Residents find fulfillment in giving

For residents Art and Sue Bloomer, there are many reasons behind their consistent donations to programs at Presbyterian Manor.

“I do it partly for tax purposes, but I like to support the units that I belong to,” Art said. “Since I live in PMMA, I thought it would be good for us to donate each year.”

Over the past five years, the couple has consecutively donated to the Good Samaritan Fund, the scholarship fund, and the unrestricted fund. Each donation to the specific area helps residents and staff in different ways.

For Art and Sue, providing financial contributions to causes they care about has been a long- standing practice.

“I went to Emporia State University,” Art said. “I’ve donated to the football and basketball program, and recently I’ve taken up soccer as well. Giving has been a part of my life since I’ve been able to do it. There was a time I couldn’t afford to do it, but since I can afford it, I have done it.”

In addition to Emporia State University and Presbyterian Manor, Art and Sue route their donations to other organizations whose missions align with their ideals.

“I didn’t donate until I could afford it, but when I could, I made the choices that made the most sense to me,” Art said. “It’s been nice to be able to do it.”

In his working life, Art rose to the rank of General during a 31-year career in the U.S. military. The work took him and Sue to many parts of the world - including Japan.

Their son also attended Emporia State University, and now lives nearby in Wichita. They chose Presbyterian Manor because it is close to family.

Art has a special fund set up to manage charitable contributions to as many as 20 different organizations. He said it’s important to him and Sue to help financially support those things they care about.

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