Gibson has served as a pastor for almost 40 years in various parts of Pennsylvania. Thirteen years ago, active church member Carl Schlappi asked Bill to join his foursome at the Albright Care Services Golf Challenge, an annual event supporting the Benevolent Care Fund at Albright, which helps residents who have outlived their financial resources by providing for essential needs. Bill has now participated in the golf challenge for 12 years. Golfers are asked to raise at least $500 dollars and Gibson said, “I think the first year, I raised a little over $800. For the last six or seven years, I’ve been over the $1,000 mark. Last year was my best ever, as I raised more than $2,500. The cumulative total for [our foursome is] about $57,800. We are looking forward to this year’s event and hope to raise even more.”According to Rev. Sue Jamison, Director of the Annual Fund at Albright and coordinator of the Golf Challenge, Bill has cumulatively raised $15,013 in the 12 years he has been a fund-raiser golfer. “The secret to this success is building a growing list of donors,” she said.
Bill also served on the board of the RiverWoods Auxiliary, along with his wife Rose. Bill served as treasurer, while Rose served three years as vice president and three years as president. In addition, the couple volunteers at the front desk of the Adam’s Center for Rehabilitation at RiverWoods on Saturday afternoons.
When asked why he spends so much time at RiverWoods helping in various ways, he said, “I have met people who after they have retired have just kind of given up. Then after a few years have gone by, they start to moan and groan and say I used to be able to do something and I chose not to. I have always said it is better to do the best you can, while you can, for as long as you can, for the most people you can, than to not do it and say I blew my opportunity.”
Bill is a musician and often visits nursing homes with his wife Rose, to perform for the residents. He plays guitar and she sings. He also serves as a guest pastor at area churches about 25 Sundays a year. Bill said, “I have always felt if God wants you to help other people, he’s going to give you the inclination and the desire to do that. We just thank the Lord each day we’ve got another day to do what we can do.”
Pastor Bill Gibson is a shining example of being called to serve, and Albright is proud that he is part of our family. Albright invites you to continue your mission by joining us at one of our six locations. Visit www.albrightcare.org for information on senior living, day programs, giving or volunteering.
