Staff Spotlight – A Friendly Face at the Freeman Community Center: Amanda Weik

When visitors and residents walk into the Freeman Community Center, they’re often greeted by Amanda Weik—a familiar face whose warm smile and welcoming nature help set the tone for the day. As a receptionist at the front desk, Amanda plays an important role in daily life at Cornwall Manor, offering assistance, answering questions and building meaningful connections with those she meets. Since joining the team in 2021, she has become a valued part of the community.

A Lebanon native, Amanda grew up in the Cornwall–Lebanon School District and graduated in 2020 during an especially challenging and uncertain time. As a “pandemic graduate,” she experienced a unique transition from school into the workforce, but she embraced the change with resilience. Not long after graduation, a familiar connection helped guide her path—her friend Miriam, who encouraged Amanda to apply to Cornwall Manor. The two had known each other through school and their shared involvement in the 4-H group Fleece to Shaw, where Amanda developed both skills and confidence.

Her time in 4-H gave Amanda hands-on experience working with wool, particularly in carding and preparing it for use. That dedication paid off in 2015 when she won a competition at the Pennsylvania Farm Show—an accomplishment she still takes pride in today. She also volunteers at the Lebanon Area Fair, experiences that strengthened her work ethic and sense of community involvement early on.

At Cornwall Manor, Amanda has found a role that suits her personality perfectly. She enjoys being part of an environment that is both supportive and uplifting, and she especially values the relationships she builds with residents. Whether she’s greeting someone as they arrive, helping them find information or simply sharing a conversation, Amanda takes pride in making each interaction positive. Recently, she celebrated her five-year work anniversary milestone—a testament to her dedication and the impact she’s made.

Amanda’s enthusiasm for connection extends beyond her desk. She recently participated in Cornwall Manor’s first annual Trail Trot, walking more than two miles with her mom along Wildflower Lane and the Lebanon Valley Rail Trail. The event raised over $1,100 and brought awareness to Alzheimer’s, with participants crossing the finish line cheering a joyful “Whoopie!” and celebrating together afterward with a delicious homemade whoopie pie. Although Amanda experienced strain in her hands during the walk, she was determined to complete it—an example of her perseverance and commitment.

That determination is a recurring theme in Amanda’s life. Born with spina bifida and scoliosis, she approaches challenges with a mindset that is both practical and inspiring. She focuses on what she can do and embraces opportunities with a willingness to try new things. As Amanda puts it in her actions, there’s no sense in dwelling on what can’t be changed—so she continues to move forward with positivity and courage. Exercise and movement are especially important to her, and she enjoys participating in yoga classes at Cornwall Manor led by instructor Ellen Keosseian. With Ellen’s support, Amanda is able to adapt the practice to meet her abilities, making it both a meaningful way to stay active and a social opportunity she shares with coworkers.

Outside of work, Amanda enjoys a variety of hobbies that reflect her vibrant personality. She loves learning about aircraft—especially those from the World War II era—and is also an avid rock and mineral collector who enjoys attending local gem shows. She has a deep appreciation for the arts as well, particularly Broadway shows. In her free time, Amanda also enjoys spending time outdoors, especially swimming or visiting the beach, and hopes to travel more in the future. She enjoys thrifting, always on the lookout for unique finds, and she loves music from the 1960s, ’70s and ’80s, with a growing vinyl record collection she plays at home.

When she’s relaxing, Amanda enjoys watching Stranger Things or unwinding with a good comedy movie. She’s also an animal lover who cares for her black lab, Jaxson, and a leopard gecko—both important parts of her life. In high school, she participated on a sled hockey team, demonstrating both her athleticism and willingness to take on new challenges. After graduation, she began classes at HACC in Harrisburg and continues to explore what path she may want to pursue in the future.

Amanda also has a heart for helping others, especially children. In the past, she assisted in a preschool and kindergarten classroom at her church and also supported an autistic elementary classroom at Cornwall Elementary School—experiences that reflect her compassion, patience and dedication to making a difference.

Through her kindness, resilience and genuine enjoyment of helping others, Amanda Weik exemplifies what makes the Cornwall Manor community so special. Whether she’s greeting someone at the front desk, participating in a community event or simply sharing a smile, Amanda brings a sense of positivity that leaves a lasting impression.