Easterseals NH Renames Headquarters in Tribute to John A. Samenfeld
November 2, 2017
Manchester, NH – On November 1, 2017 Easterseals NH hosted a ribbon cutting and renaming ceremony for its renovated 555 Auburn Street headquarters in Manchester. Easterseals NH President and CEO Larry Gammon was joined by PROCON Owner’s Mark and Sally Stebbins and Manchester Mayor Ted Gatsas. The building was renamed the “Easterseals NH John A. Samenfeld Center” in honor of longtime Easterseals NH supporter, board member and PROCON Vice Chairman John Samenfeld.
It was a gratifying conclusion to the “Big Ideas for Building Independence Capital Campaign” that began with a $500,000 gift from PROCON and the Stebbins Family in 2016. PROCON’s generous donation was made as a tribute to John’s 32-years of service to Easterseals NH. The matching gift challenge contributed to the community momentum that raised nearly $2.6 million dollars. The building’s overhaul expanded their Oral Health Center, allowed for more programs to be offered and improved administrative office spaces.
The newly refurbished Auburn Street facility enables Easterseals NH to maximize their core mission-based programs featuring children, adults, veterans, seniors, workforce development and dental services. It has also allowed them to expand their program spaces, consolidate the majority of their programs under one roof and provide wrap-around services for individuals and families.
John Samenfeld took to the podium to express his gratitude. He said “Thank you to the Board of Directors for approving the naming of this building. Thanks to the many people I have worked with over the last 32 years and the giants whose shoulders I have stood on to get here. There are so many wonderful and supportive leaders of our great organization and community. And, I certainly would not be here today without the generosity and support of the Stebbins family and my PROCON family. They are the real heroes here today.”
John has been a strong supporter and champion of Easterseals NH’s programs and services for more than three decades, including 12 years as a board member. John contributed significantly during his years of service by chairing various committees of the board and campaigns. He was a consistent leader in securing funds for their programs – with tremendous impact on those served by Easterseals.
The Stebbins family and PROCON, along with John, have a long and rich history of supporting Easterseals. PROCON CEO and Chairman Mark Stebbins expressed how meaningful it has been to support Easterseals over the years. “For many generations, our family has seen it as our purpose to give generously to our community. Our employees and senior management have always supported that philosophy and John, in particular, embodies the desire to make sure he/we leave behind a positive impact on those less fortunate and in need of help by their fellow man. As a result of how proud we are of John and his many philanthropic endeavors, we felt it fitting to honor him with the naming of this newly repurposed Easterseals’ building that will house a significant number of people and programs that will make a difference in so many lives.”
“The outpouring of support from the community for this campaign and renovation has been tremendous,” said Larry Gammon. Due to this generosity, Easterseals NH now offers the state’s largest array of services under one roof for children, adults, and seniors with disabilities or special needs.”
All in all, the ribbon cutting ceremony was the grand finale to a 12-month journey celebrating 80-years of history, a brand renaissance and a building’s transformation. Together, these milestones have galvanized Easterseals NH’s core goals – of providing exceptional services to their clients, and changing the way the world views and defines those with disabilities.
