Homeland Center’s renovated library named in honor of philanthropist Ted Lick

Large print books, a touch screen computer and a new cooking area are among the renovations to Homeland Center’s library made possible through a generous donation by the wife of the late Harrisburg philanthropist Ted Lick.

Members of Homeland’s boards of trustees and managers recently joined with Kelly Lick in dedicating the revamped library as the Ted Lick Room. Kelly Lick’s donation of more than $150,000 also allowed for the remodeling of a skilled care room and the purchase of a handicapped-accessible van.

“It did not take long when you looked into Ted Lick’s eyes to see where his heart and his passion lay,’’ said Barry S. Ramper II, Homeland’s president and CEO. Ramper recalled that Homeland used many products from Ted Lick’s Harrisburg Paper Company and that Lick would personally call to ensure all was well.

“That personal touch clearly was as at the heart of the person who built a tremendous company and was a tremendous person,’’ Ramper said during the dedication, which included unveiling plaques honoring Ted Lick that will be placed in the library and skilled care room.

In making the donation, Kelly Lick continues her husband’s legacy of supporting a host of business, fraternal and community service organizations. Ted Lick’s generosities lead to his being named Philanthropist of the Year by the Association of Fundraising Professionals in 2004.

Morton Spector, vice-chair of Homeland’s Board of Trustees, said Kelly Lick’s gift was among the first Homeland received after creating the 1867 Society of Homeland. The society was formed to ensure the center remains financially able to continue its tradition of caring for residents regardless of their resources.

“Ted Lick loved Homeland and as his health declined, it was our privilege to have him as a resident on three different occasions,’’ Spector said. “Here he captured the hearts of our staff and fellow residents just as throughout his eighty-plus years his spirit warmed and inspired the lives of those who knew him.’’

Ramper said that in today’s challenging health care environment, contributions are critical to maintaining Homeland’s goal of providing the best environment and highest quality of care.

The 1867 Society of Homeland was established to encourage and recognize major gifts. There are a number of ways to support Homeland’s endowment, including but not limited to: estate gifts, such as bequests and life insurance policies; charitable IRA rollovers; charitable gift annuities and trusts; and gifts of real estate.

“Donations enable Homeland to maximize our ability to provide charitable and benevolent care,’’ Ramper said. “In the last fiscal year, that care exceeded $2 million.’’

Peggy Purdy, who chairs the Board of Managers, thanked Kelly for her support and said the renovated library, which included a new cooking area, will add to the quality of life for Homeland’s residents.

“The Ted Lick Room will be the site of family gatherings, bingo and art classes, movies and pizza parties, just to name a few of the opportunities it holds for our residents, their families and friends,’’ Purdy said. “Knowing your late husband, it is my sense that nothing could have pleased him more than to know that residents, regardless of their physical limitations, will have a place for fun and relaxation.’’