversary this year with an outdoor BBQ event for its residents. During the event, Trinity Oaks Executive Director Bill Johnson said that he is proud to be part of LSC, which had the foresight to build a CCRC in Salisbury, North Carolina.

“I am fortunate and blessed to have been with Trinity Oaks for 17 years and it has been the pinnacle of my 37 years in senior health care. It is rewarding to be somewhere in Rowan County and meet people who have been served at Trinity Oaks,” Johnson said. “We continue to welcome new residents from all over the United States, and what a joy it is to see them integrate into Trinity Oaks. Our teammates and residents treat each other like family. We are here for each other. I look forward to seeing how Trinity Oaks evolves over the next 10 years.”

“The Trinity Oaks teammates have taken the ball and run, and they’ve created a culture of hospitality with few rivals in the country. And it’s all built on the vision, mission, and values of Lutheran Services Carolinas,” Goins said. “It is humbling to retell this story after seeing it unfold, from a dream of a few to a ministry that has served thousands of residents, their families, teammates, the community, and the state for now 30 years.”

Trinity Grove celebrates anniversary 12th

Trinity Grove in Wilmington, North Carolina celebrated its 12th anniversary this year with a luau for residents and families.

LSC was awarded a certificate of need to construct the senior living community in New Hanover County in 2007 and admitted its first two residents on June 6, 2011.

Trinity Grove offers rehabilitation, skilled nursing, and specifically memory care.

“Being a part of this celebration with so many current and former residents and family members is a blessing for us all as it truly shows the meaning of extended family. You can look around the crowd and see how much enjoyment this brings to all in attendance,” Administrator Ed Parrish said. “I am honored to be a part of the continued annual celebrations that Trinity Grove has done since its beginning. Come join us next June for year 13!”

LETTER :

This letter was sent to Trinity Place in Albemarle from the family of former resident Eva Stein Miller.

The family of Eva Stein Miller acknowledges with deep appreciation your kind expression of sympathy.

You may have gotten her coffee many

times of the day or night or helped get her dressed.

You may have given her medication or cleaned her room and made her bed, or prepared and delivered her meals. Or redirected her when she was lost. Or joked, laughed and offered a smile. Or given her a bath.

You may have comforted her when she was anxious or scared, or held her hand during her last days, or watched her take her last breath.

We appreciate the years of care you gave my beautiful Granma Eva.

Thank you!

— Love, Cheryl Edwards

‘They are part of our family.’ Ukrainian family finds new home in South Carolina

Note: This interview was conducted with the help of interpreter Yevheniia Bazaliy

The Mazurs, a Ukrainian family now living in South Carolina with the help of the LSC New Americans Program, say they can see God in their sponsors, Chuck and Wynelle Middlebrooks.

“It’s a miracle. When people ask me how you came here, it’s like a fairy tale,” Olga Mazur said. “God brought me and my family by His hand and pulled me from Ukraine to here. He prepared everything, from small things to biggest.”

The family is adjusting to their new life in Columbia, South Carolina after arriving 9 months ago. The Middlebrooks, along with a Circle of Welcome from Chapin Baptist Church, have been there to support the Mazurs every step of the way.

“They are part of our family. They care about us, support us, and they’re our blessings,” Olga Mazur said. “They are really people from God. We see God’s love in them.”

Finding their way to South Carolina

Alex and Olga Mazur along with their three children, Ilia, Kate, and Vicki, knew they had to evacuate when Russian forces bombed a military airport near their hometown, Khmelnytskyi. The family became nervous that the nuclear power plant near their home could become a target.

“We also saw our friends, their house was destroyed,” Olga Mazur said. “All of our relatives from around the world started to call us and tell us we needed to go somewhere.”

They decided to go to Moldova to live with Alex Mazur’s mother. At the time, they thought they would be there for a few weeks and then be able to move back home.

But the war dragged on, and Olga Mazur moved with her children to Switzerland, while Alex Mazur stayed behind and continued working as a computer engineer for the local school system. At this point, Ukraine was under martial law, and able-bodied men weren’t allowed to leave.

Eventually, Alex Mazur was able to leave Ukraine and join his family in Switzerland because he is the primary caregiver for his son, Ilia, who has spina bifida that limits his mobility.

“Simultaneously, my friend who had the house destroyed, they moved to the U.S., and they told me and told me they knew a family who wanted to be sponsors for a Ukrainian family,” Olga Mazur said. “We know that God prepared a space for us here (South Carolina).”

“WE HAVE TO DO SOMETHING”

For the other side of the story, Chuck and Wynelle Middlebrooks felt called to do something after seeing the news about Russian’s attack on Ukraine.

