James and Gloria Straub Penn-Highlands Elk Pinecrest Manor Activities Fund Continues a Legacy of Caring and Giving

The Elk County Community Foundation is pleased to share the continued impact of the James and Gloria Straub Pinecrest Manor Activities Fund, established in memory of James and Gloria Straub. The fund provides ongoing support to Penn-Highlands Pinecrest Manor's Activities Department, helping provide programs, experiences, and resources that promote the happiness, engagement, and overall well-being of residents throughout the facility.

Gloria Straub was a volunteer at Pinecrest Manor, where she enjoyed spending time with residents and supporting the Activities Department. In honor of James and Gloria, their family established a fund at the Elk County Community Foundation to continue supporting something that was meaningful to Gloria during her lifetime.

Today, that legacy continues through funding for activities, equipment, and supplies that enrich the lives of Pinecrest Manor residents.

Recent purchases supported by the fund include games that provide opportunities for recreation, socialization, and group engagement; a stereo system for music-based activities; art supplies to encourage creativity; and fidget boards for sensory engagement. The fund also supported the purchase of a laptop, along with an iPad and protective case, allowing residents to stay connected with family and friends through video calls, messaging, and other forms of communication. For residents whose loved ones live farther away or are unable to visit frequently, these opportunities for connection can be especially meaningful.

While some of these purchases may seem like small things, their impact can be significant. A game shared with friends, a favorite song, an afternoon of creativity, or a video call with a loved one can bring joy, comfort, and connection to a resident's day. These everyday experiences play an important role in maintaining a positive quality of life.

Megan Bolden, Administrator of Penn-Highlands Pinecrest Manor, and Julie Taylor, Activities Director, understand firsthand the interests and needs of the residents they serve. Through their daily interactions, they see what brings residents joy, keeps them engaged, and contributes to their overall well-being. The James and Gloria Straub Pinecrest Manor Activities Fund allows them to identify and support activities, programs, and resources that benefit residents throughout the facility, while also providing the dedicated Activities Department staff with the tools they need to continue offering meaningful experiences.

"Funds like the James and Gloria Straub Pinecrest Manor Activities Fund are such a meaningful example of why people choose to establish a fund at the Community Foundation," said Tiffany Boschert, Executive Director of the Elk County Community Foundation. "When someone has a passion for an organization or program, establishing a fund allows that support to continue long after they are no longer here. Gloria loved spending time at Pinecrest Manor, and now her family can continue supporting something that meant so much to her. It's also important to recognize the staff who work every day to create these experiences for residents. Providing them with the resources they need helps them continue doing what they do best."

The James and Gloria Straub Pinecrest Manor Activities Fund is an example of how a family's generosity can create a lasting impact. Through the fund, James and Gloria's family continue to honor their memory while helping Pinecrest Manor provide activities and experiences that bring enjoyment, comfort, and connection to residents for years to come.

The Elk County Community Foundation works with individuals and families to establish charitable funds that support the organizations, programs, and causes that matter most to them, allowing their generosity to continue making a difference in the community.

For more information about the Elk County Community Foundation, please contact Tiffany Boschert, Executive Director, at 814-834-2125 or eccf@elkcountyfoundation.org