“Helping others in need is not only a responsibility of life; it is what gives meaning to life.” – Mollie Martin
Developing a culture of servant leadership is what Life Leadership does best. Even at the corporate level, the Life Leadership staff are intentional about making a difference in people’s lives. The Life on Life Initiative has inspired people to truly step out of their comfort zones and selflessly serve the needs of others.
On Saturday, February 27th, the Life Leadership corporate team came together to bless the lives of a population of people that are often neglected due to their quiet presence in society. Anyone who has ever stepped foot into a senior living facility understands that there is a need for love and attention for the men and women who call it home. Outside of those walls, the world continues to turn at a rapid pace, but for those who are confined to a wheelchair, often under the close supervision of a nurse or caregiver, the world seems much the same, day-in and day-out.
That is why the staff at the Life Leadership World Headquarters wanted to organize a morning that would bring smiles to the faces of all those who have ever felt forgotten or who have experienced the sting of loneliness or neglect.
Sunrise Senior Living in Cary, North Carolina provides exceptional care to the elderly who are in need of assisted living, memory care or hospice services. Upon discussion with several caregivers and staff throughout the morning, it is evident that those who work at Sunrise truly care about the residents and love what they do. With three spacious floors of living space, it was not hard for Life Leadership volunteers to spread out and serve wherever and however they were needed.
Several Life Leadership employees and their families participated in this special morning. Whether it was the President of Life Leadership – Rob Hallstrand – leading exercise with noodles, the Marketing Manager – Michelle Turner – coloring and playing catch, or the CEO of Life Leadership – Chris Brady – having meaningful 1 on 1 conversations with those who were sitting alone, there certainly wasn’t a shortage of compassion and love being shared throughout the morning.
“I hope that the wonderful people we visited with, exercised with and sang with were encouraged and uplifted as much as I was. The experience challenged me to stop and remember not to get lost in the hustle and bustle of everyday life and that serving others, like we did Saturday morning, is deserving of my time.” – Rob Hallstrand (President and COO of Life Leadership)
“It was so great to be able to interact with the residents of Sunrise in Cary. I particularly enjoyed getting to know a few individuals personally and to hear their stories. It is amazing how much we can learn from those who have walked much of this life ahead of us, and I have been uplifted thinking about my new friends ever since the event took place. As so often happens in these situations, we go with the intent to serve and try to bless others, but come away thinking that perhaps they blessed us even more! I know that was certainly true of me!” – Chris Brady (CEO of Life Leadership)
One of the highlights of the event was when residents from all three floors gathered together to listen to and participate in a musical performance, led by Life Leadership customer service representatives – Barbara Wolosonowich and Renee Turner. Featuring popular songs from the 40’s and 50’s along with favorite hymnals that everyone would recognize, these talented ladies practiced and prepared to deliver a memorable experience for everyone in attendance!
This is what Steve Kendall had to say about the event:
“One thing that stuck out to me right away was the body language of most of the seniors there. Many were hunched over and heads were down. I had challenged myself before the event to try and view these individuals correctly…to be able to see them under the correct lens. Jesus looked out into the crowds in Matthew 9 and had compassion because the people were ‘weary and wandering, like sheep without a shepherd.’ In other words, He could see through the exterior and view them with the right heart. At the time we intersected these awesome lives on Saturday, you could sense a bit of weariness and wandering. Again, their body language, in my opinion, spoke volumes to that. If you wanted to make a personal connection, it was clear you’d almost have to be on your knees in order to do so. So that’s what we did…”
“…I had the privilege of watching the hearts of the people of our corporate office on Saturday: I watched our CEO give his knee, his ears and his unique conversation while brightening many spirits. I watched our COO play a simple game of catch and light up the room. I watched others color, make puzzles, sing songs and have a cup of coffee. I watched, as many seniors smiled, laughed, clapped and restore some posture in their positions. When the event was coming to a close, my 7-year-old son motioned for me to bend to his level. As I bent over, he quietly whispered to me, ‘dad, I’m really glad I came.’ In just a few simple words I believe he captured what we were all thinking. And as a dad, those were the words I was looking for. He got it. I explained to him afterwards that no video game or Saturday morning cartoon will ever replace the blessing you get from serving others. He agreed. Because of my profession, I often find myself staring through the glass of a Canon lens. I pray God will continue to help me and others see life through a different lens…the lens of eternity, and not just time. I believe THAT lens is the key to having a passion for serving others.” – Steve Kendall (Director of Video Marketing for Life Leadership)
Here are some more great comments shared by several of the Life Leadership staff:
