IT WAS A LOOK TOWARDS THE FUTURE, WHILE REMEMBERING THE PAST
BURLINGTON, Ky. — The plan was to look ahead — yet they never forgot the past.
The Point Arc celebrated their 19th residential home Grand Opening with a ribbon cutting Thursday afternoon at 6125 First Financial Drive, Burlington, Ky.
“Today,” said COO Brandon Releford to the assembled crowd, “is about much more than cutting a ribbon. Today, we are celebrating home, community, opportunity, and the belief that every person deserves a place to belong.”
And they will belong – and live – in the newly-created 5,529-square foot, seven bedroom home.
That home will always have a special place for Judi Gerding – Founder and current President of the 54-year-old Covington-based non-profit agency.
That home — for now and forever — will be The Stephen Richard Gerding Home – the late son of The President. He passed earlier this year.
At a young age, Steve was diagnosed with Rubinstein-Taybi Syndrome. Rubinstein-Taybi Syndrome is a condition characterized by short stature, moderate to severe intellectual disability, distinctive facial features, and broad thumbs and first toes.
Additional features of the disorder can include eye abnormalities, heart and kidney defects, dental problems and obesity. These signs and symptoms vary among affected individuals. People with this condition have an increased risk of developing types of noncancerous brain and skin tumors.
The initial plan – The Yung Family Foundation Advanced Care Home – was inspired by the legendary Boone County High School Football Coach, Owen Hauck.
Gerding family members and The Yung Family looked to the past to honor The President – and her late son.
That past also included the Hauck Family dream – Owen, Shirely and son Doug – to transfer their severely disabled son – and brother – Glen, home from the Oakwood State institution in Somerset, Ky.
Glen was a resident there from 2003-2005.
“Between the years 2003 and 2005, Boone County High School alumni – co-hosted by former National Football League star Shaun Alexander – raised $149,000 to support The Point Arc’s Advanced Care Home,” said Gerding. “Their efforts were inspired by Coach Hauck,” she continued. “He had a dream to bring Glen home from the Oakwood State Institution.”
Glen passed after the third year of fundraising, in 2005 – and the project was put on hold.
“Before Owen’s passing in 2016, we made a promise – to complete the home in honor of him, Glen, Shaun, his former players, and the Goal Line Slam Committee,” Gerding recalled.
That promise moved closer to reality when an anonymous donor gifted the 2.37-acre property where the home stands.
The now Stephen Richard Gerding Home will provide specialized care, adaptive equipment, and accessible living spaces for six residents whose needs continue to evolve as they live longer, fuller lives.
“This home represents a tremendous investment in the lives of the individuals who will call it home,” said COO Brandon Releford to the assembled audience. “It is a place where people can build friendships, experience independence, create memories, and live their lives with dignity and purpose.”
Additionally, the new home is constructed with six-foot wide hallways – to accommodate wheelchairs – and accessible finishings.
“The residents will occupy the new home between now and Thanksgiving,” Gerding said.
The future – as well as the past – look great.
The Point Arc
