Monarch Landing Residents Distribute Record Employee Appreciation Fund

December 22, 2025

Residents at Monarch Landing senior living community in Naperville, along with The Springs Health and Rehabilitation Center at Monarch Landing, have once again demonstrated their deep gratitude for the staff members who provide daily care, kindness, and dedication.

Each year, residents express their appreciation in a meaningful and tangible way through the Employee Appreciation Fund. During the holiday season, residents donate to the fund, which is then distributed to hourly employees. Because staff members are not permitted to accept individual tips or gifts, the resident-led fund offers a thoughtful and inclusive way to say, ‘thank you.’ This year’s fundraiser was themed Team Monarch: The Best, which truly reflects the way the residents feel about the employees.

At the conclusion of the 2025 drive, residents raised a record-breaking $227,606. The funds were distributed among 354 hourly employees based on hours worked throughout the year, with additional bonuses awarded for years of service. Resident volunteers personally wrote each check. A celebratory gathering was held during which department managers presented the checks to staff members.

Many employees shared heartfelt thanks in return. “It’s like Christmas every day here,” said Burney Yeargin, maintenance technician. Sara Richmond, dining director, added that she was “blown away by your generosity. This is not something you need to do. It truly reflects a reciprocal relationship.”

The resident-run Employee Appreciation Fund committee, led by Jackie Plourde, also included residents Jim Alexander, Kate Carmichael, Johnnie Gebbie, Diana Kasper, Jeanette McKinnon, Marge Marek, Rick Saulig, Judy Studtmann, Linda Svejcar, and Karen Ventura.

The record amount raised reflects the strong, family-like bond between residents and staff at Monarch Landing. As echoed by the employees, everyone is grateful for Monarch Landing being a truly special place.