Water testing can indicate the health of a stream or pond!
On May 8, 2026, a group of Homestead Village residents brought learning to life by organizing and hosting a memorable field trip at Rader Park for Ms. Aubree Lockard’s 5th grade class from Rohrerstown Elementary School. What made the day especially meaningful was that it was entirely resident-driven; a reflection of the creativity, passion, and lifelong commitment to learning that continues to define life at Homestead Village.
An Idea Sparked by Experience and Passion
The concept began with Homestead Village residents Doris Robb and Linda Bear. Linda, a retired teacher, saw firsthand how meaningful outdoor learning experiences can be through her grandson’s enjoyment of Brubaker Run at the nearby Church of the Apostles’ Rader Park.
Recognizing an opportunity to bring that experience to local students, Linda received help and guidance from fellow resident Doris Robb, also a retired educator, who has organized similar educational field trips for years for the Fulton Elementary School through the Church of the Apostles. Then, with support from Homestead Village’s Environmental Action Resources (EAR) Committee, the idea was transformed into a fully coordinated, hands-on learning experience.
Connecting Generations Through Shared Place
Beyond education, the initiative was rooted in something even deeper: connection.
Residents intentionally designed the day to strengthen relationships between Homestead Village, Rohrerstown Elementary, and the Church of the Apostles; neighbors linked by both geography and community spirit. Brubaker Run, the stream that winds through all three, became a unifying theme for the day, symbolizing how nature connects people across generations, and inspiring younger generations to care for the future of our streams and water ways.
A Day of Discovery and Hands-On Learning
The field trip was thoughtfully structured to blend exploration, science, and fun.
Students began with a bus tour to visit the nearly 400-year-old Grant Noll Sycamore tree on Old Tree Drive, then followed the path of Brubaker Run as it winds through the community. Upon arrival at Rader Park, they rotated through interactive learning stations, including:
• Stream Studies, where students explored the water and identified macroinvertebrates
• Water Quality Testing, comparing stream and pond samples
• Nature Walks and Crafts, encouraging observation and creativityAfter lunch at the pavilion, the group gathered for a special presentation by Lisa Sanchez of Lancaster County Parks, who shared stories about local wildlife and introduced students to animal pelts from the region.
A Community Effort, Led by Residents
The day’s success was made possible through the collaboration of many, but its leadership remained firmly rooted with Homestead Village residents. In addition to Linda and Doris, volunteers included residents, school staff, church staff, parent volunteers, and two Pennsylvania Master Naturalists.
Funding support, including a grant secured through Thrivent and additional donations, helped bring the experience to life.
A Reflection of Life at Homestead Village
This field trip is a powerful example of what makes Homestead Village unique. Residents don’t simply enjoy opportunities, they create them!
Through initiatives like this, they continue to share their knowledge and talents, build meaningful connections beyond campus, and contribute to the broader Lancaster community
It’s all part of what it means to live in a place where you can continue to grow, engage, and give back.
At Homestead Village, residents truly THRIVE WHERE YOU ARE® while making a lasting impact on those around them.
Students learned about how water quality affects what creatures live in the creek from naturalist Dean Evans.
Students observe a turtle sunning itself on a log in the pond at Rader Park.
Water testing can indicate the health of a stream or pond!