Pictured from left are Cardinal Corporate Vice President Randy Hall, K21 Board Member Dana Krull, community living participant Terri, Cardinal CEO Jane Wear and 1st Source Bank Vice President and Trust Officer John Elliott, representing the Esther Pfleiderer Charitable Trust. (Photo provided)

WARSAW — Dozens of people with specific needs are going to have an easier time getting around thanks to a new van at Cardinal Services. The accessible, lift-equipped van was purchased with the help of grants from K21 Health Foundation and Esther Pfleiderer Charitable Trust. The van will be the primary transportation for people in Cardinal’s community living program to attend medical appointments and community activities.

According to Cardinal Vice President Randy Hall, although program funding covers operation of the van, it does not cover the actual cost of the van itself. In need of another vehicle, Cardinal turned to K21 and Pfleiderer, whose grants provided $15,000 and $5,000, respectively, toward the purchase.

As a provider agency serving people with disabilities, Cardinal is required to assure that each person is able to access the community for medical services as well as to participate in activities of their choosing. One person who is happy for the specialized vehicle is Terri, whose cerebral palsy limits her mobility but not her interest in doing things around town. This summer, she anticipates being able to attend more concerts, going to the fair and shopping. Terri also enjoys working at the community soup kitchen on Wednesdays and attending church. These are all things she will do with ease thanks to the new van.

K21 Health Foundation exists for the benefit of Kosciusko County citizens to ensure health care services are provided and to advance prevention and healthy lifestyles. For more information about the K21 Health Foundation, call (574) 269-5188 or visit www.k21foundation.org.

The Esther Pfleiderer Charitable Trust was established by Esther Pfleiderer to assist charitable organizations in Kosciusko County in improving the quality of life in the county. Pfleiderer was born and raised in Warsaw and taught math for 39 years in the Warsaw school system. She was also very active in the community, serving on the boards of the Salvation Army, Warsaw Community Public Library, Kosciusko County Community Foundation, Kosciusko County Historical Society and the ministries of the First Presbyterian Church. In 1982, Pfleiderer was recognized as Warsaw’s Woman of the Year. For more information, contact John Elliott at 574-268-1207.