LETTERS: Call it home
To the Editor:
My name is Autumn Hanson and I work at Marion Manor as the new activity director. It's my duty to plan activities, run errands as needed, and such.
While running an errand to Zeiner Funeral Home I struck up a conversation about Christmas, the turnover in our staff, and other matters. People are not "giving" toward us this year.
I explained that I was about to go shopping for the residents and had only $70 in donations to spend for 39 gifts. It doesn't take much math to figure that isn't a whole lot per present.
People in the community don't understand that loss of support for Marion Manor hurts the residents, not the corporation. Most of our residents call Marion Manor "home."
Ty Zeiner then gave a generous donation along with one from other staff members at the funeral home.
Zeiner Funeral Home saved Christmas for us!
I then went to HRK to purchase some things and found myself talking to Jim and Berniece Beach about Christmas. We discussed how sales were low and that Christmas is about "doing for others."
Jim and Berniece gave another generous contribution in the form of gifts for residents. (they also regularly give a gift for the resident of the month).
I also want to thank the ladies of the VFW Auxiliary for remembering our veterans with gifts along with donations of 52 bibs and 10 lap robes, plus two gallons of apple sauce.
Also, thanks to the carolers from Morning Star Ranch, various churches, Marion Kiwanis Club, and Marion Elementary School (our neighbor) whose visits cheered up our residents.
Also, many thanks to those who came to say Mass or the rosary.
The one who just came to visit gives the gift of time.
You are special people and our residents need you.
I realize there are people who have chosen to stay away, as what they see as loyalty to the people who no longer work here. But, there are those who put the residents above all that.
That's what Christmas is all about. It doesn't have to be only on December 25th, it can be all year.
When I first started working here I was given a pin which said, "Marion Manor, just call us home." At that time I thought it was corny. But I now realize it's my second home (ask my family), and I would not like anyone to think badly of our home.
Autumn Hanson
Marion
