Impact Giving

“Remember that the happiest people are not those getting more, but those giving more.”
– H. Jackson Brown Jr.

A group of elderly people is outside a building. Two women are standing and smiling at the camera while others, including a person in a wheelchair, are in the background, showcasing the profound impact of giving on their community spirit.

What is Impact Giving?

Ready to make a difference in a resident’s life? You can make a big impact with a donation of $1,000 or more. Your support benefits special projects in our communities. You can earmark gifts toward a project you are passionate about, or support a United Church Homes initiative of your choosing.

For more information about impact giving at United Church Homes, please contact the advancement and fundraising office.

Donors Making a Difference

What inspires you — and how might that create a new reality for older adults?

Bill and Wanda Kroft had a vision to create independent homes for retirees. Bill and Wanda Kroft had a vision for a community of independent homes for retirees living in Canal Fulton, Ohio. They were interested in contributing to help make their vision a reality at Chapel Hill. Beginning with their sponsorship of a market feasibility study in 1998 with their gift of $500,000, over the years they have generously donated more than $1.89 million to help make their dream a reality. Kroft Commons, named in their honor, is a highlight of Chapel Hill Community with nearly 48 condominiums serving approximately 60 residents. Bill and Wanda enjoy their retirement while living independently at Chapel Hill.

Create Impact by Joining a Giving Circle

Our Giving circles recognize the generous contributions of our donors while honoring those individuals who have helped shape United Church Homes into what it is today.

Ruth F. Parker Circle – $10,000+

Honors Ruth F. Parker, the founder and benefactress of The Parkvue Community in Sandusky, Ohio. Ruth was deeply devoted to the residents of Parkvue and the community of Sandusky. Ruth supported both over many years with her generous contributions.

The President’s Circle – $5,000-$9,999

Honors a group of friends who join the president of United Church Homes annually with their contributions at this generous giving level.

Robert & Eleanor Diller Inaugural Circle – $2,500-$4,999

Honors Rev. Dr. Robert Diller, the first president of United Church Homes, and his wife, Eleanor. Rev. Dr. Diller also served as the administrator at the first United Church Homes community, The Fairhaven Community, in Upper Sandusky, Ohio. Eleanor worked as Fairhaven’s dietician and activities director.

The Herbster Circle – $1,000-$2,499

Rev. Dr. Benjamin M. Herbster and his wife, Elizabeth, were generous supporters of United Church Homes. Rev. Dr. Herbster was the first president of the United Church of Christ and served as a Board member for United Church Homes. He asked 10 of his friends to make an annual donation of $100 or more and then invited their friends to join them in this mission. This society later became known as the Society of Stephen. Rev. Dr. Herbster and his wife were also residents at Trinity Community in Beavercreek. The Herbster Circle honors these UCH visionaries.

Matthew & Jane Smith Founders Circle – $250-$999

Honors our founders, Matthew and Jane Smith. Matthew and Jane shared a common vision to create a community that would care for older adults. Their bequest – a farm – was sold to purchase the Barnhouse property in Upper Sandusky that was later known as The Fairhaven Community.

Society of Stephen Circle – $100-$249

Honors the mission of Saint Stephen, the disciple first charged with caring for the widowed and elderly. This giving circle is what was first started as the 100+ club founded by the late Rev. Dr. Herbster.

Make a Difference – Donate Today

From individual donors who support a UCH community or cause to community partnerships UCH has forged across the country, our impact giving contributors makes a powerful, lasting difference in the lives of thousands of older adults.

For more information about impact giving at United Church Homes, please contact the advancement and fundraising office.

An older man and woman stand outdoors, smiling and holding cups. They are dressed casually, and the background has greenery and a fence.