The Resident Aid fund is a vital resource at the Brethren Retirement Community in Greenville, Ohio. It began in the 1970s in the living room of Ivan and Clara Patterson. They saw the need, made their own contribution, and encouraged others to give to the fund. It provides assistance to residents who have exhausted their financial resources.
The fund is financed by donations from supporters in the churches and in the community. Each year there is a fundraising gala, and recently a butterfly release program has been added. Swallow-tail butterflies are brought in from California. When a supporter makes a donation, a butterfly is released in the name of a person being honored. Donors can “purchase” multiple butterflies. For a further donation the name of the honoree can be added to a memorial sign.
The community is committed to providing a place for its residents; if the money in the fund is used up, BRC continues to provide services from its own working budget. That dedication to compassionate care extends to its staff and aligns with Eder Financial’s core mission. BRC offers Eder Retirement Plan to its employees, and partners with Eder Organizational Investing to administer their Charitable Gift Annuity program. This CGA program supports, among other things, the Resident Aid fund.
Ryan Gathard, Regional Director of Missional Advancement, said, “We want residents to continue to receive the care and support they deserve regardless of their financial circumstances, helping to maintain a sense of home and security within our community, which affirms our commitment to compassion and inclusivity. This is the heart of our mission to serve elders who call the Brethren Retirement Community home until the end of their lives.”
