HILDA SHIRK, PHD, MSW


WHY I SERVE F


orty-two individuals volunteer their time and talents as members of one of the five boards of directors overseeing Landis Communities and its affiliates. Tis column features a member of one of the boards and lists those who serve with the highlighted individual.


Tell me a little about yourself… I grew up in a large Mennonite family in Lancaster County. My parents met in France where my dad was doing reconstruction work for Mennonite Central Committee in my mother’s community after WWII. Teir life of service to others was inspirational.


My career in nonprofit organizations began as a way to use my degree in Spanish and evolved to include work with families, retirement communities and healthcare, retiring in June of 2019 as CEO of what is now Union Community Care. I value the opportunity to continue nonprofit work through service on the boards of WellSpan and the High Foundation, as well as Landis Communities.


My husband Wes and I love living in Lancaster City where I serve on the Stand Holder Review Committee for Central Market. I enjoy traveling, yoga, gardening, and connecting with friends and family.


When did you first hear of Landis Homes/Landis Communities? It seems I always knew about Landis Homes. When working with Mennonite Health Services (MHS), I gained a deeper appreciation for the high quality of care provided by Landis Homes and their commitment to those with backgrounds in ministry and missions. I later became aware of the broader vision of Landis Communities and the range of services available. I saw tremendous benefit to the Lancaster community.


What was the first thing you noticed after joining the Landis Communities Board? I walked away from the first meeting with the impression that the board and staff leaders are smart, caring individuals who are committed to the mission and are responsible to each other and the residents. It is exciting to be part of the leadership that evaluates opportunities, risks and potential partners to ensure long-term viability.


Cultivating Life, Together


Hilda Shirk, PhD, MSW, is a member of the Landis Communities Board of Directors. She is also


serving as a Co-Chair of the City Vision Campaign for Landis Place on King.


What do you want others to know about Landis Communities? I want people to understand the breadth of services provided by Landis Communities. Landis Homes, Landis at Home, Landis Adult Day Services, Steeple View Lofts, Mountain View Terrace and Welsh Mountain Home each assist older adults in unique ways. As a little girl, I remember going with my dad to visit a blind man living at Welsh Mountain Home and was impressed by the care he was receiving there.


Why do you serve on the Board of Landis Communities? I believe in the mission of Landis Communities and find satisfaction in using my skills and knowledge in nonprofits and governance.


Why are you a Co-chair of the City Vision Campaign for Landis Place on King? Tis project brings together my love of the city and my sense of justice that quality housing should be available to all seniors. I want to be a part of this unique approach that could serve as a model for the future. Te City Vision Campaign connects others who also want to be part of this wonderful opportunity to provide affordable housing.


LANDIS COMMUNITIES BOARD MEMBERS


• Allon Lefever, Chair • Bill Hartman, Vice Chair • Dan Mast, Secretary • David Hernley, Treasurer • Tina Campbell • John Eby


• John Lines • Glen Moffett • Nelson Okanya • Hilda Shirk • Daniel Wubah


Landis.org | FLOURISH | Spring 2022 • 23


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