Arkansas City Presbyterian Manor
APRIL 2022
PMMA celebrates history with Founder’s Day
Volunteer spotlight:
Dennis Voth Since relocating to the area more than 10 years ago to become a pastor at Central Christian Church, Dennis Voth has been a regular face around Arkansas City Presbyterian Manor where he volunteers his time visiting residents and leading Bible study. “I really got involved with the Manor as soon as I got here,” said Dennis. “I started visiting folks at the Manor because I had parishioners there and when we were able to, before COVID-19, our elders would take communion there on Sundays.”
Alice Kalb’s inquiry sparked a twoyear study and the eventual opening of the very first Presbyterian Manor on April 19, 1949. Dennis Voth
In addition to leading Bible study, Dennis also assists with the community’s annual “Celebration of Life.” “It’s kind of a memorial service for all the families to come and recognize the ones who have died at the Manor,” said Dennis. “I provide a scripture and prayer and the Manor provides candles or lanterns—it’s a pretty neat event. I enjoy that and appreciate the Manor putting that on.” When asked what he enjoys most about volunteering here, Dennis is quick to respond, “the people.” “Some of the residents have some really neat stories—how they’ve lived their lives, what they’ve done,” said Dennis, “I grew up in agriculture, so talking with some of the folks who have been on farms and learning how they established connections, how they worked on the farm—just to hear their stories about how they grew up and the times they lived in. It’s just interesting to me—that history of their lives.” During his time at Arkansas City Presbyterian Manor, Dennis says he’s been impressed with the quality of the living spaces at the community— especially in its memory care neighborhood.
Volunteer – continued on page 2
PMMA (Presbyterian Manors of MidAmerica®) employees will observe the founding of the senior living system this month as the company celebrates its 73-year history of serving seniors in Kansas and Missouri. PMMA’s roots go back to 1947. Alice Kalb, a widow from central Kansas, appealed to a Presbyterian Church organization to establish a home for seniors. Her vision laid the foundation for the first Presbyterian Manor community in Newton, Kan., and inspired others to do even more. Through the many decades, PMMA® remained true to the spirit of Alice’s vision, providing quality senior services guided by Christian values.
Founder’s Day – continued on page 4
Get the latest on visitation and COVID-19 at our campus at ArkansasCityPresbyterianManor.org/covid-19.
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