I Want to Start a Movement: The Helpers are Always the Heroes

Mr. Rogers’ mother once told him to “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” This is very true of our own KenCrest community. Helping others is at the core of our mission and our work.

Rhonda’s passion for helping others began at a young age when her mother encouraged her to be of service to others. With her mother as an example of opening her home to children and people in need, Rhonda has followed in her footsteps and makes a positive difference as a Lifesharing provider to a gentleman named Tom. She’s proud of the special relationship she’s built with Tom over the past 36 years, starting in 1984 at Pennhurst Center. She was more than just another staff member, and included Tom in family events, activities, and holiday meals. He also developed a tight-knit relationship with Rhonda’s siblings and mother. When Tom moved out of an apartment and transitioned into Rhonda’s home, he had one wish: to continue seeing friends and building personal relationships; including having the opportunity to visit his girlfriend. Since the pandemic, Rhonda has had to find alternative ways for Tom to stay connected with his friends and girlfriend, but Tom knows he has neighbors and extended family that are just like friends and are always there for him.

In the fall of 2020, Rhonda was recognized as one of the Excellence in Lifesharing Award recipients during the 8th Annual Pennsylvania Lifesharing Conference. Winners were selected from each region based on their levels of commitment, advocacy, quality, and creativity. Sue, a Personal Outcome Champion in Lifesharing, recognized Rhonda’s commitment to welcoming Tom into her home and making him feel like part of the family. Rhonda’s passion for helping is one of the universal traits that she and other heroes we’ve recognized share. Each of them have helped to empower others, helped in their pursuits of meaningful life experiences, and helped advocate for their wants, needs, and desires. Let’s continue to celebrate with gratitude for our many heroes in our everyday lives!