On Tuesday, November 28, #GivingTuesday, Richfield Living celebrated the philanthropic holiday by starting a new tradition of its own, A Celebration of Life & Lights.
An audience of 150, comprised of Richfield residents, family members, staff and individuals from the greater community, gathered to take time to remember loved ones and to express appreciation for those they cherish.
Richfield President & CEO George Child witnessed first-hand the importance of offering such an event to the greater community.
“I had the pleasure to sit by a couple whose mother was a resident seven years ago. She has since passed. In seeing how happy they were to come back to Richfield, to reconnect with the community and to take time to honor and remember their mother made the entire effort worthwhile,” Child said.
Chaplain Gary Kingery shared a message, focusing on the importance of taking time to remember and honor loved ones, to reflect on lessons learned and to take the opportunities to make a positive impact in others’ lives. He challenged the audience by ending his message with the question, “Are we living in such a way that no one would go wrong if they copied what we did and said?”
The event culminated to the illumination of a 20-foot-tall “Tree of Life & Lights,” sponsored by John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home. The tree will remain illuminated during the holiday season in the center of Richfield’s campus.
“It was very heartwarming,” said Jon Wilson, VP/General Manager of John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home. “John M. Oakey & Son was, is and will continue to be proud to be part of such a special occasion.”
Attendees enjoyed music provided by PraiseWorthy from Fort Lewis Christian Church, as well as selections performed by musician Tim Riordan and Stephanie Landes, who oversees Marketing & Fund Development at Richfield.
The ceremony concluded with complimentary hot chocolate and cookies.
As part of the event, individuals were invited to make a contribution to Richfield in honor or in memory of a loved one. Those commemorated were honored with a symbolic light on the tree. The event raised over $30,000, with $25,140 designated for Richfield’s Assisted Living Legacy Fund. This fund helps Richfield to subsidize on average $273,000 in benevolent care each year.
“Thank you for making Richfield part of your life,” said Child. “Our community is certainly thankful it has the opportunity to be part of yours.”
-Submitted by Stephanie Landes
