For the past two years, Passavant Retirement Community received five-star status with Morrison Management Specialists, a premiere contract food service provider that coordinates meals for Lutheran SeniorLife.

One of the provisions in achieving and maintaining this five-star rating was to be involved in a worthwhile community service project.

And boy, did Passavant get involved.

The entire dining services staff at Passavant decided to initiate an ambitious recycling program that involved saving soft drink cans that would eventually be cashed in at a recycling center.

“Our dining services staff began to save pop cans in February 2008 and by year’s end, we had quite a collection,” said Christina Castello, general manager of dining services for Lutheran SeniorLife’s communities.

“Our staff had the majority of input as to where the money should be directed. It was great to see the commitment and enthusiasm of the department on this project, and I think it instilled a real sense of pride and accomplishment.”

To date, Passavant has distributed more than $830 to three organizations: the Southwest Butler County Food Cupboard, the Buffalo Township Police Department Canine and the Lutheran SeniorLife Foundation/Benevolent Care.

“I think what Passavant has done is a double good deed,” said Sandy Milo, director of the Southwest Butler County Food Cupboard, whose organization received a $300 check from Passavant in February. “It helps keep refuse out of landfills and it puts money back into the community to help others. I truly admire Passavant’s persistence and dedication.”

This article was submitted by Passavant Retirement Community.