“We were watching TV one night, and on the news it showed a lady in the middle of the street. Her house had been destroyed and she looked exactly like our friends in Moldova,” Wynelle Middlebrooks said. “I turned to him and said, ‘We have to do something.’”

The couple had a little experience working with a family from Afghanistan through

their church, but this time they wanted to take a more hands-on role. They reached out to a Ukrainian pastor they knew in Spartanburg, South Carolina to see if he knew a family they could help support. Turns out that he did know the Mazurs, and the rest is history.

MAKING SOUTH CAROLINA HOME

With the help of the Middlebrooks, the family was quickly approved to come to America. A member of the Chapin Baptist Circle of Welcome found them a home, and everyone began learning the ins-and-outs of becoming acclimated to a new home and culture.

“We couldn’t do this without the church people who are around us. One night we were having dinner with another couple who agreed to help. She sat down at the table and said, ‘I have a confession to make.’ She speaks Russian. She has been tremendous help,” Chuck Middlebrooks said. “And other families have joined with us, so we

See Family on page 15

The Mazurs are making South Carolina their new home with the help of their sponsors, Chuck and Wynelle Middlebrooks.

Investing, from page 11

tions. To facilitate the original construction of Crescent View, now Trinity View, Lutheridge leased the land to LSC at a nominal charge.

“My dad was the first on-site employee at Lutheridge back in 1950. I came to camp every summer growing up. Lutheridge grows strong children, and it grows strong clergy,” LSC President and CEO Ted Goins aid. “Lutheran Services Carolinas is thrilled to support our sister organization in this way. We are the church together!”

As the mission for both organizations have evolved over time, the boards of LSC and NovusWay agreed that it would be in the best interests of both organizations for LSC to

Family, from page 14 have about 10 people that are our Circle of Welcome.”

The family has also received support from St. Francis of Assisi Episcopal, First Presbyterian of Columbia, and We Care Food Distribution Center in Chapin.

obtain outright ownership of the Trinity View land. In addition, to facilitate anticipated future needs, LSC has an option to purchase from NovusWay up to an additional three acres adjoining the current Trinity View site, which would not adversely impact Lutheridge’s ability to serve its mission. Such a sale would occur at a future time and reflect a reasonable market price.

“This investment from our longtime partner LSC will be utilized to help address the continuing pandemic impacts from the closures and more restricted operations of the NovusWay camps these last few years,” Intentional Interim CEO of NovusWay Dick Peterson said. “In addition, this will provide some much-needed funding for maintenance

Alex Mazur got a job at a local warehouse, and Ilia said he just passed his permit test, so he is on his way to getting his driver’s license and hopes to get a part-time job soon and go back to school. Kate and Vicki are still in school where they are working on perfecting their English. Kate attends Chapin High School.

and repairs at Lutheridge and our other camps along with some additional funding for programming that benefits all our campers.”

The news about this investment was officially announced by Peterson and Goins during the NC Synod Assembly in Greensboro, North Carolina on June 2, 2023.

“Since the beginning of our relationship, both organizations have sought to cooperate for shared ministry across the generations. This is a recommitment to those founding principles,” Peterson said. “On a personal note, I appreciate the working partnership that Ted and I have developed. This is a great example of how we should work together in the church to better serve our constituents of all ages, now and in the future.”

Everything is different in America, from the medical system to the metric system, but Olga Mazur said she’s received great support from the LSC team in the transition.

“We just want to give a big thank you to all of our team,” Olga Mazur said. “We feel big support from LSC.”

(Lutheran Services for the Aging, Inc.)

Post Office Box 947

Salisbury, North Carolina 28145

Phone: 704-637-2870

Toll free: 1-800-HELPING

www.LSCarolinas.net

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“Empowered by Christ, we walk together with all we serve.”

Home Depot shopping spree

Sergii Gaidarzhy and his wife Olena Gaidarzhy are from Kherson, Ukraine. The couple and their four children only had a few minutes to get out of their home when Russia invaded.

The family was never able to go back and was forced to relocate before eventually making their way to the U.S. in September 2022.

Since arriving in the U.S., Sergii Gaidarzhy has been able to work small architectural and construction jobs, which is how he established himself as a successful worker in Ukraine. However, he only had a hammer to his name, so he would show up to jobs having to borrow tools to complete them.

Our LSC New Americans Program Greenville office played a role in the family getting settled since they arrived in the U.S. and recently surprised Sergii Gaidarzhy and one of his sons with a $3,000 Home Depot shopping spree for new tools.

Voices is a publication of Lutheran Services Carolinas, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit health and human services organization and a social ministry serving children and families in North and South Carolina and older adults in North Carolina. Content for Voices is written by Amy Estridge, director of communications and marketing, and Erin Kidd, communications manager. Questions or comments should be directed to Amy Estridge at aestridge@lscarolinas.net