CULTIVATING COMMUNITY


“They go out of their way to make people feel at home and have purpose.”


AT HOME FEELING TRULY


Raised in the Smokestown area, near Denver, PA, by her grandparents, Kathryn Geib, who is known to family and friends as Cassie, learned early the importance of feeling at home.


F


or many years, Cassie built a home with her husband Melvin, and began her sewing career. Working in Ephrata, Denver and Reinholds, she was known for her ability to make quality items.


Cassie and Melvin moved to Mountain View Terrace, an affiliate of Landis Communities at the top of Welsh Mountain. Tey enjoyed life there and often remarked on the wonderful wildlife and the beauty of the countryside visible from their apartment.


After Melvin passed away in 2021, things became more difficult for Cassie. Her son Jeff says, “Dad took care of most details, and without him she felt deep loss.” In addition, her health needs increased and it became clear that she would benefit from more support and a greater emphasis on community life. Tis led Jeff, and his siblings Darrin and Tracy to investigate if Welsh Mountain Home, another Landis Communities affiliate, would be a good fit. Cassie moved to WMH in March of 2024.


Jeff says he felt reassured almost immediately after meeting the Welsh Mountain Home team. He remembers the warm welcome and confidence he felt from the start. Tat trust has continued to grow. “I talk with the team almost every weekend. Tey make sure she gets what she needs, no matter if it is medication, personal care, or other supports.”


“Mom’s friends really help her to feel like she belongs,” Jeff says. Tey play games together, share meals, and enjoy one another’s company. Because her room is near the activity room, she is often at the center of the day’s events.


WMH Executive Director, Mona Frey, explains that Cassie is a wonderful example of how the organization works to fulfill its mission of serving all residents with Christ-like love. “Cassie came to WMH with a modest amount of money in her savings account. Since moving to WMH, Cassie has spent down those savings. But we don’t make people leave when that happens. Our wonderful donors make it possible for Cassie and others like her to stay in their homes, with their friends, and in familiar surroundings.”


For Jeff, what stands out most is the spirit of the people who care for his mother each day. “Tey go out of their way to make people feel at home and have purpose,” he says. “Because she was so lost without dad, they have filled a big hole in her life.”


8 • Landis.org | FLOURISH | Summer 2026


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