Often, we find ourselves in awe of the sheer power of generosity — how a single act of giving can ripple through time, shaping the future in ways we never imagined. At KenCrest, we witness this every day. The kindness and commitment of our donors and volunteers have not only sustained our mission for over 120 years, but have propelled us forward, enabling us to expand and innovate in ways that continue to change lives.
Our story began in 1905 when Sister Maria Roeck’s idea for the Kensington Dispensary emerged from the need to offer medical services to fight tuberculosis to the underserved. Over the next two years, 300 volunteers gave their time, services, and financial resources to ensure the Dispensary’s success. Three women’s auxiliaries formed, bringing together 257 members who dedicated themselves to ensuring the dispensary could continue its vital work.
During an interview with the Times Herald years ago, William J. Nolan, KenCrest Centers’ Executive Director, spoke about Sister Maria’s success in raising money for the organization. “When she ran out of money to buy supplies, she would shut the dispensary down and walk through the neighborhood raising money. She put together a board, then reached out to other communities to recruit people to work with her – not just Lutherans – to raise money."
Time and time again, the generosity of the community ensured that the Dispensary could continue its life-changing work.
As we grew, so did our mission. River Crest was established in 1913 to care for children and families suffering from tuberculosis. By 1925, we had cared for more than 2,000 children. But we knew we had to do more. The demand was overwhelming, and expansion was the only option. It was then that our Board of Managers and the River Crest Committee came together, determined to build a new facility. This space would offer specialized care, access to fresh air, better medical treatment, and a chance at a healthier future.
Raising funds for such an ambitious project was no small feat. With a goal of $200,000 — equivalent to $2 million today — KenCrest launched the “Give Us a Place in the Sun” campaign. Volunteers spread out across the city, speaking directly to donors and sharing the faces and stories of the children who needed their help. On the campaign's final day, 350 workers gathered at the Bellevue-Stratford Hotel, anxiously awaiting the results. When the final number was revealed — $232,395 — cheers erupted. It was a testament to the power of community, proving that when people come together, there is nothing they cannot achieve.
This spirit of giving is the very foundation of KenCrest. Today, just as it was over a century ago, our donors are the reason we can continue expanding our mission. Their generosity fuels our ability to innovate, to offer new programs, and to ensure that those we support have the tools they need to lead fulfilling lives. Because of you, KenCrest can provide essential services that impact thousands of lives every day, like:
- Adult Residential Community Living Homes that provide safe, supportive housing with around-the-clock care for individuals with disabilities.
- Lifesharing opportunities that pair individuals with welcoming families to foster inclusion and independence.
- Supported Independent Living programs that empower adults to live self-sufficiently while receiving necessary assistance.
- Community-Based Programs that integrate individuals into their neighborhoods and provide vital social and vocational opportunities.
- Enabling Technology initiatives that provide assistive devices and smart home solutions to maximize independence.
- Early Intervention and Early Learning services that support young children with developmental delays, setting the foundation for future success.
- Transitional Care Homes for Medically Fragile Children that provide a nurturing environment for children with complex medical needs.
And many, many more. These programs exist because of the generosity of people like you. We stand here today, looking back at 120 years of impact because of the people who have invested in our mission. To our donors — past, present, and future — you are the reason KenCrest thrives.
Your support is more than a donation; it is a legacy, a promise that together, we will continue to create a world where everyone has the opportunity to flourish.
Because of you, KenCrest is, and always will be, a place in the sun.
