David Swartley
President/CEO
Recently, I had the privilege of speaking with employees living through exceedingly difficult times. As one was sharing her story, I thought her family was experiencing far more than any family should have to bear. Life can be difficult and is always unpredictable.
In 2012, an unusual sports event captured international attention. There was a professional cross-country race in northern Spain. As the race neared conclusion, the leader was Abel Mutai. Mutai, from Kenya, had been the recent bronze medalist in the 2012 London Olympics 3000M Steeplechase. He had a sizeable lead and appeared to be the certain winner. However, confused by the signage, Mutai pulled up early at the finish line, thinking he had completed the race. In fact, he was ten meters behind the finish line. Ivan Fernandez Anaya (from Spain) was running a distant second and approached the finish line. Instead of taking advantage of Mutai’s mistake, he stayed behind and, using gestures, guided Mutai to the finish line, where Mutai rightly finished as the winner.
During our season here on earth, we often face times when it seems like the headwinds are relentless. We have many residents who are avid bicyclists. Ask any of them the difference it makes when riding into a headwind or riding with a tailwind. One is excruciating; the other is quite enjoyable.
The benevolence that has blessed Moravian Manor Communities throughout its history, particularly in the last number of years, is a true tailwind to our mission.
In this issue, we celebrate the benevolence that blessed MMC this past year. By assisting us in sharing the responsibility for supporting residents who have outlived their funds, MMC is able to embark on projects that would not otherwise occur.
We have completed our Seasons Dining Room renovation and addition, refreshed our skilled nursing dining rooms, and as you read this, our outdoor recreational area is under construction. We have received our second-largest bequest and also our largest single donation in MMC history. Another donor anonymously purchased a new wheelchair van, giving us more flexibility for resident medical visits. The Lamplighters have energized many fundraising efforts and contributed over $20,000 in the past year. These are just a few examples of the numerous acts of generosity we have received.
I suspect the benevolence that has blessed MMC was modeled by our donors’ parents and grandparents. The belief that the world is bigger than just us is not necessarily our innate nature. Many athletes faced with the scenario described previously would have zoomed in on their personal glory. Many people use their financial gifts only for their personal benefit. I am blessed to be part of a mission where I meet folks who are more than willing to assist others to the finish line.
When I was a teenager growing up in New Jersey, I used to ride my bicycle to work at the Phillipsburg Agway feed mill. One morning, as I crested a hill, a truck passed me. I immediately pulled in behind the truck and followed closely (not recommended, as I was about three feet off his back bumper). I got sucked into the truck’s draft, which created a tailwind. The next two miles were the fastest time I ever rode on a bicycle.
Thank you for the spirit of generosity that provides a tailwind for MMC. It creates an environment where we can accomplish much more than on our own. I pray that friends, faith and family continue to provide tailwinds in your life as well.
— Read MMC’s complete 2025 Annual Impact Report on our Publications page (found below our Pursuits Community Lifestyle Magazine).