Members of the Auxiliary at Lutheran Crossings Enhanced Living at Moorestown didn’t let a single detail go untouched with the purchase of a new transportation van for residents of the South Jersey assisted living and skilled nursing community. This spirited group of philanthropic women was kicking the tires and checking under the hood to make sure the funds they helped to raise went ‘a long way’ in the 12-passenger, handicap-equipped van from Wolfington Body Company in Mt. Holly.
“Our number one priority as a supporting partner at Lutheran Crossings is to raise money for items that benefit the residents here. The new van is such a valuable investment,” said Auxiliary President Dr. Elise Korman, a retired physician and 12-year auxiliary member. “We are thrilled that is it finally here for the residents to use.”
Not only does the van carry residents to and from supervised activities and outings, it also transports them to doctor appointments, as well as regularly scheduled dialysis, chemotherapy and radiation therapy appointments.
The purchase of the van was made possible through a collection of funds generated by the Dorothea Partch Trust, the Lutheran Crossings’ Auxiliary fundraising efforts and a donation from an anonymous donor.
“It’s a tremendous resource to our residents,” said Sherry Outten, the new vice president and executive director at Lutheran Crossings. “The arrival of the new van could not have come at a better time, and we are so grateful to the Auxiliary, the Dorothea Partch Trust and the community for making it possible.”
The Auxiliary, a 20 plus member group of community women and men, has been serving Lutheran Crossings for nearly 68 years through its fundraising efforts. It has helped fund initiatives like the construction and furnishing of a 90-bed wing, the creation of a butterfly garden and a library, as well as the construction of and supplies for the community’s on-site ice cream parlor. The group also assists with the purchase of wheelchairs, birthday luncheons and holiday gifts for residents, and outings to local restaurants.
The Auxiliary’s largest fundraising event is its annual June Day, which is held on the campus of Lutheran Crossings. Historically, it has been a family fun event where representatives from local churches come together to sell gently used trinkets and treasures, and families bring their children to enjoy games, activities inflatables and a selection of tasty treats. This year the event will be a “Spring Fling,” and has been moved to Saturday, May 17 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will now include craft vendors and local entertainment.
As the van was welcomed to its new home, it was showered with a blessing by Lutheran Crossings’ own Pastor Jack Slotterback alongside residents and members of the Lutheran Crossings staff.
Community members interested in learning more about or becoming a volunteer for the Auxiliary at Lutheran Crossings are welcome to call (856) 235–1214.
