The art of giving back

Her father always wanted her to be a nurse, but Jeannette Parsons found a way to pursue her passion while still helping others.

“I’ve been teaching art for 32 years, and often do classes with children or seniors. I love giving back to others through art,” Jeannette said. “I live in Lee’s Summit, Mo., now, but Parsons is my hometown. Whenever I come back, I like to visit Parsons Presbyterian Manor, and it was a joy to bring my art class to the residents.”

Jeanette not only has a love for Presbyterian Manor because it’s in her hometown but because it was her parents’ home for many years.

“My parents, George and Vera Mattox, lived at Presbyterian Manor for many years. My mother passed away 14 years ago, and my dad two years ago. But I got attached to other residents and the staff, and I always enjoy my visits.”

During one recent visit, Jeanette hosted an art class with a purpose. She and a group of residents created two paintings, which will be sold to the highest bidder at the upcoming Good Samaritan Art Auction. Presbyterian Manor’s Good Samaritan Program benefits residents who have outlived their resources.

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“We really had a great time creating these pieces, titled ‘Tree of Life.’ They can be sold separately or go together. I’m not sure which way they’ll do it yet. But either way, these pieces were created with love. In fact, the residents enjoyed doing it so much, I’m going to return to help them create a piece they can leave on display at the Presbyterian Manor.”

Thank you, Jeanette, for your gift of time and talent, and please join us for the art auction where you can bid on these resident-created pieces!

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