The Board of Directors for the new parent company of Souderton Mennonite Homes and Dock Woods Community announced on Wednesday, November 26, that the affiliation of the two communities is finalized, and the new parent company will be called Living Branches. Together, the communities that comprise Living Branches serve more than 1,350 residents and employ 600 team members on campuses in Souderton, Lansdale and Hatfield, Pa.
The name was created by Varsity, a leading marketing firm based in Harrisburg that specifically targets the 55 and over population. Varsity collected information from many residents, staff members, volunteers and leaders, which formed the foundation for the new name.
“Living Branches refers to John 15:5, where Jesus tells his disciples that he is the vine and the disciples are the branches, and that if they stay connected to him they will bear much fruit,” explains Edward D. Brubaker, President and CEO of Living Branches. “Our branches are Souderton Mennonite Homes and Dock Woods Community, our strength and inspiration comes from God, and our mission is life-giving to all who live, work and serve in our communities.”
Like both Souderton Mennonite Homes and Dock Woods Community, Living Branches is sponsored by the Franconia Mennonite Conference, an area conference of Mennonite Church USA headquartered in Souderton.
“Through our parent company, Living Branches, we will continue to strengthen the ministries of Souderton and Dock Woods, while also extending the reach of Anabaptist senior care services in southeastern Pennsylvania,” continued Brubaker. “And, of course, both communities are committed to providing consistent, high quality services our residents have come to expect.”
About Living Branches
Living Branches is a not-for-profit organization serving the needs of older adults and families, with roots in the Franconia Mennonite Conference of Mennonite Church USA. It is comprised of two continuing care retirement communities, Souderton Mennonite Homes in Souderton, Pa, and Dock Woods Community in Lansdale and Hatfield, Pa. Through Dock Manor and Dock Village, affordable senior and family housing is also offered to those who qualify for rental assistance. The Living Branches communities employ 600 people who serve more than 1,350 residents.
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