On March 17, 2025, the 'Lucky Ladies' from The Cottages at Willow Pond organized a joy-filled 'St. Patrick's Day Celebration' for the residents of both Willow Pond Senior Care and The Cottages at Willow Pond. This was the first celebration of its kind, and it was designed to create lasting memories, build friendships, and foster a sense of community.
Everyone had a chance to come together, enjoy some fun, and experience the magic of St. Patrick's Day!
Hostesses included Donya Moore, Cottage Coordinator, Debbie Sullenger, Cottage Concierge, Resident Hosts Fay Foy Franklin, Joyce Mazzarelli, Jennifer Groggs, and Donna Skinner. The venue was the event room at Willow Pond Senior. A St. Patrick's Day inspired menu was served with festive treats to delight everyone, including green punch ('Leprechaun lemonade') and shamrock-shaped pretzels. The activity was the exciting Lucky Slot Machine Game.
The residents of Willow Pond had a blast. They took turns pushing the button to activate the Lucky Slot Machine Game, hoping to line up 3 lucky shamrocks and win a prize. Both the residents of The Cottages and Willow Pond Senior Care shared lots of fun and laughter throughout the game.
"The heart of this activity is to remind the residents that they have friends closer than they realize and to offer an opportunity for those living in The Cottages to connect with and serve others in their community." shared Sara Chandler, Life Enrichment Director.
The purpose of the Lady Luck slots was to give residents the opportunity to mingle and bond with the cottage residents. The idea, created by the ladies of the Cottages, was designed to provide a fun activity for both new and old friends. Chandler helped bring the two groups together to just simply hang out and enjoy each other's company before kicking off the slot machine fun.
Jessica from Inhabit hosted a Shamrock Shakedown, too, serving up delicious Shamrock Shakes. This event turned out to be a wonderful mix of connection laughter and community.
"We love bringing joy to our neighbors; every smile makes it all worthwhile," Moore said.
The Cottages at Willow Pond is a close-knit independent living community where friendships flourish, laughter is shared, and life is celebrated. With convenient services like housekeeping, and transportation, and activities like book clubs, lunch bunch, and fun outings, residents enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle.
Moore and Chandler are planning a monthly activity to help strengthen the bonds between The Cottages and Senior Care residents, fostering friendship and shared memories. These activities will continue to 'Bridge the Gap', creating lasting connections and heartwarming memories for all residents.
Thank you to Willow Pond Senior Care for its generous support of Grice Connect.
