The Danish Home and Berglund Construction Share Spirit of Heritage, Family
There's something beautifully "full circle" about Berglund Construction's silver sponsorship of The Danish Home of Chicago's 125th anniversary celebration events this year. One hundred and six years ago, in 1911, Berglund Construction was founded by an immigrant from Sweden, Fred Berglund.
A year later, in 1912, funds were secured for the construction of a new building for The Danish Old People's Home, as The Danish Home was formerly called. Today, Berglund Construction is serving as construction manager for the boutique senior living community's plans for additions and renovations.
"In order to provide the great services and facilities they are known for, The Danish Home requires support from all corners, and we are happy to do our part to ensure success," said Berglund Construction president Fred Berglund, grandson of the company's founder.
Named one of the Top 400 Contractors in the U.S., Berglund Construction employs 350 people across the Midwest and generates over $200 million in annual revenues. The firm's services encompass construction management, building restoration, historic preservation, building and design, pre-construction, lean construction, safety and quality control, and more. Its website displays like a catalog of iconic architecture, featuring magnificent edifices of various styles from various periods in time.
"We are proud to be affiliated with The Danish Home and believe in giving back to those with a strong mission," Berglund added. Like Berglund Construction, The Danish Home is rooted in generations of family bonds. Founded in 1891 when 12 Danish women envisioned a safe, comfortable haven of care for older people who'd emigrated from Denmark, The Danish Home has remained true to its Scandinavian roots, while also welcoming residents of all heritages.
"We are thrilled to be celebrating 125 years of providing quality care for seniors, and we are honored to have sponsorship from an enterprise as well-established and committed to excellence as Berglund Construction," said The Danish Home president and CEO Scott Swanson.
The Danish Home's anniversary year began with a kick-off luncheon in April celebrating the "Spirit of Heritage" with a look back to the home's beginnings 125 years ago. Next, the "Tivoli Gardens and Casino Night" on June 24 hosted over 1,000 guests on the grounds of The Danish Home, which were transformed to look and feel like Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen.
On August 10, professional Chef Stig Hansen flew in from Denmark to serve some of his finest creations, paired with beer and wine, at a celebratory "Cuisine and Spirits" event. Berglund team members were pleased to attend the tasty culinary event. On December 9, The Danish Home will close out the year with its annual tradition of Lillejuleaften ("Little Christmas"), with gifts from Santa and carols around the tree.
"We share in the Scandinavian heritage of The Danish Home, and we share in their excitement for the 'Spirit of 125'," said Berglund.