“I especially enjoyed leading Bible study. For starters, it was an honour to be asked to do it and as we discussed scripture there was a reinforcement that God’s word is timeless. There was a considerable age range in participants, but each person was able to reflect on something in his or her life, past and present, that related to the passage of scripture.” – Jay Russell (Director of International Operations)
“We couldn’t have thought of a better way to have spent our Saturday morning. Kerri and I both had a great time. I think we got more from the experience than the people we visited!” – Ryan Renz (Media Manager for Life Leadership)
“The Life on Life event last Saturday was such a great way for me (as well as all of the Life Leadership staff) to serve in the Cary community. Having just moved here, I was excited at the chance to get involved, especially giving back to such an important cause. Seeing all of the residents enjoying themselves at the musical performance was the best part of the day for me!” – Jennifer Headley (Audio and Video tech for Life Leadership)
“I was a little apprehensive at first to go to the corporate Life on Life event. I kept thinking about how I spend 5 days a week (sometimes 10-14 days during convention week) with these people and I was not sure I wanted to give up my Saturday morning, my morning to sleep in, to ‘work’ even more. But, I did and I do not regret it! I really enjoyed watching Chris Brady and his daughter interact with everyone at the retirement community. It was encouraging to witness one of the leaders of Life Leadership ‘practicing what he preaches.’ I cannot wait to do it again!!” – Sarah Gendron (Event Coordinator for Life Leadership)
“I was lucky enough to know my grandparents and great grandparents on both sides of my family and I can’t imagine what it would have been like for them, had they been in a home like the one we visited. Being able to bring happiness to the residents through music and to see their reaction to the songs we picked was very moving and I’m very happy that I was part of it.” – Barbara Wolosonowich (Customer Support Manager for Life Leadership)
“This Life on Life event really brought me back to my roots. Right back to that time when I had a foster grandmother in elementary school. Every week I would go and visit her and the joy she brought to me was so incredible. I never realized that I was making such an impact on her! It was a blessing to be able to bring a few of my boys with me to experience this wonderful mission of fulfillment. As a family, we are not new to volunteering, so when the announcement came out, there was no hesitation from me as I signed up immediately. When my 13 year old son, Jay, said to me, “Mom, can we come back again to visit?”, I knew that this one small act of service will have an enormous impact on so many individuals, including my own children! We are here to make a difference, and we are having fun doing it. I’m ready for the next Life on Life corporate event!” – Michelle Turner (Book Publishing & Marketing Manager for Life Leadership)
“My experience at Sunrise Senior Living Center was both enlightening and humbling. As a young adult, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the long life ahead of me and to not take my time for granted. It felt good to see the smiling faces of the residents especially during the musical performance; that by far was my favorite part. I look forward to participating in future Life on Life events!” – Taslim Kerr (Life Leadership Customer Service Administrative Assistant)
“The Life on Life Initiative weekend was amazing! I hadn’t been in an assisted living for almost 2 years, since my mom passed away. Being there and serving with my teammates, in particular bringing a song and smile back to the faces and hearts of the the lovely elderly, brought something back to me as well. In serving others, you can’t help but reap the overflow of joy that comes when they realize that you came just for them!” – Renee Turner (Life Leadership Customer Support Representative)
“I thought that it was really great for Life Leadership to get involved in Cary. The residents were so happy to see us, even their family members that were there visiting were asking who we were, and if we were coming back because they loved having us there! It was a pleasure to spend the morning with the residents, singing, coloring, and being a part of their Bible study!” – Rachel Hoover (Special Events Coordinator)
Here is a video highlighting the event:
“Volunteering is a valuable experience for both the residents and volunteers. Our residents are incredible people with wonderful stories to share. When volunteers come in, sometimes they have a preconceived idea about what Assisted Living is. You see the interactions, smiles, conversations, and almost instantly relationships are built. Volunteering with older adults provides a unique and dynamic experience that I am so happy Life Leadership was able to enjoy! Thank you for your enthusiasm, time put into planning the event, and passion for working with our residents! They truly enjoyed your group coming into the community and sharing your time and talents.” – Beth Neuhauser (Activities and Volunteer Coordinator at Sunrise Senior Living)
The Life Leadership corporate team is dedicated to setting people functionally free through the Life on Life Initiative. Not only does the company support literacy by donating funds to various literacy organizations from the purchase of Life Leadership subscriptions, but several staff members volunteer their time to tutor adults and teach them to read with the Triangle Literacy Council. Additionally, the corporate team plans to regularly participate in Life on Life selfless acts of service throughout the local Life Leadership headquarters community.
