MORNINGSTAR
A Name Deeply Rooted
Our Founder
MorningStar’s story begins with an impassioned prehistory—namely, the life of Ken Jaeger, Founder/CEO. Born and raised on a large multi-generational farm in the Midwest, Ken and his 11 siblings were presented daily with lessons in economics, diligence and hard work.
In 2003, after 15 years of executive leadership experience and thoughtful observation of the senior housing industry, Ken determined to establish his own bold brand of senior living rooted in Judeo-Christian principles.
Honor God in our business practices and relationships — A commitment to strong moral values and ethics
Value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals — A commitment to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence
Invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well — A commitment to hiring and retaining employees who use creative minds and compassionate hearts to serve residents
Ken continues the story, “I had been searching for a company name for months. Something that was alive and comforting, that offered a powerful, guiding force—even more, a name that spoke to the passion I have to bring loving care to seniors.”
Then one day while he was reading the Bible, that name—MorningStar—leapt from the pages of Revelation 22:16 where Jesus said, “I am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star”. In sharing his discovery with wife Shanna, she mentioned that just that day she’d seen this reference to Jesus in 2Peter 1:19-21 (“…you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the Morning Star rises in your hearts”).
The following day Ken read a front page article about an Indian reservation suffering under abject poverty. One of the Native American women being interviewed was named MorningStar. That settled it. For even at the genesis of his company, Ken knew he wanted its profits used, in part, to relieve poverty around the world. And so we were christened: MorningStar.
It’s a fine thing to represent a brand with so much integrity and depth of purpose. Senior care is reason enough to be inspired and motivated. But at MorningStar, we have more. We’re on a mission. We’re resolved to leave a legacy of benevolence and changed lives within our communities and around the world.
Of Greater Purpose
Our Brand Story
On a Mission
Our Three Pillars Explained
“Our mission is something you can see in action, something we defend and uphold without compromise. In the profound moments that take place behind closed doors, with no one to applaud or acknowledge, God alone witnesses the good we do in service to others…compassionately caring for and protecting seniors by showing respect, love and kindness in every action. It is the respectful and honest way we do business, and the support we show one another as a team, humbling ourselves to do whatever is needed, regardless of title. It is uplifting the spirit of our team through adversity and challenging times.” — Veteran Team Member
While the company was founded on a Judeo-Christian tradition, we honor all faith systems and worldviews among our team members and residents. Our preeminent goal is to meet a resident’s social, emotional, physical and spiritual needs, all of which contribute to creating a comfortable home and offering truly compassionate care. It is our responsibility to honor spiritual preferences as part of caring for the whole person.
