Reflecting Back on 2018

As we celebrate the holidays and ring in the New Year here at The Greens at Greenwich, we reflect on all our blessings, which include the people we have welcomed into our community as well as those to whom we said good-bye. I would personally like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to all the residents, families and staff for a wonderful year. I feel exceptionally thankful to work in an environment filled with compassion, fellowship and joy.

We’ve welcomed a dream team of men this year. Chef Michael, Ruddy and Jaime. Ruddy has enhanced the lecture programs incorporating sports and historical icons. Chef Michael has truly brought a country club feel to our dining experience, and Jaime’s attention to detail has added a new level of care and cleanliness to our home.

Our amazing residents continue to bring their own charm, varied experience, and unique presence to our home. This past year we continued to add new groups and expand our inter generational

and internship programs. Our resident mentor collaboration began this past January with the young ladies of Sacred Heart School. The residents shared their wisdom and the students reaped the benefits. We look forward to work in partnership with Sacred Heart in 2019.

The residents continued to experience new things which brought them wonder and excitement. Sheldon, our centenarian, experienced the opera for the first time this year. Don Giovanni was a hit for him and the rest of the group. He was ecstatic. “I always wondered about opera”, Sheldon told us.

Rose the horse visited several times and we recreated the Kentucky Derby in the front yard. Picture hats and cool drinks for all! Our Artists in Residence from SUNY Purchase began their tenure with us this year, bringing the performing arts to The Greens each week with conservatory level training. Ballet, jazz, classical guitar and piano are now a part of our weekly experience. The residents and family members enjoyed cocktails one evening in October as we also welcomed an artist from Provence. She brought 50 pieces of her art and spoke to us about how Cezanne and Van Gogh influenced her work.

Our creative arts therapy program is flourishing, and this past March the Bruce Museum hosted our therapists and student interns as we provided workshops for the community. Families and friends were able to understand the arts experience firsthand. We had so much fun, we will be doing is again in 2019! Thank you, Bruce Museum.

During this holiday season, I wish to thank my Greens Team for their commitment to our residents by way of their special care and compassionate hearts. To our families, thank you for entrusting us to care for your loved ones. And most importantly, to our residents, who bring us joy and wisdom every day.

I look ahead to 2019, with anticipation and excitement while wishing you all a New Year filled with joy, family and love.

Maria

Exceutive Director, The Greens at Greenwich