Fausta Baptiste says
I am very proud to be part of this organisation. You guys lead by example.
Thank you so much
#LoveLifeleadership #TeamOneMission #financialfreedom #haitioneheart
Lloyd Weiler says
That is awesome!!
Greg Johnson says
Reading this article and having participated in events where serving others is the focus I know the joy the Life Leadership staff felt. You can only experience this type of joy by serving others, expecting nothing in return, but receiving so much. Both groups of lives are enriched, those being served and those who served.
I am proud to be associated with a company with this servants heart. Thank you Life office for leading by example.
Kristine Militello says
AWESOME! I LOVE THIS COMPANY!
So honored to be a member of Life Leadership. Boots on the ground making a difference. What a blessing-for everyone.
Judy Hodgson says
This is a beautiful video!! Neighbors taking care of Neighbors. Looked like a Win Win for everyone!!
Dan Hawkins says
I am so proud to be partnered with such great people. The staff at LIFE Leadership continually go above and beyond both in their professional capacity and in their lives. Chris Brady and Rob Hallstrand lead by example and choose to serve others over self.
Dean Frey says
I am excited to be affiliated with a corporate team of people who have serving hearts. God bless you all!
Pat Tefel says
Having experienced serving people in their twilight years for several years, I was excited to see how the Life office members brought sunshine to this assisted living. The residents will talk about that day for a long, long time.
Great Job!!
James McKay says
Can’t wait for Michigan’s next Life On Life initiative event!!!
Cheryl Slavinsky says
I loved reading the heartfelt comments by those who participated. Thanks for documenting the event so well with the photos and video and sharing with us. Bravo!
Beth says
How cool. What a great thing for you guys to do!
Jeff Westra says
Smiles on the faces on the elderly is truly one of the greatest joys in life. I love that LIFE Leadership has an entire program to give back, and serve in the communities that we live in! It’s a great blessing to be part of every aspect of this company.
BP says
Hey Gang,
So proud of all of you. Serving others requires sacrifice. Your continued dedication to brighten someone else’s day is what we all should follow as an example.
God Bless
BP
David Bjork says
We love the Life on Life initiative and the way it improves the lives of the less fortunate. Great job to the LIFE corporate team for making a difference in your community and in the lives of so many others with what you do every day!
Tom olds says
I am so blessed to be part of this organization, it is truly a blessing to see the leadership of this company making an impact in people’s lives. May God continue to bless the many lives He has called all of us to reach out to through selfless service.
All 4 one. …one 4 all
Aron Radosa says
What a wonderful, loving act! So many people talk about ‘it would be nice’ and ‘ we should’, but very few do the walk of their convictions then talk about it. The Life Leadership staff did just this. It is very humbling to be partnered with the amazing company of Life Leadership. They are setting people free both in information/media and through the action of inspiration and healing. Those in Cary that were loved on by the staff gave us inspiration to do it around the world! Thank you!
Aron
Scott Coons says
It is such an honor to be part of an organization that is so committed to being an example of what true sevant leadership is, putting others before yourself. This article is a snapshot of the example we have from our top corporate leaders that is carried throughout the world by those in the field leading LIFE on LIFE initiatives across the world. I know that those giving their time and efforts were just as blessed, if not more so, than those receiving the visit.
Kortney Cox says
I LOVE the heart and soul of LIFE Leadership! What an AMAZING example of giving back! Life on Life brings LIFE to lives!! You can feel the joy just LOOKING at these photos!! Honored to be associated with such greatness!!!
Michael Gorski says
This is awesome!!! Way to go Life Corporate office!! You guys and gals are absolutely fantastic individuals. It is such an honor to work with such an amazing company that’s making a positive difference in so many areas. Great example of servant leadership.
BRENDA HATCHER says
I LOVE THIS! My father in law was just recently admitted to a nursing home while recovering from a broken hip. Roy visited him every single day. The staff could not believe it. We made some wonderful friends with the residents. We shared LIFE books with them, brought them home made cookies and cakes. They couldn’t wait for us to come back. They are lonely. The staff do what they can, but they truly are busy. Some of them would love to interact more but their schedule doesn’t allow it. This is an amazing idea. I hope others throughout LIFE Leadership choose to frequent a care home in their area. These folks are a wealth of knowledge and want nothing more than to know someone cares. Most are dropped at the facility and never see their family again. LIFE ON LIFE can become their family. Proud of you all. What a great idea. Let’s start Care Home Fever and start a chain reaction across the world. Who will be the next group to LIFE ON LIFE a care home? GREAT JOB ALL OF YOU!
