A Beacon of Light: The History of Harbour Lights CHEER
Like a lighthouse guiding ships through stormy seas, the Harbour Lights CHEER center in Lewes has been a steadfast beacon of support for seniors for decades. While the journey has had its challenges, the center has always fulfilled its mission of service.
Navigating Troubled Waters
In the early 1980s, the Lewes CHEER center faced a major crisis. What began as a celebratory bus trip to Florida for 90 members turned into an unfortunate scandal when a check to the bus company bounced. An investigation revealed a case of embezzlement by an assistant director, leading to a period of negative publicity. However, the members of the center rallied together, embarking on an intensive eight-month fundraising campaign to ensure every person who lost money was fully reimbursed. This incredible act of solidarity restored trust and showcased the community’s true character.
In 1983, member Helen Roblenski, who had spearheaded the reimbursement campaign, was honored as Delaware’s Senior Volunteer of the Year, a testament to her unwavering leadership and dedication.
A Community of Character
The Lewes CHEER center has always been home to unique and inspiring individuals. In 1987, member Rupert Hall, a Coast Guard veteran who served on the historic Lightship Overfalls, was profiled for his daily commute to the center on his three-wheeled bike. He chose this mode of transportation after a surgery, preferring to stay off the road for the safety of his friends and neighbors. His story, like that of the center itself, highlights resilience and a commitment to serving others.
In 1990, the center brought a new experience to its members when baby chicks were hatched from an incubator, a simple but joyful event that brought everyone together. The center also embraced technology, hosting a demonstration of new electronic voting machines in 1996, a full 23 years before they were widely replaced.
Fellowship, Fun, and Vital Services
By the 2000s, the center was thriving. A Christmas celebration in 2003 drew 80 people for a hot turkey luncheon and caroling, led by director Nancy Dodd. The center continued to expand its offerings, with a pancake breakfast and garage sale in 2005, and a focus on wellness in 2006. As member Ed Figurski explained, the center was vital for socialization. “I need somebody to talk to,” he said. “If you’ve got somebody to talk to, you’ll live longer!”
In the following years, programs included AARP Safe Driver training and presentations on topics like reverse mortgages and fall prevention, with local experts sharing their knowledge. .
In 2013, under the leadership of director Beth Elzey, the center began an annual fundraiser, highlighting available transportation services for seniors. In 2017, “Paint Night” offered a chance for artistic expression and social fun, while 2018 saw the launch of a program providing coupons for free fresh fruits and vegetables. By 2019, new director Cristina Tunnell started weekly “50 Cups of Coffee” sessions to discuss all the programs available.
Of course, 2020 brought the suspension of activities due to the pandemic, but true to its namesake, the Harbour Lights CHEER center continues to be a guiding light for its members, a place where they can always find their way home.