Author: Friendship Community Development Team
Meet the Team – Residential Managers

Crystal - Started in 2019
Meet Crystal Horst – Residential Manager of Willow Acres Home at Friendship Community. She joined us in 2019 as a Direct Support Professional in our two Lebanon homes, before taking on her current role. Crystal's favorite aspect of her job is working with the Individuals. From fun-filled outings to Hershey Park and Hershey Chocolate World, to the peaceful moments spent with them, she cherishes every interaction. Crystal chose to work at Friendship Community for a simple reason - to be surrounded by individuals who offer a breath of fresh air in a world filled with competition and chaos.

Ashley - Started in 2021
Meet Ashley Brittingham - Starting as a Direct Support Professional at Friendship Community, Ashley has since worked at two other homes and is now the Residential Manager at our Graystone Terrace home. What she enjoys most about her job is the ability to make a positive impact on the individuals' lives every day. Her treasured memories with the individuals include taking walks, having picnics, enjoying ice cream on hot summer days, and attending the Friendship Community Golf Tournament. Ashley is a natural caregiver at heart, being the eldest of five siblings and a loving mother herself. That's why she chose to work at Friendship Community.

Lindsay - Started in 2013
Meet Lindsay Weaver - Residential Manager at our Clearview and Valley View homes. Since 2013, she has held various positions in different homes, starting as a Direct Support Professional, then a Medical Support Professional, and finally a Residential Manager. She is committed to providing the Individuals in her care with a variety of enjoyable and memorable experiences. One of her fondest memories was when she married in 2021 and many of the Individuals she had supported over the years attended the wedding. For Lindsay, working at Friendship Community has a very personal significance. In her early years, she endured a traumatic experience and was fortunate enough to find the support she needed. She asked herself afterwards what she wanted to do with her life. Shortly after, while working at a grocery store, she met an Individual from Friendship Community and, after a few weeks of conversation, realized that she enjoyed interacting with them and this was the path she was meant to be on.

Heather - Started in 2018
Introducing Heather Waters – Heather Waters joined our team in 2018 as a Direct Support Professional and was later promoted to Assistant Manager at our Fairview home. She then accepted the position of Residential Manager. Heather's favorite moments during her time here include having pool parties with the ladies and the team at Fairview, as well as helping them get ready for their day with energizing dance parties in the morning. Seeing the growth in the ladies on tasks and goals they are working on is one of Heather's greatest joys. Heather's passion for serving and supporting Individuals with their everyday lives is what brought her to Friendship Community.

Beverlie - Started in 2007
Meet Beverlie Blake – Residential Manager of River View Home. With 17 years of experience in various positions across two homes, Beverlie thrives in her role supporting Individuals and working alongside her team. One of her fondest memories on the job was taking an Individual out for a ride. When they had hit a bump, he opened his mouth so wide and bursted with laughter. Beverlie was elated to see him smile and laugh. Her passion for working with people is what inspired her to work at Friendship Community, and she takes pride in her work every day.

Lisa - Started in 2014
Introducing Lisa Black – Lisa Black joined the Friendship Community team as a Direct Support Professional in 2014. She has worked in four different homes during her time as a DSP, ultimately leading to her role as Residential Manager. Her favorite aspect of the job is making a positive impact on the lives of the individuals she supports. Lisa finds solace in their personalities and gratitude towards life, which helps her overcome even the toughest days. One of her fondest memories was when an individual placed their hand on her shoulder and prayed for her when she was experiencing arm pain. Lisa and the individuals she works with also enjoy “making it rain” during cherry blossom season in the back yard of their home. Lisa always knew she wanted to work for an agency that made a difference in the lives of individuals with Intellectual Disabilities, but was unsure where to start. Her journey began when an Individual from Friendship Community walked into the barber shop where she was working and she learned about Friendship Community. Lisa is grateful for this opportunity and continues to seek guidance and wisdom from God while working at Friendship Community.

