BKD: Our Generous Partner
For over 21 years, BKD has been an active partner with The Villages. From supporting our annual Family Night at Victory Field since 2006 as the presenting sponsor, to employees making personal donations, BKD team has shown their commitment to enriching the lives of the children we serve.
“The level of time, generosity and service BKD provides to The Villages has been invaluable,” said Sharon Pierce, President and CEO of The Villages. “The most wonderful part of this partnership is how it has evolved over the years with some of the staff at BKD making personal commitments to our organization that extend beyond the work of the company.”
For example, Debi Ladyman, who retired from BKD, is now a member of The Villages Board of Directors.
“The leadership and passion demonstrated tirelessly by Sharon Pierce, is truly inspiring. That same passion is resonated throughout the whole organization.” Ladyman says. “I am honored to do whatever I can to help The Villages in meeting the critical needs of vulnerable children in Indiana.”
BKD Partner Andy Rinzel and Daniel Waninger, a Director at BKD, provide the expertise in coordinating The Villages’ audit each year. They consider it a privilege to serve staff, children and families at The Villages.
“Sharon and The Villages’ team truly live the mission of their organization and go above and beyond daily to serve those that need them most,” says Rinzel, who has worked alongside The Villages for 17 years. “The Villages refuses to cut corners or shortcut services as a result of external pressures. They find a way to make sure those in need receive the services the Villages is capable of providing.”
Waninger has served The Villages with BKD for 13 years. As he learned about the traumatic experiences of many of the children in need of services, Waninger says he gained a deeper appreciation for his own childhood. “We often don’t realize how blessed we are to be born into the situation many of us are, and how significant of an impact this can have on your life,” Waninger says.
The Villages welcomes the opportunity to partner with individuals and organizations as we work daily to provide support to thousands of vulnerable children. If you are interested in partnering with The Villages, please email Sarah Cline, Director of Development, SCline@villages.org.