Since all three women worked at Landis Homes, carpooling to work was easy. Elta and Lois worked in Dining Services and were often on a similar schedule. Norma worked as a hairdresser and in the activities department during the early part of her employment. Later she achieved certification as a nursing assistant, which meant she worked part-time in three departments.


Norma and Lois started volunteering again through the volunteer services office in 2005 and 2006, respectively. According to current Volunteer Services Director Moniqua Acosta, “Tey always volunteer with a joyful heart and show a genuine sense of compassion and empathy for residents.”


“Tey have first-hand knowledge and understanding of the needs of the residents and gladly give their time,” said Moniqua.


After more than thirty years of working, Lois and Norma retired. In 2018, they sold their chalet and moved into an apartment at Landis Homes.


Norma and Lois still volunteer at Landis Homes. Norma does manicures for residents in Cedar and Aspen, households in Personal Care. She also plays her autoharp when she visits residents one-on-one. “Sometimes it is more visiting than music and other times it is more music than visiting. We do whatever seems right that day,” says Norma. “Sometimes they sing along.”


Lois says, “I help escort residents to the hairdresser two days a week. When needed, I help get residents to the podiatrist or dentist.”


Off campus, Lois works on projects at the Woodcrest Retreat Center in Ephrata with their fundraiser meals and serves as her church’s contact person for these projects. Together Norma and Lois volunteer weekly at the Material Resource Center, also in Ephrata, as they have for many years. Tere they help in the quilt and comforter room, sort clothing, and do crafts. “We also volunteer with an international Christian aid organization,” Lois said.


Reflecting on her long history with Landis Homes as a team member, resident and volunteer, Lois said, “Landis Homes is quite different from years ago. It is much bigger as far as operating the kitchens and dining areas. But it is still a caring community and has many opportunities to participate in activities and volunteering.”


Norma reflected, “When I was younger, I learned a lot from my grandparents.”


She remembers her Grandma Swartzendruber’s advice. “She would say, ‘Norma, learn to be flexible. When you are flexible, your work is easier and so much better.’ I remember that,” Norma said, “and I believe it. It goes for life too.”


She remembers her Grandma Swartzendruber’s advice. “She would say, ‘Norma, learn


to be flexible. When you are flexible,


your work is easier and so much better.’ I remember that,” Norma said, “and I


believe it. It goes for life too.”


Landis.org | FLOURISH | Spring 2020 • 9


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