Josephine - Started in 2022
Meet Josephine Ayrton - Josephine is the Residential Manager at our West Orange home. She began her time here at Friendship Community in 2022 and started out as the manager. She has had the privledge of helping out other managers at other homes throughout as well. Josephine says that her favorite thing about her job is that she gets to make a difference in not just the lives of the Individuals but their families as well. In the year that she’s been at West Orange, she has had various interactions with the families and truly see how much they appreciate Friendship Community. She has felt blessed to see growth in the team as they work together to better the lives of those they support.

Danika - Started in 2022
Introducing Danika Stauffer – Meet Danika Stauffer, the Residential Manager of Redwood Circle at Friendship Community. Danika started her journey at our St. Stephen's home as an Assistant Manager. Her favorite part of the job is the opportunity to make a positive impact on the Individuals she supports. Her fondest memories include seeing the Individuals exploring new instruments, visiting the zoo, or simply enjoying a car ride while listening to music, each with a big smile on their face. Danika continues her career with Friendship Community due to the care and kindness that Individuals receive, and the positive impact on their lives.

Tina - Started in 2016
Introducing Tina Kulp – Tina is the Residential Manager of our Miller Drive home. She began her time here in 2016 as a DSP and then moved onto be the Manager. Tina’s favorite thing about her job is building relationships with the Individuals and Team Members here. It also brings her joy to see the Individuals succeed and advocate for themselves. One of her favorite memories here is when she went to Night to Shine with the Individuals of the home and got to see their excitement about the limi ride and red carpet. Tina says that she was unsure about working here at first because she had never done anything like this before but she knew that she wanted a job based on relationships. So Tina gave it a shot and has been here ever since!

Diane - Started in 2013
Meet Diane Rudy - Diane joined us in 2013 as a DSP at our Timerbline residence before advancing to a managerial role. She then trasnfered to our Summerlyn home as their manager where she currently works. Diane finds the most joy in her job through her interactions with the individuals and witnessing their new experiences. One memorable moment for her was observing an Individual guide a new Team Member in cooking. The sense of accomplishment the Individual felt from teaching was truly special. Diane continues to be impressed by the talents and strengths of the Individuals she supports. Diane stumbled upon Friendship Community by chance, as she noticed the sign on the Main Office building during her daily commute. Seeing a job opening, she decided to explore opportunities here. During her interview, she was touched by the positive interactions within the team and the Individuals she met. Even after a decade, Diane's heart remains dedicated to the incredible individuals she works with.

Shana - Started in 2021
Meet Shana Drenning- the Residential Manager at our Conestoga Gardens residences. Shana loves advocating for the individuals she works with daily. Her favorite moments revolve around celebrating birthdays at the Conestoga Gardens home, where everyone comes together with excitement. Starting a career at Friendship Community was inspired by the meaningful interactions with the Individuals, making her journey worthwhile and enjoyable. Shana finds it rewarding to experience the highs and lows alongside these Individuals and sees blessings in encountering Jesus in them every day.

Angel - Started in 2013
Introducing Angel Parkhouse - Angel joined our team in 2013 and has worked in seven different homes, holding various roles. Currently, she serves as the Residential Manager at our Sheep Hill Road residence. Angel finds joy in laughing with the Individuals and witnessing the pure happiness in their eyes. Her fondest memories include taking walks with them, listening to their stories, and finding inspiration in their moments. Angel sought a job where she could make a difference and bring happiness to others, and, in return, the Individuals have brought joy into her life during her time at Friendship Community.

Serena - Started in 2021
Meet Serena Newcomer - Serena joined Friendship Community nearly three years ago in 2021 as a DSP. After working at Willow Acres as a DSP, she transitioned to the role of Manager Assistant. She lent her support to several other homes before eventually becoming the Residential Manager at Sweetbriar. Serena's job satisfaction stems from connecting with the Individuals and appreciating their unique qualities. She expresses gratitude for the joy and blessings they bring into her daily life.

