FORT WAYNE – October is National Residents’ Rights Month and an event, “The Power of Together”, raised funds to support the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program (LTC Ombudsman Program) which exists to live out its mission of resident advocacy.
The event held in Parkview Field’s Suite Level Lounge included dinner, drinks, a silent auction, raffle and live music by Adam Strack. The community was able to come together to celebrate the work that LTC Ombudsman Program has done for resident advocacy.
Preceding the event, Lewis received letters from residents and their families regarding their thanks for the work of the LTC Ombudsman Program. One of the letters wrote, “We will be forever grateful to you for all you accomplished on our behalf. You represented our mother as if she was your own mother,” while another letter wrote, “You were the first person to actually listen to our story and hear our need. You made us feel like someone finally cares and you helped us so much.”
“While we’ve made incredible strides, the work is far from done. The needs of our community continue to grow, and we need your help to meet those challenges head-on,” said LTC Ombudsman Program Executive Director Zanzy Lewis. “Tonight, I ask you for your generous support to ensure that our program can continue its vital work – advocating for those who need us most, whose voices are often overlooked.”
The LTC Ombudsman Program, a nonprofit serving Allen County and nine area counties, advocates for residents of long-term care facilities who feel their rights are being violated. The organization addresses care-related issues and empowers residents and family members to advocate for themselves or their loved one.
“Every year the fundraiser seems to get better and better,” said Lewis. “We are seeing more people fight for residents’ rights, and I think people are becoming more aware of what we do for the community. After hearing everyone’s stories, how could you not want to fight for basic resident rights?”
To learn more about the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, visit their website: https://www.doingthegood-ombudsman.org