Everyone loves a great story – no matter how old or young you are.
For the past few months, the residents of Potter Ridge Assisted Living have been practicing for their newest way to give back to the community – “Once Upon a Time”.
The program was brought about by the resident’s community choir as another way to get out and be active in their hometown. Once Upon a Time has residents dressing up in story time characters and reading to area children. “It’s the best of both world’s for us. First, our resident’s have a great way to give back to the community. Second, to see the kids and our resident’s interacting really supports our goal for inter-generational learning.” states Roman Bloemke, Director of Operations at Welcome Home Management.
“I just love children and really enjoyed watching the reactions – their big eyes and smiles” stated Lorraine, a resident at Potter Ridge. Janet, another resident agreed. “I just love the children and enjoyed seeing their reactions when we read to them. They weren’t afraid to answer and begin conversations.”
“I am always looking for ways that our residents can give back to the community and things that they enjoy. Intergenerational programs are great ways to communicate to the community that even though you reach a certain age, there are still things to do to keep active, feel worthwhile, and bring joy to others. I am fortunate to have so many residents that want to participate and go out and about into the schools. Even though it may be hard for some to read the pages on the books, I encourage telling their own stories, or like our mother goose, to recite to the children the familiar mother goose rhymes.” states Mickie Schutz, Community Life Coordinator.
Their schedule of reading’s are becoming quite popular around the area. They have already had readings at various places around town, but most recently at St. John’s Little Blessings Pre-School.
Potter Ridge Assisted Living is managed by Welcome Home Management Company based out of Hutchinson, Minnesota. Potter Ridge is one of 10 senior living communities managed by Welcome Home.
For more information on Potter Ridge or Welcome Home, visit us on our website at: www.wtohdevelopment.com.
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