Tom and Sherri Elenbaum says
Thank you for leading by example! It is a joy to serve in Life Leadership with you
Dennis Squires says
It’s great to be part of an organization that is focused on Servanthood Leadership at every level! Setting a standard of selflessness is something rarely seen today! Great job!
James Scott says
What a wonderful example of servant leadership. I am honored to be a part…
Brandon J Perry says
You guys are amazing. It’s a true blessing to work with a company where the servant leadership culture is represented both in the field and in the office.
Kirk says
Simply wonderful! I am so proud to be part of a company that has a heart to love, serve and make a difference!!
Jenny Nail says
I am soo blessed to be a part of this awesome mission/ ministry/ purpose called Life. Thank you to all the leaders and friends from headquarters who make who we do possible…..truely honored.
Theresa Buggia says
LOVE being associated with LIFE LEADERSHIP!!
John Mossner says
What a heartwarming event! Great job being the salt and light for these folks! Sounds like the benefits were mutual!
Sherry Powers says
I’m so Blessed to be a part of a company that serves with a heart to help people every single day. They never cease to amaze me! Awesome job Life Leadership Staff!! You guys are a wonderful example of what giving looks like!!!
Dana Jensen says
Awesome Leadership , Warming Harts and Souls of those in need . A fine example of what a perfect neighbor would be .
Chris says
I am so proud to be affiliated with this company. Not only do they give a dollar per subscription to a charitable cause they also donate their time. Life leadership has changed my life in so many ways that I struggle finding words to describe it. And I see it happening across the world. Super proud to represent Life Leadership!!
Holly Lambert says
Thank you for serving those Senior most who have generously given their lives to helping friends and family yet in the busyness of today’s society many seniors are at times either left out or forgotten. I am sure the Seniors and Leadership of Life were able to connect in a special way. I agree, I am glad to be part of a business organization that helps people in need, LIFE does just that connects with all types of people sometimes just listen or help them smile. Thanks for serving others everyday.
steve carnrs says
It’s a real honor to be involved with an organization that helps people at all levels !
Holly Burke says
I am so blessed and proud to represent Life Leadership!! It’s the most amazing, servant group of people I’ve ever been around. And a group I’m happy to have my kids around!! True serving is doing something for someone else, fully knowing that they can never pay it back to you. Seeing the smiles on these peoples faces is payment enough!! Life Leadership brings hope back into people’s lives!! I thank God that my family was introduced, can’t imagine where we’d be without it!!
Tom Popejoy says
What an inspiration to all! An awesome way to show the leadership side of Life. May God bless you all!
Blaine Terrill says
Way to lead by example! Service is the best way to love others and bolster ones spirits, isn’t it?
Sherrie Clark says
We are entering an era where our success will be measured in how many people we have been able to serve! I am so greatful to be a part of such a loving and giving organization!
Esther Mullett says
Such a blessing to be a part of something so amazing, love the way we reach out to other to brighten up their lives.
Craig says
Great group of people, serving many other people !!
Kelly S says
Hearwarming
Kim Decker says
What we do matters, love Life Leadership
Ron Wilson says
I am blessed to be a part of this company. To learn truth, the integrity of its members and the willing to do for others and supply the opportunity to succeed from what ever level you are at to the level you want to get to if you are willing to do the work.
M A Peggi Williams says
God’s Richest Blessings for you all. And for all of us who call this organization our Leaders. Matthew 25:40. Thank you for your examples.
Bruce Williams says
This is so awesome!! I have the pleasure of working part time in a senior living center and it blesses me so much to brighten their lives with smiles and conversation. God bless all of the volunteers! Life Leadership is AWESOME!!!
Lisa Campbell says
This is so awesome! I love being a part of a great company. Our senior citizens are the people who need attention too. They don’t get company like they used to and so having the Life Leadership staff visit is the most important thing they’ve had in a while. I love Life Leadership!
sue says
To everyone who participated in this life on life event, you have impacted so many lives that day even more than you will know. GOD BLESS YOU!!!
Reginald Shorey says
That’s what’s so great about LIFE Leadership. Always helping and serving others. Changing people’s lives one home at a time.