Donna - Started in 2021
Meet Donna Wolfe - Donna is the Residential Manager of our Manehim home. Donna began her journey in 2021 as a DSP, serving in different homes across Friendship Community. Her passion lies in creating a positive influence on individuals and bringing smiles to their faces. Donna views each person she assists as unique and holds a special place in her heart. She describes her experience at Friendship Community as being part of a close family.
2023 Irvin Enck Award Winner
This award is in loving memory of a thoughtful and wise Director of Facilities here at Friendship Community. Irvin Enck, who passed away in 2014, was an exceptional leader who left a mark on this Organization. The Executive Team awards a leader who has exemplified outstanding leadership over the past year.
It is my pleasure to present the 2023 Irvin Enck Leadership Award to Milt Stoltzfus! Milt has been an employee at Friendship Community 33 years in various roles, however for the past 15 years, he has served as our Spiritual Nurture and Community Life Advisor. Milt’s role is unique not only in title but also with what he does at Friendship Community for the Individuals. He is the glue that holds Friendship Community together through the good, the bad and the ugly.
Milt does a wide variety of things at Friendship Community from monthly outings with Individuals, a weekly online church service, monthly activity nights and a monthly worship service. Also, when and Individual is hospitalized, he is a face that will brighten their day and calm the storms within them. Milt not only calms the Individuals, but his fellow Team Members look to him for spiritual guidance when needing to navigate our Individuals complex needs.
With his 33 years of service Milt has been able to be the constant in an ever-changing world for our individuals. We have seen Individuals moods change on a dime with his presence. Milt views all Individuals as whole humans and his friends.
Over his years of service Milt has had meaningful influence on the lives of Individuals supported by Friendship Community as well as on many Team Members as well.
He truly is gift from God to Friendship Community and we are so blessed that he has chosen us for his Ministry.
This award was presented on January 22, 2024, by Mary Ellen Farber, Chief Executive Officer, during Activity Night. Milt received standing ovations from the Individuals and Team Members in attendance and a special appearance from his wife, Lois!
Congratulations to Milt for winning the 2023 Irvin Enck Leadership Award!
2023 Gochnauer Award Winner
This award honors the legacy of Mahlon Gochnauer, a founding Board Member, who served on the Friendship Community’s Board for over 20 years. Mahlon and his wife, Doris, had a son with disabilities, named Michael.
Nominees for the Gochnauer award must serve as a Direct Support Professional, who exemplifies and encourages spiritual growth, advocates for community inclusion, and enables Individuals to Impact the World with Their Capabilities.
The Gochnauer Award for the Direct Support Professional (DSP) of the Year goes to Jillian Olszewski. Jillian is reliable, motivated, a problem solver, compassionate, and empathetic. She began her career as a part time DSP at one of our Ephrata homes and soon accepted the role of Manager Assistant. Although she excelled in this position, after a few months, she realized that in this role, she missed the interactions with the Individuals she had had before. She stepped down to become a full time DSP and she shines in that role just as she did as Manager Assistant.
Jillian is compassionate and empathetic and has a strong desire to meet the Individuals needs and to help them achieve their goals at home as well as in the community. Recently one of the Individuals decided that she no longer cared to attend the current church. Jillian helped, not only this Individual, but all of them find a new church to their liking. Jillian involves the Individuals in decision making, whether it is on a community outing or an at home activity. One of her many talents is styling hair, painting fingernails and applying make-up. The ladies love the extra pampering, and she makes them feel special.
Jillian always has an ear to lend when one of the ladies is feeling down or just needs to talk. She selflessly gives of her time and goes the extra mile for the benefit of the Individuals. This is evident by the big smiles and happy dispositions. The Ephrata home is truly blessed to have Jillian as a Team Member.
This award was presented on January 22, 2024, by Sherri Colton, Director of Advancement, during Activity Night. Jillian was cheered by the many Individuals and Team Members in attendance – especially the three ladies that she directly supports every day!
Congratulations to Jillian for receiving the 2023 Gochnauer Award!
2023 Haverstick Award Winner
This annual award honors Charles and Laura Haverstick’s 3 deceased sons Charlie, David & Glenn, all of whom had disabilities and were served by Friendship Community. The Haverstick Award recipient is nominated by current Team Members. Recipients are Individuals supported by Friendship Community who have shown tremendous growth in the following areas:
