Dear Friends,
A few months back, we had a scare in our largest Marist Brothers’ retirement home. Maria, our amazing registered nurse who cares for our elderly and disabled Brothers, heard an unexpected sound coming from the front hallway. Since it was noon and the Brothers were all in the dining room having lunch, Maria couldn’t imagine what was causing the noise. She gingerly peaked around the corner and saw a stranger standing there. It turned out that the intruder meant no harm. He was simply looking for our high school’s main entrance – which is adjacent to the retirement facility.
However, the story doesn’t end there. A similar situation happened three weeks later. And then again the following month. The recent increase in “uninvited guests” was alarming, and clearly we needed to be more vigilant about security measures.
It was time for immediate precautionary steps to protect our elderly and disabled Brothers’ safety.
So, I decided to install a security system immediately. The new system includes five security cameras strategically placed around the building’s exterior and a secure locking system for all exterior doors. Entry into and out of the building now requires a special key fob.
It’s a near-perfect solution. The only drawback is how to fund our new security system. I’m not sure how – or if – we can pay for this. The secure locking access system cost us $9,773. The security cameras came to $3,000. When all was said and done, keeping our Brothers safely out of harm’s way put us back $12,773.
Today I ask for your support. Please help us cover this absolutely necessary, yet completely unbudgeted, expense. Your gift – in whatever amount you can afford – will mean so much.
There is another very important reason for the new security system! Several Brothers in this retirement facility are diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s – and “wandering” is a concern. Did you know that more than 60 percent of those with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia wander off at some point? As you can see, the security system not only keeps intruders out…it also keeps our beloved Brothers inside – safe and sound.
Our senior Brothers’ safety always has and always will come first – without question. ?But now I’m staring at two enormous invoices. I’m facing a financial emergency, and I urgently need your help to cover the $12,773 cost of our new security system.
I have faith that you’ll support my decision with a gift. And please know that whatever amount you send – whether it’s $15 or $150 – will make a difference. It’s like the two nickels traveling with my letter. One nickel alone buys almost nothing these days. When you add another nickel, the total doubles. In the same way, if every Marist Brothers’ friend sends what they can, I’ll keep increasing my total until I have the full $12,773 needed to cover my Brothers’ safety.
While the Brothers understand that the new secure locking access system and security cameras were an absolute necessity, they’re terribly concerned about extending our budget beyond its limit. They realize how important your gift is and they’re anxiously waiting to show their appreciation. So, please! Remember to complete the enclosed prayer intention slip and send it along with your donation. When your gift arrives, the Brothers and I will thank God for your support and include your intentions in our prayers, for you and your loved ones.
During the past few months, my Brothers and I have gained a new appreciation for safety. So as I close my letter, I pray that God always keeps you out of harm’s way. May you be free from danger and your days field with safety peaceful safety.
God bless you for your kind generosity,
Br. Hugh P. Turley, F.M.S.
Director of Development
