A Pilgrim Place resident recently cautioned our community to temper a tendency to boast about achieving certain levels of environmental sustainability with an appropriate dose of humility. Sure, we are probably the only freestanding retirement community in the United States to have three LEED certified buildings.We’ve reduced water usage in the last decade by about 50%. Our homes and apartments are full with a waiting list of approved applicants. Staff turnover is only around 10%. Our revenues and reserves have never been healthier despite the uncertain economy. But we probably shouldn’t rest on our laurels too comfortably.

As I review the past few years and look forward to our 100th Anniversary in 2015, I understand the importance of maintaining a humble perspective. After all, Pilgrim Place grew from a modest idea of nurturing missionaries on furlough and eventually of fostering the continuing pilgrimage of service for retired church and non-profit workers without a lot of fanfare. And yet, we have made a consistent but quiet impact on the lives of countless residents, their families and friends all over the world who have been touched by the example of our intentional community.

The challenges of the future call us forward still to be creative stewards of this community, our planet and our vision for serving others. We could not consider embracing such uncertainty without the support and encouragement of those who share our commitment to continually challenge the status quo and nurture sustainability on many different levels. Indeed, it is the support of those outside our gates, as well as within, that evokes our most humble reflection.

And so we offer our gratitude and thanksgiving for your partnership even as we consider the wonderful responsibilities we share with you toward sustaining hope.

 Bill Cunitz