Wartburg Awarded the Fred E. Lietz Mission Project Award
Dr. David J. Gentner, Wartburg President pictured with Dan Brown, Vice President for National Lending for LCEF[/caption]
On Nov. 10, Lutheran Church Extension Fund (LCEF) proudly presented the Fred E. Lietz Mission Project Award to Wartburg for its Berkemeier Living Center project. This new building, which is devoted to seniors with memory care issues, will be a state-of-the-art facility and a project LCEF was blessed to finance. The Berkemeier Living Center is one more example in Wartburg’s rich history of caring for seniors in their community. The award was presented at the 2023 Annual Meeting in St Louis, Missouri.
The Fred E. Lietz Individual Ministry Award is named after the LCMS’ first Executive Secretary for Church Extension, who later served as LCEF’s first president after incorporation in 1978. LCEF is a Missouri nonprofit membership corporation and has funded projects of all types including construction, refinances, land acquisition, business acquisitions, capital improvements, and operational loans for LCMS entities such as life plan communities, social services agencies, school associations, and congregations.
“There are many people to thank for enabling this project to happen, but the Lutheran Church Extension Fund is at the top of the list. Please know that the 2023 Fred E. Lietz Mission Project Award, with all that it stands for, is a proud moment for our organization, and on behalf of our board of directors, thank you.” Dr. David J. Gentner.
The Berkemeier Living Center was financed by LCEF and is named in honor of Wartburg’s second president, Reverend Dr. Gottlieb C. Berkemeier, who served as Director for thirty-six years. The design approach to building compliments the unique character of the campus’ architecture, topography, and neighboring buildings. A residential household model has been employed in the planning of the building to provide more intimate surroundings for residents, staff, and families. Other considerations include keeping short walking distances, utilizing large windows with enhanced views, and maximizing the beneficial effects of natural light. These features, combined with high efficiency building systems will ensure a rich, healing environment for living.
Each Household features its own Living, Dining and Kitchen spaces as well as smaller gathering spaces such as the Sunrooms with sweeping views of the surrounding community. The first floor features a communal Lobby/Gallery space for small gatherings and for display of Wartburg history and Berkemeier artifacts. This level also includes a larger event space, music therapy room, and designated areas for service, management, staff, and support spaces. The building will be LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) certified by the U.S. Green Building Council. Attaining LEED certification signifies that a building is exemplary in conserving energy, lowering operating costs and being healthy for occupants. Financed by LCEF, the building was designed by KDA Architects. The Construction Manager was Consigli Construction, and Lehrer-Cumming was Wartburg’s Owner’s Representative. McLaren Engineering provided Civil Engineering.
Wartburg is a Recognized Service Organization (RSO) by the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod (LCMS).
About Wartburg
Wartburg, located in Westchester County, NY, offers integrated, comprehensive senior residential and healthcare services. Unlike conventional retirement communities, Wartburg provides a wide range of services to both residents living on their beautiful 34-acre campus and people in their own homes. From independent, assisted living and award-winning nursing home care to inpatient/outpatient rehabilitation, home care and adult day care services, their continuing care approach has earned them a trusted reputation. Wartburg also provides caregiver support at every stage with an array of options to find the level of care that considers the whole family. Wartburg was named one of the “Best Nursing Homes in New York State” by U.S. News & World Report for the seventh consecutive year in 2022.
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