VNA Honored for Six Decades of Compassion

The Visiting Nurses Association of Western Pennsylvania (VNA) proudly marked its 60th anniversary with two special events that honored its enduring legacy of compassionate, high-quality care. Since its founding in 1965, the VNA has been a cornerstone of support for residents across Butler County, offering personalized home health and hospice services that prioritize dignity, comfort, and community. In recognition of this milestone, both local and state leaders gathered to celebrate the organization’s lasting impact and the dedicated professionals who have made its mission possible.

The celebration began with a special presentation by the Butler County Commissioners, who honored the VNA with a citation recognizing six decades of service. Commissioners Kevin Boozel, Kim Geyer, and Leslie Osche led the presentation, highlighting the organization’s role in enhancing the health and well-being of the community through its home-based care model.

Margie Walsh, Executive Director; Susanne Grove, Associate Director; and Tina Petras, Director of Program and Business Development, accepted the citation on behalf of the organization.

“This honor speaks to the dedication of our entire team and the deep trust the community has placed in us for six decades,” Walsh explained about the honor. “We are proud to serve, and we thank every nurse, past and present, who has helped make this legacy possible.”

Founded when home healthcare was just beginning to gain recognition as an alternative to institutional care, the VNA has developed into a model for community-based services. It has successfully weathered economic downturns, navigated pandemic challenges, and adapted alongside advancements in medical science to provide compassionate care to the residents of Butler County.

The recognition could not have come at a more fitting time, as it marked the start of National Nurses Week, a time to uplift and celebrate the compassion, skill, and resilience of nursing professionals nationwide.

Shortly after, the VNA held its official 60th anniversary ceremony, bringing together VNA staff, Lutheran SeniorLife leadership, and members of the VNA Board of Directors, all of whom were acknowledged for their dedicated service and contributions to the organization’s ongoing success. Pennsylvania State Senator Scott E. Hutchinson and State Representative Marci Mustello presented official citations to honor the VNA’s milestone anniversary and ongoing service during the event.

Executive Director Margie Walsh and Lutheran SeniorLife President and CEO David Fenoglietto accepted the citations to recognize their leadership and the organization’s longstanding commitment to quality care.

Executive Director Margie Walsh welcomed guests and offered remarks reflecting on the organization’s growth and the dedicated team that makes its work possible.

“This milestone is a testament to the compassion, professionalism, and commitment of every VNA team member—past and present,” she shared.

The celebration served as a moment of reflection, appreciation, and renewed purpose, as the VNA looks ahead to continuing its mission of care for generations to come.

As the VNA enters its seventh decade, it remains dedicated to meeting the evolving needs of the community with the same spirit of compassion and excellence that has guided it since 1965.