Mennonite Weekly Review

GLENDALE, Ariz. — As Donna and Fred Klitzke helped their developmentally disabled daughter, Anna, move into a residence provided by Goldensun Peace Ministries, they felt hope and relief.

Goldensun residents enjoy an awards ceremony Feb. 2 during a potluck at Trinity Mennonite Church in Glendale, Ariz. From left are Jonathon LaBash, resident Anna Klitzke, Christiana Warren, resident Mike Sterrett, resident Alex Pellini (center), executive director Jean June and resident Michelle Schafer. — Photo by Laurie Oswald Robinson

Years of wondering if she would find “home” ended at this doorstep.

The Klitzkes and many parents like them worry a lot when they raise children who are marginalized. Who will help their adult children move away from isolation and into community? Who will understand their sons and daughters have talents and gifts hidden behind their limitations? When they die, who will care for their beloved child?

These were the Klitzkes’ worries before Trinity Mennonite Church began a new ministry in the greater Phoenix area. In 2005, Trinity, with several other congregations and West Coast Mennonite Central Committee, helped Goldensun incorporate as a not-for-profit business to promote the well-being of the disabled.

Goldensun has enabled the Klitzkes to watch their 29-year-old blossom in the light of a faith community that provides belonging, loving protection and opportunities for growth.

“Anna is so much more secure now and feels that others accept and appreciate her for who she is,” said Donna Klitzke, a founding board member. “She is no longer only at home with old people like us who don’t have energy. She is with people her age.

“She and her peers are like sisters. They take pride in their home and have guests in for meals they have prepared themselves. I never thought I would see the day when our Anna was inviting us over to supper in her home.”

Anna Klitzke shares her home with two other peers and with Jared and Angela Stauffer Widmer, a young couple who as “housemates” befriend and guide the residents.

As Goldensun grows, it impacts more lives than its founders dreamed possible. Marlin Hershberger, volunteer director of operations and volunteers, and Jean June, volunteer executive director, said many circles intersect in the endeavor. Those circles include church staff, young-adult housemates and the local Service Opportunities for Older People program, or SOOP, sponsored by Mennonite Mission Network.

The groups cross barriers of differing ages and capabilities to connect with residents who touch their lives.