Volunteer service shines at Lutheran Home's Auxiliary Fall Sale
The Lutheran Home's Auxiliary is hosting its annual Fall Sale fro 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sept. 20, and the community is invited to browse an array of pre-loved vintage treasures, fall holiday decor and new items in the Lutheran Home Chapel, 800 W. Oakton St., in Arlington Heights.
All proceeds from the sale go directly to supporting Lutheran Home resident programs.
Barbara Morton, Ph.D., leads the Lutheran Home Auxiliary as president. Morton is integral to the Auxiliary's success, assisting with major fundraising events and helping to expand the areas of service provided by Auxiliary volunteers.
Morton's passion for volunteering blossomed after she retired from a distinguished academic career. Originally from Queens, New York, Morton spent 10 years as a teacher and then principal at Redeemer Lutheran School in Glendale, New York, before becoming a professor and dean in the Concordia University system, first at Concordia University in Austin, Texas, and then at Concordia University, Irvine, California.
After retirement, Morton led many volunteer programs for the children living in a transitional homeless shelter, Village of Hope, in Tustin, California. Upon moving to Northern Illinois, Morton sought opportunities to continue her volunteer work close to home. She found that perfect fit with the Lutheran Home Auxiliary
. The mission of the Lutheran Home Auxiliary is to enhance the lives of those living at Lutheran Home. The Auxiliary financially supports a rhythm drumming program for all residents, devotional materials and the refurbishment of the MyTapestry Courtyard for memory care residents. Its members also engage in many hands-on activities with residents throughout the year, such as bingo parties, birthday bag deliveries, entertainment programs, special sale time for the residents, and craft and mission activities.
Morton has also helped the Lutheran Life Communities raise funds to support crucial programs like the Benevolent Fund, which cares for residents who have outlived their financial resources.
Morton’s tireless efforts and dedication to serving others will be recognized this year as the Outstanding Volunteer Award from the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Chicago chapter. This honor serves as a testament to the impact of volunteerism and is an inspiration to contribute to our community.
“Barbara is the epitome of servant leadership,” said Joe Anderson, president of Lutheran Life Communities Foundation. “Her passion for supporting our residents and ensuring they have the best possible quality of life is truly inspirational.”
The Auxiliary Fall Sale on Sept. 20 is a great opportunity to browse the selection of treasures while celebrating the incredible volunteers of the Auxiliary who make Lutheran Home's mission possible. Not only is it a fun event, but it is a great way to give back. But as you can see in this article, the Auxiliary is a lot more than its sales. If you are interested in learning more about the Auxiliary or volunteering at Lutheran Home, you can write to Morton at Lutheranhomeauxiliary@gmail.com.