Donor Ambassadors

John Barbie

A survivor of a Communist concentration camp, John Barbie immigrated from Europe to the United States in 1948 with only a dime in his pocket.

After a life defined by hard work, he became a successful self-made man, retiring in 1984 after a 26-year career with the Leo Burnett advertising agency in Chicago. He worked just as hard in his spare time, traveling the world and indulging his passions for opera, poetry and jigsaw puzzles.

John returned to a familiar neighborhood on the northwest side of Chicago when he moved into Resurrection Retirement Community (RRC), an independent living facility. He not only became a resident but the architect of a dream. Within the first year, he had an idea that would improve the daily lives and safety of his fellow 500 residents.

With a generous contribution of more than $300,000, John financed the installation of ventilation fans and a lifeline alarm system. In a very real way, he was changing lives and saving lives.

"We appreciate John's gifts," said Sister Kathleen Stadler, RRC's Executive Director and member of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth. "Through his generosity, residents have cooler rooms on hot summer days and increased safety in the facility."

Donors like John are the pillars that support our dreams and improve the lives of the people and communities we serve.

"I look forward to supporting the next project to improve the quality of life at RRC," John said. "I hope to inspire other people to give, too."

A charitable gift annuity is a fast and simple way to make a gift today and still enjoy a lifetime income. For more information, contact Moira McGinley, Resurrection Development Foundation Office of Gift Planning Services, at 773-665-5087.