When Ellen Gilbert joined the Barclay Friends Board of Directors five years ago, she brought with her a deep commitment to service and a belief in the power of community. Now serving as Board Chair, Ellen helps guide the mission and values that shape life at Barclay Friends. With her husband, they have chosen to give generously to further the impact Barclay Friends has on the local community. In a recent conversation, Ellen shared her thoughts on what philanthropy means to her and why it matters in the life of Barclay Friends.
What does the word philanthropy mean to you on a personal level?
I believe that it is the responsibility of each individual to help make the lives of other people better by making gifts of their time and/or money. Some people are able to give both time and money to good causes while others may only be able to do one of these. And each person has to decide for themselves the appropriate amount to give of each. I have a good friend who recently turned 90 and he taught me a lot about philanthropy. He has let his life speak by giving generously to non-profits that really make a difference. Additionally, he encourages others to give generously. I also believe that it is the responsibility of anyone who sits on a non-profit board to give as generously as they can to that organization.
Can you share a moment when you felt deeply connected to the mission of Barclay Friends through your giving?
I joined the Board of Barclay Friends five years ago. We were in the middle of the pandemic and in the process of finishing the new Preston building. I joined the board because I am a Quaker and wanted to support a Quaker institution, and I wanted to support a non-profit in West Chester where I live. I did not have prior experience in senior living but after speaking with other board members and taking a tour, I felt deeply drawn to Barclay Friends with its focus on professional excellence, compassion and kindness, and continuous improvement. That is why I joined the board and why my husband and I decided to give an immediate gift to the campaign to build the Preston building and to the Annual Fund. We give every year to the Annual Fund knowing that our unrestricted gift will be put to good use.
What inspires your ongoing support for Barclay Friends?
Barclay Friends has a deep commitment to their mission which everyone on the Board supports. They are guided by enduring Quaker values of Simplicity, Peace, Integrity, Community, Equality, and Stewardship. When I walk around the building and see the talented and committed staff caring for the residents, I know that Barclay Friends is making a real difference in their lives and the lives of their families. They are transforming the experience of aging and bringing out the gifts each person has to offer.
How have you seen philanthropy make a tangible difference in the lives of residents or staff?
Due to generous donations from many donors, we were able to complete the Preston building in 2020, and it provides a welcoming and nurturing environment for the residents. Early this year we converted the Goshen neighborhood from nursing care to memory care to better meet the growing need for memory care in our community. And we renovated the front lobby and made other updates to the buildings. It is through the generous donations of many people that we have been able to make these capital improvements. Additionally, many donors support the Horticulture Fund which connects residents to nature through the many gardens we have on the property.
Learn more about Memory Care at Barclay Friends.
How has serving on the board at Barclay Friends shaped your perspective on the role of philanthropy in older adult communities in general?
Many people donate to their school and do so on an annual basis due to their strong emotional connection to that time in their lives. Asking current families to to an older adult community like Barclay Friends is a bit more challenging because they often are already providing emotional and sometimes financial support to their loved one. This is why we are always looking for donors who may have a connection to Barclay Friends in some other way, and who believe in our mission and want to support our amazing program. Every donation, no matter the amount, makes a difference.
Learn more about giving opportunities at Barclay Friends.
What would you say to someone who is considering making a gift to Barclay Friends for the first time?
My husband and I give annually because we know Barclay Friends is making a real difference in the lives of its residents. Barclay Friends has an awesome staff who are talented, committed, and compassionate, and the Board is focused on looking ahead to the future so we can maintain this incredible community that has been in existence since 1893. I know we have an outstanding program, and I hope you will join us in helping to fulfill our mission with a generous donation.