Lutheran SeniorLife Foundation Annual Event Celebrates Making a Difference Posted on October 23, 2024November 7, 2024 “Make a difference that will not be forgotten.” Lutheran SeniorLife President and CEO, David Fenoglietto, spoke those words as a call to action for an evening filled with purpose and philanthropy at this year’s Lutheran SeniorLife Foundation Annual Event, held at the picturesque Pittsburgh Field Club. The Annual Event serves a vital cause: raising funds for the Lutheran SeniorLife Mission Fund, which impacts the lives of countless individuals through its LIFE programs in Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, and Lawrence counties, as well as the Visiting Nurses Association of Western PA, the Passavant and St. John Communities, and the Lutheran Service Society. Under the theme, ‘A Time to Make a Difference’, sponsors, donors, friends and employees gathered with a shared mission: to uplift older adults and vulnerable members of our communities across Western Pennsylvania. “My message tonight is to shine a bright light on our caring team,” remarked Fenoglietto to the attendees. “When we shine the li ght on our compassionate staff, we can see the depth of programs and our mission to serve.” At the heart of this message was recognizing “Employees Who Have Made a Difference”. Posters displayed throughout the venue featured the names of those whose work exemplifies the values of teamwork and collaboration while serving with dignity, respect and compassion. Testimonials for each highlighted the quiet, yet profound ways lives are touched daily across Lutheran SeniorLife’s vast network of care. It was a reminder that the difference being made wasn’t just through financial support, but through the tireless dedication of the employees who bring Lutheran SeniorLife’s Mission to life every day. Throughout the night, the melodic sounds of violinist Ron Molinaro played, as guests mingled, placed their bids on the silent auction items and purchased raffle tickets for a chance to set sail on a breathtaking 7-day Alaskan Cruise. Thanks to everyone’s generosity, this year’s Annual Event raised over $150,000. These generous donations will directly impact lives in the most meaningful ways—older adults will receive compassionate care, vulnerable members of our community will be supported, and countless families will find comfort knowing their loved ones are thriving. “The atmosphere was full of positivity all night long, with so much generosity that ultimately benefits all the residents and individuals in the programs we serve,” said Rev. Dan Smail, Chairman of the Lutheran SeniorLife Foundation Board, speaking of the overwhelming support. “I am grateful for everyone who turned out tonight, for the good energy we shared, and for the promise that will grow from the contributions raised.” The evening’s success was the result of a year of tireless effort and meticulous planning by Lutheran SeniorLife Foundation President, Jane Bittcher, and her outstanding team—Heather Fennell, Barbara Gannon, and Sandra Stanick. “Tonight we celebrated those who make a difference in the lives of people we serve every day – event sponsors and attendees, along with board members, volunteers, employees, and even our own residents,” said Bittcher. “We could not continue to meet our mission without the financial generosity, as well as the time and talent shared by our donors and supporters.” As the evening came to a close, Fenoglietto’s message was clear: making a difference is a team effort. It starts with the generosity of donors and sponsors, but it’s the employees—the heart of the organization—whose compassionate care helps foster an Abundant Life for those we serve and who serve.