Kershner Office Furniture Receives Philanthropy Award

Bruer Kershner of Kershner Office Furniture with Sandy Lovascio, Director of Development for the Society of the Holy Child Jesus – American Province, at the CEO Philanthropy Awards Breakfast in Philadelphia


“The more I learn about the Society of the Holy Child Jesus (SHCJ), the better it gets,” says Bruer C. Kershner, President of Kershner Office Furniture in King of Prussia, PA. In June, Mr. Kershner was honored by the Executive Leaders Radio and Entrepreneurs Forum of Greater Philadelphia at the CEO Philanthropy Awards Breakfast in Philadelphia.
Mr. Kershner was recognized for his personal accomplishments, but perhaps more importantly, he was recognized for his commitment to supporting charitable causes, one of which is the Society of the Holy Child Jesus.
Mr. Kershner was asked to select a charitable organization to which he is committed to present him with the award. “The Sisters of the Holy Child Jesus (SHCJ) were the first to come to mind,” he says. Sandy Lovascio, Director of Development for the SHCJ, presented Mr. Kershner with his award, stating, “Bruer enthusiastically extends his time and expertise, generously supports the Society’s efforts, and graciously serves as a wonderful advocate. As an organization that has witnessed his leadership, devotion, and commitment, it is a privilege to present this award.”
Mr. Kershner came to know the Society of the Holy Child Jesus in 2009, when the organization’s offices were being relocated from Drexel Hill, PA to Bryn Mawr, PA. The expense of moving the office was quite costly and there were not a ton of funds left over to buy furniture. The furniture the organization was using was school furniture such as teachers’ desks and chairs from several decades ago. It was falling apart and not functional for an office.
Mrs. Lovascio contacted several furniture companies to see if they could help. She knew there was something different the minute Mr. Kershner answered the phone. “He could not have been more helpful. He was excited to learn about our work and those we serve. He worked with us on cost and did all he could to provide us with economical solutions—such as by providing refurbished furniture—that would help to make our office presentable, functional, and affordable. And then he made a personal donation to help us cover some of the costs. He went above and beyond.”
Since then, Mr. Kershner has continued his commitment to the Society, such as by helping to find event sponsors for the Society’s Annual Awards Dinner event. “We are so grateful to Bruer,” said Mrs. Lovascio. “His support makes it possible for the Sisters to advance their mission and continue to bring faith and hope to some of God’s most vulnerable.”