- Giving back to the community
- Overcoming significant obstacles
- Surpassing previous capabilities
The Haverstick Award for Individual of the Year goes to Todd Hambleton. Todd moved into the Friendship Community Leola home in February 2019. Prior to moving into our home, he recently had cochlear implant surgery, due to his profound deafness, in one of his ears. His speech was limited, and he mostly read lips signed, or used one or two words to communicate. He was shy is social settings and did not want to participate in social activities.
During the past 5 years, Todd has had a team of staff helping him with his communication skills. Speech therapists, communication specialists, Leola staff, and his parents. With Todd’s eagerness to learn, patience, perseverance and practicing daily, he has moved mountains. Todd is now speaking in full sentences, articulating his words and vastly widened his vocabulary.
Todd received his 2nd cochlear implant last May and he is running leaps and bounds. His is asking to participate in social events and activities and meeting new friends. Todd has volunteered for many organizations throughout his life, including his home church’s food bank, Brethren Village, and Meals on Wheels. We are all so proud of Todd’s great accomplishments and cannot wait to see what his future holds.
This award was presented on January 22, 2024, by Lisa Black, Residential Manager, during Activity Night. Todd’s family, Team Members and housemates were in attendance that evening to support him as he won this momentous achievement.
Congratulations to Todd for receiving the 2023 Haverstick Award!
2021 Awards Ceremony!
2021 Awards Ceremony
The Haverstick Award
This award was presented (on the video) by Abby Morris, Director of Operations
This annual award honors Chester and Laura Haverstick’s 3 deceased sons Charlie, David & Glenn, all of whom had disabilities and were served by Friendship Community.
The Haverstick Award recipient is nominated by current Team Members. Recipients are Individuals supported by Friendship Community who have shown tremendous growth in the following areas:
- Giving back to the community
- Overcoming significant obstacles
- Surpassing previous capabilities
This individual moved into Hossler Road awhile back and has continued to overcome numerous obstacles. This Individual has faced various changes throughout her time at Hossler, as her current housemate has gone through some significant health issues. Fortunately, they have recently returned to work at EARS after being closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to returning to work, they have also continued other activities and outings that they enjoy doing. Though this Individual has gone through ups and downs throughout the past year, she has done so with a smile on her face and a positive outlook on life.
This year's Haverstick Award goes to ... Tracey Weaver!
Congratulations Tracey!
The Gochnauer Award
This award was presented (on the video) by Abby Morris, Director of Operations
This award honors the legacy of Mahlon Gochnauer, a founding Board Member, who served on the Friendship Community’s Board for over 20 years. Mahlon and his wife, Doris, had a son with disabilities, named Michael.
Nominees for the Gochnauer award must serve as a Direct Support Professional, who exemplifies and encourages spiritual growth, advocates for community inclusion, and enables Individuals to “Impact the World with Their Capabilities”.
This year's Gochnauer Award recipient works at our Westwood home and is known for her kindness, generosity, and willingness to go the extra mile. This recipient goes above and beyond in providing new opportunities for the Individuals, such as, feeding the ducks at the park, going to the planetarium, enjoying the animals at Lake Tibias, providing craft and art opportunities and so much more! She is grounded in her faith and is willing to pray and talk to the Individuals about theirs. This Team Member strives for a safe and secure environment for the Individuals and assists with things when needed with a cheerful and positive attitude.
This year's Gochnauer Award goes to ... Jill Ann Gormley!
Congratulations Ann!
Irvin Enck Leadership Award
This award was presented (on the video) by Sherri Colton, Director of Advancement.
This award is in loving memory of a thoughtful and wise Director of Facilities here at Friendship Community. Irvin Enck, who passed away in 2014, was an exceptional leader who left a mark on this Organization. The Executive Team awards a leader who has exemplified outstanding leadership over the past year.
This recipient truly showed his leadership skills throughout the last couple years as the Organization went through various changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic. During this time, him and his team renovated numerous office spaces that ensured safety for all staff. In addition to serving at the offices, him and his team assisted with multiple projects in our homes, such as making sure all of our aging Individuals were provided with the resources and materials needed, providing meals for our homes who were in lockdown due to exposure, and making sure all homes were stocked with necessary PPE items. This recipient leads his team in unity and goes above and beyond for all team members and Individuals and does it with a smile on his face.
