Who is Thomas Landing named after?

Thomas Landing is named for Tom Doran, founder of Governmental and Educational Assistance Corporation, a non-profit provider of low income and elderly housing campuses.

Tom’s inspiration came from his father, who was also named Tom Doran, who in the latter part of the last century, was in need of senior living services.  As the younger Mr. Doran sought a placement for his father he found a curious thing. That was if a person was wealthy, they had choice.  If a person had no money, there were options.  If a person was somewhere in the middle ground, options and choices were limited.  Tom founded GEAC to solve those problems.  Today, GEAC is the sole member of nonprofit communities throughout the United States, providing homes to thousands of moderate and low income families.

Through his actions, Tom not only founded GEAC, but his inspiration to others was instrumental in the founding of other senior living communities.  He probably inspired as many new communities as were created by GEAC.

Tom never sought the public eye for himself or communities where he was involved.  He always said it was about the people; not the bricks and mortar nor was it about the ownership.  Residents first, employees next, and if we got that right, the bottom line would take care of itself.  He always showed a great deal of affection for the people who shared his vision of working with elderly people and for those who do the work.

He was always willing to listen and extend a helping hand to others.  Whether it was in his profession or in personal life, he was well liked and admired by all.

Tom passed away after a very brief illness on October7, 2008 at 67 years of age.   The planning for Thomas Landing was started at the same time.  The owners thought it appropriate to name their Rice Lake Senior Community after their friend and the mentor, Tom Doran.

Welcome to our Home – Thomas Landing 

Dean Bloemke, Member