Landis Adult Day Services (ADS) clients and team members know Ron Gigl as more than just a friendly face—he’s a craftsman, a storyteller, and a source of joy. From creating wood and metal projects to connecting with friends new and old, Ron has spent his life building physical objects as well as valuable relationships.


R


on’s love for working with his hands began early. “I got my first job when I was nine,” Ron recalled. His father, a skilled


craftsman, introduced him to a local metalworking shop where Ron learned by doing—sweeping floors and observing the masters at work. His dad also had a shop in their basement and encouraged Ron to practice what he learned. Tese experiences paved the way for Ron’s career as an Industrial Arts teacher in the Conestoga Valley School District.


Teaching was more than a job for Ron—it was his calling. Over 30 years, he taught middle school students not just how to work with wood and metal, but also how to think creatively and solve problems. One of the highlights of his career was forming a club where students built mini-bikes from scratch. “We even set up a little bank account and raised funds,” Ron shared. “By the end, the kids were riding their bikes in their backyards, having the time of their lives.”


After retirement, Ron and his wife, Jan, moved to Brethren Village. He initially struggled with the isolation of independent living. Tat changed when he began attending Landis ADS. “I owe Jan for bringing me here,” he said. “I feel like I belong.”


At ADS, Ron found a community that values his skills and humor. He once gave a guitar performance that had everyone laughing until they cried, a testament to his willingness to “look silly” for the sake of joy. Christy Carpenter, Director of Landis Adult Day Services, noted, “Ron’s willingness to ‘chip in’ through sharing life experiences, volunteering to help, or telling a story, often brings a unique light to Landis Adult Day Services. And his laughter is contagious.”


“Joy is the value that means the most to me,” Ron shared, referring to the guiding values at Landis Communities. “It’s what I try to bring to everything I do.”


Reflecting on his life, Ron said he’s most proud of the things he’s built—not just furniture or gadgets, but relationships and a sense of purpose. “My whole life, I’ve been doing stuff of value,” he said. “And at Landis ADS, I still get to do that.”


As he puts it, “I’m a lucky dude.” And everyone at Landis ADS is lucky to have him.


Landis.org | FLOURISH | Spring 2025 • 11


Enriching


Each Day, Together


Well-Deserved National Recognition for the ADS Team


Landis Adult Day Services has received a Choice Community Award by Holleran Consulting for completion of their 2024 Employee Engagement and Satisfaction survey! Tis accolade means they are engaging with clients at the highest possible levels, placing at the top of the Holleran National Benchmark.


Christy Carpenter, Director of Landis ADS commented, “For us to earn the Choice Community Award distinction means our team members are fully committed to creating a welcoming, supportive environment where each client feels valued. Teir dedication to building meaningful relationships and providing compassionate care is what makes this recognition possible.”


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