New
Vision for Vasa
Vasa Children’s Home, an
elegant 80-year-old structure in Red Wing, provided shelter for orphaned
children early in its history, and later, served children with
developmental disabilities. With changing times, a new vision is on the
horizon.
Vasa’s new plans are to
redevelop the Anderson Building into a recreational and training facility
as well as a regional historical and education center.
“It’s very exciting!” said
Mary Harty, development officer with Lutheran Social Service.
“We are finding creative new ways to be good stewards of the generous gift
that was given to us more than 75 years ago by the A.P. Anderson family.”
Harty explained that the
Anderson Building is currently used for administration, and that young
people with developmental disabilities are served in four cottage-style
homes on the property. After almost 80 years of service, the building no
longer complies with certain building codes. Basic systems, such as
heating and plumbing, need to be upgraded or replaced.
Still, the beautiful structure
is ready to be molded into a new asset for service in a new century to
continue serving children with disabilities and their families both
directly and indirectly — with an indoor recreation space for youth, and
new training center for staff and volunteers. Minnesotans will also have
an opportunity to visit this historical treasure in Red Wing to learn how
services for children with special needs changed with the times and
evolved for over more than a century in Minnesota.
Harty said that Lutheran
Social Service kicked off a major fund appeal in early fall to gather
community financial support needed for the project. $500,000 is the target
goal. For more information, please contact Mary Harty at 1.800.987.0034.
