Lighthouse Celebrates 50 Years of Service

When Lighthouse Vocational Services (LVS) began in 1975, it had more founders than participants. Then called Lighthouse Rehabilitation Center, the organization was envisioned by Norman Hahn, Melvin Martin, John Sensenig, and Ben Weaver, who sought to create a place where individuals with disabilities could grow, connect, and gain a sense of accomplishment.

On July 25, LVS, now located at 144 Orlan Road, New Holland, celebrated 50 years of service to its participants. The event, which was given the theme "Created to Shine," included a number of speakers, a legacy ribbon-cutting ceremony, and tours of the facility.

Liz Ackerman, executive director of the Northern Lancaster County Chamber of Commerce, served as master of ceremonies for the event. "Today marks a significant milestone not only for Lighthouse but also for the community," said Ackerman, who noted that an organization that has done such important work and faced and overcome adversity over the years, while continuing to be guided by Christian principles, deserves to be celebrated. "As you experience what Lighthouse is for those it serves - not only the participants, but the parents, the families, and the business community - you will see that Lighthouse truly is a gem within our community," Ackerman stated.

Ackerman introduced Landis Zimmerman, president of the LVS board of directors, calling him a "true servant leader."

Zimmerman then offered the invocation, beginning by quoting Matthew 5:16. "Our theme for this is Shine ... 'Let your light so shine before men that they might see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.'" Zimmerman credited God with bringing LVS to this milestone. "(God) has provided good leadership and dedicated staff," said Zimmerman. "Thank You for wisdom and guidance to provide individuals with places to work and play that they might be all that You want them to be."

Pennsylvania Rep. Keith Greiner read from a citation from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. He also noted that the work of LVS is exemplary of the many blessings of eastern Lancaster County. "This is just one of the ministries with which God has blessed this area," he said. Greiner pointed out that the programs of LVS now have more than 100 staff members serving about 250 individuals, helping them to "know the fulfillment of accomplishment and prepare for lasting employment." "These programs are designed to enhance quality of life for all," he said.

Stephen Ranck, who represented congressman Lloyd Smucker at the celebration, brought a citation for the congressional record from the U.S. House of Representatives. He noted that LVS' attributes of "selflessness and hospitality represents what makes Pennsylvania's 11th district so great," and he wished LVS another 50 years of success.

When it was time to introduce LVS executive director Gary McMullen, Ackerman described how McMullen took action to be sure the decor for the event did not break the budget. "He shared this morning that they wanted to have lots of flowers around the stage," stated Ackerman, who went on to explain that McMullen planted and tended to the many coleus plants that loaned their beauty to the venue. McMullen, who has helmed the ministry for about a year, gave credit to LVS staff members whom he said provide "customer care and leadership to facilitate growth to people with disabilities." "Our team members are experts in supporting employment goals and presenting real work opportunities for our participants," he said. In discussing the LVS mission, McMullen turned to Esther 4:14, sharing the words of Mordecai to his niece, "Who knows but you have come to this royal position for such a time as this?" he read, adding, "Esther was strategically placed to have influence on King Xerxes. She responded, and the Jewish nation was spared." McMullen likened Esther's actions to the founders of LVS and the growth of the organization over the last five decades, noting that LVS participants work not only in the Orlan Road building, but also for more than 30 area nonprofits and in more than 200 businesses with which LVS collaborates. "We have much to celebrate," he said.

Lydia Messner represented the office of Pennsylvania state Sen. Scott Martin. She noted that the senator "has a heart for this community, especially those with disabilities." She read from a citation that lauded LVS' "strong reputation for the highest quality of service throughout its history and steady adherence to the principles of fairness, reliability, and integrity."

Marshall Miller, communications director for state Sen. James Malone, spoke as well, noting that Malone has two adult children with autism. "(Malone) knows capstone moments like this are exciting, but (also that) it takes a lot of day-in-and-out care and love to give the necessary support, and he appreciates the work you do," stated Miller.

One highlight of the celebration was when Lisa Landis, known as the host of WJTL's "Kid's Cookie Break" show, interviewed her nephew JJ Ator, who is an LVS participant. Explaining that she and JJ speak on the phone daily, she asked Ator about his favorite things, including his favorite food, meatballs; favorite video game, Mario Kart; and what he likes about work. Attendees learned that JJ does not like fire alarms but enjoys taking the blue bus to LVS, and that he signed the weather as part of the television production team at Conestoga Valley High School while a student there. JJ demonstrated signs for the sunny weather on the day of the event and the rain expected later in the day. He was then called upon to work with McMullen to cut the legacy ribbon while surrounded by other speakers and staff members from LVS.

Readers who would like more information about the organization may visit http://www.lighthousevoc.org.