The Aktion Connection

January 4, 2011 | Newsroom | Author: Neil Young

Genesis HealthCare Nursing Center Seniors in AKTION

Two and a half years ago, the West Chester (PA) Kiwanis Club teamed up with Brinton Manor, a Genesis HealthCare Skilled Nursing Facility, and became the first ever Kiwanis – Aktion Club chartered out of a skilled nursing center.

Since the partnership began in 2008, the Brinton Manor Aktion Club has addressed a variety of community needs, including adoption of three local homeless shelters. The club provides meals, clothing and social activities to shelter residents. For example, 2010 marked the start of the Aktion Club’s vegetable and flower garden on Brinton Manor’s grounds. The produce grown in the garden is donated to the shelters and the Club has donated over $700 in fresh summer fruits and vegetables to the West Chester St. Agnes Day Center to help needy families.

The Brinton Manor Aktion Club has been self–sufficient since its May 2008 charter date and has funded all community service projects through its own independent fundraising activities. This year, the club is on target to raise $1,500 to fund projects through 2011. Also, the Genesis HealthCare Brinton Manor Aktion Club expects to increase membership from its present twelve to nearly twenty-five members. With this increase, nearly 30% of all Brinton Manor residents will be members in 2011.

The unique collaboration between Kiwanis and Brinton Manor has not only benefitted the community, but has also been fantastic for the residents of Brinton Manor. The residents have been able to remain integrated with the community, have built new relationships and remain active – all important aspects to staying happy, healthy and young.