Three generations of executive directors unveiled what was once sealed away underground for 15 years. This August, the preservation of history was revealed in a special celebration, honoring its leadership and past and current residents along with 25 years of providing care.
The 125 people who gathered on the village green had their guesses — and hopes — about the contents of the metal cylinder in the ground that was stowed away 15 years ago, in 2003.
It included a letter from Joe Benson, the first executive director of Wyndemere, which he read during the ceremony.
“I’m sure there will be significant changes at Wyndemere,” said Benson, reading his letter. “However, one thing that I am sure will never change is the pride and sense of family that exists among residents and staff.”
Benson, former executive director Erin Donaldson, and current executive director Marty Jensen all came together to look back at the start and ahead to the future and what’s to come.
“As Joe said in his letter, so many things have changed at Wyndemere, but some aspects have stayed the same,” said Kelly Berger, Wyndemere activities and programming director. “Regardless of who is in charge, there has always been a warm and open friendliness.”
Encapsulated were memories made years ago:
- The first 10 years, every January issue, of the Snowdrop newsletter
- Cliffhanger, a resident-led newsletter by previous resident Cliff Broderick
- The first volunteer recognition
- The first annual report
- A place setting of dishes from 2003
- A folder titled Wyndemere the Dream, which contained information about the economy during 2003 – grocery store prices, gas prices and news
“We have so much to look forward to and our residents are what make everything worthwhile,” said Berger. “That’s why we’re going to add to the time capsule letters from our current residents addressed to our future residents. I can’t wait to see what the next 15 years hold!”
“We have so much to look forward to and our residents are what make everything worthwhile,” said Berger. “That’s why we’re going to add to the time capsule letters from our current residents addressed to our future residents. I can’t wait to see what the next 15 years hold!”
