After nearly three decades of dedicated service, Bonnie Jess Lopane, Vice President and Chief Development Officer of Choices Healthcare, will retire on May 23, 2025. While her leadership will be greatly missed, Bonnie’s influence will continue to shape the organization for years. The organization celebrates the extraordinary impact she’s had on its donors and the countless families served.
Since joining the organization in 1996, then known as Hospice of Lancaster County, Bonnie has been a driving force behind the growth of its philanthropic and communications efforts. Through her strategic vision and deep understanding of the donor community, she has helped build a strong foundation of support that makes Choices Healthcare’s mission possible.
“Bonnie has had a tremendous impact on this organization,” shared Steve Knaub, President & CEO, Choices Healthcare. “Her thoughtful leadership and ability to form lasting, meaningful relationships with donors have made it possible for us to expand services, reach more patients and support families during some of life’s most difficult moments. She has truly helped shape who we are.”
Bonnie led the organization through two capital campaigns that raised millions of dollars to expand the Hospice Center on Good Drive in Lancaster and support the building of the Bob Fryer & Family Inpatient Center and Pathways Center for Grief & Loss in Mount Joy. She has also been instrumental in expanding the development program for Hospice of Central PA, which merged with Hospice & Community Care last year.
“During Bonnie’s first year with the organization, it raised $750,000; in 2024, the organization surpassed $8 million in philanthropic revenue,” said Steve Knaub. Throughout her tenure, Bonnie cultivated a highly collaborative and mission-driven team, one that continues to communicate the heart of the organization’s work with clarity and compassion. Under her leadership, the Development and Marketing Communications departments have flourished, ensuring that donor contributions directly support the care and comfort provided to thousands of individuals each year.
“It has been my honor to serve our organization for nearly 30 years,” shared Bonnie. “Our mission is one which impacts every person in our community who can benefit from the specialized care and support that we provide.”
Bonnie has brought more than experience to her role—she has brought authenticity. Her colleagues describe her as a mentor, a thoughtful leader and someone who leads by example. With a background in healthcare administration and a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) designation, Bonnie has long been recognized for her high standards and ethical practice in the philanthropic sector. She’s also been a member of the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy for more than 25 years and has served on a variety of nonprofit boards throughout the community.
As she transitions into retirement, Bonnie looks forward to revisiting some past volunteer pursuits, particular related to literacy, as well as pursuing another of her passions—writing – and is currently working on her first book. While she will be stepping away from her day-to-day responsibilities, her voice and leadership will continue to be felt across the organization.
“Bonnie’s legacy is woven into the fabric of Choices Healthcare,” Steve added. “She has helped us grow in ways that will benefit patients, families and our community for years to come.”
Choices Healthcare is deeply grateful to Bonnie for her years of service, her steady leadership and the positive, lasting change she has made. Her impact will remain a guiding light as we continue to build on the strong foundation she helped create.
Join Choices Healthcare in thanking and recognizing Bonnie Jess Lopane!