“I have always wanted to go see the nation’s capital. Specifically, as an African American woman, I want to see the museum that talks about the people who have shaped my life,” said Audrey, a resident of Dunn Road Manor, a Lutheran Senior Services (LSS) Affordable Housing Community in St. Louis, Missouri.
While traveling to Washington DC was not in her budget, it was always in her dreams. Recently at age 83 her dream came true!
On May 7th, with the help of Wish of a Lifetime (WOL) from AARP, Audrey was finally able to visit and immerse herself in the history of our nation’s capital and the people who shaped it. She saw the National Museum of African American Culture and History as well as Martin Luther King Jr’s Memorial at the National Mall. She was joined by her god daughter Royce.
Audrey was nominated by Leigh Anne Hoorman, Service Coordinator at Dunn Road Manor, who also is a volunteer with WOL. Leigh Anne nominated the Audrey because she is an “amazing” person who devoted her life to caring for others. Leigh Anne was thrilled for Audrey to have this opportunity.
Audrey grew up in a very modest home in St Louis, where although they did not have a lot of money they were “rich in the heart.” She raised two children solo, working many jobs, and giving back at church. Audrey held various positions to be able to provide for them – an assistant teacher at a daycare, Dietary aid in hospitals, and as a dry cleaner.
“She is a huge history buff. We play Jeopardy twice a month and she’s always there with great answers,” Leigh Anne said. “She wants to learn about history and current events.”
WOL granted the wish at no cost to Audrey and covered her companion as well.
See photos of Audrey’s visit here: Audrey Visits MLK + NMAAHC – seniorwish (smugmug.com)