This year's Irvin Enck Leadership Award goes to ... Caleb Cunningham!
Congratulations Caleb!
Olivia Cunningham Education Fund
Almost two years ago, a special fund for trainings and in-services was created in memory of Olivia Cunningham, a former Friendship Community Team Member who recognized the importance of learning and applying new skills and information. She appreciated new-found knowledge and saw the benefits first-hand. We were able to interview a Team Member who has been the recipient of this fund; below you will find her answers on how this fund has benefitted her work experience.
[Question] Team Member name:
Louise Barton
[Question] Job Title:
[Louise] Administrative Generalist
[Question] Number of years employed at Friendship Community:
[Louise] Over 16 ½ years at Friendship Community
[Question] How did you use monies from the fund?
[Louise] To attend a seminar, entitled “The Extraordinary Administrative Professional”, and to receive the accompanying handbook.
[Question] Why did you want to attend the class?
[Louise] I was attracted to this training because it sounded like it would really apply to my position at Friendship Community. Since I work closely with Caleb Cunningham, in Facility Services, and since I was an elementary teacher for 24 ½ years, before coming to Friendship Community, I was especially honored to be the first recipient of funding from The Olivia Cunningham Education Fund!
[Question] What did you hope to learn?
[Louise] I looked forward to learning some new ideas, skills and techniques that I could apply to and enhance what I already do at Friendship Community, as I work with Team Members in various departments. It was my hope as well to share what I learned with my Administrative Services Team.
[Question] How did your attendance in this class help you in your job / role? How did your job benefit from the training you attended?
[Louise] The seminar and the manual provided me with much “food for thought” as I consider and strive to apply what I have learned to my job and to my life!
The seminar covered skills related to relationships with others in the workplace, various forms of communication, problem-solving, organization and time management (including event-planning and effective delegation), stress management, etc.
I really liked the handbook, entitled Administrative Professionals Handbook - 42 Ways to Bring Out the Best in Yourself and Others! The book is fairly easy to read, includes many real-life stories/examples and is loaded with great advice! My opinion is that it would be very helpful for any Administrative Professional, not just for Administrative Assistants/Administrative Generalists like myself. Even though it says “written for women, from a woman’s point of view,” it also says “Anyone who is responsible for coordinating, managing, or being an effective member of an office team will benefit from this serious evaluation of how you think, how you look, how you act, how you live, and how you deal with others.” The book is all about “building and strengthening your people skills, learning how to put yourself first, and get more done in less time.” It’s “a practical book, where you learn to handle your own quality control.”
Thank you, Louise, for your willingness to answer these questions for us!
Want to donate towards the Olivia Cunningham Education Fund and help Team Members like Louise? Your gift to this fund enables Team Members the opportunity to attend valuable and insightful trainings at no cost to them. You can make your donation via mail, phone or online! https://www.friendshipcommunity.net/donate/
Happy Monday! We hope you all have a wonderful week!
~Stephanie
Meet Ed and his Team Member, Don.
Tonight, they’re eating baked chicken, peas and sweet potatoes for dinner. Smells good, doesn’t it? But, what may seem to be a simple dinner is actually the culmination of in-depth conversations and decision-making processes. See for Ed, Don and the other Individuals at Ed’s home, this dinner really started a week ago, if not longer.
The housemates sat down together at the kitchen table and planned out their breakfasts, lunches and dinners for the week. With the help of Don, they talked about nutritiously-balanced meals and healthy snack options. They looked through the grocery store circulars and created their shopping list. Prior to COVID-19, they would go grocery shopping together as a unit. What is often a mundane task for some is actually a learning opportunity and social outing for others.
With your gift of $227, you can provide Ed and his housemates not only a week’s worth of groceries, but more importantly, crucial opportunities to learn valuable life skills and be accepted as responsible members of the greater community.