Meeting Ms. Georgia

During my freshman year of college, I took a class that required students to earn a certain number of hours in volunteer work. I chose to spend my time at an assisted living facility down the street. This is where I met Ms. Georgia.

From her red hair to her feisty personality, she was a firecracker that immediately reminded me of my own grandma. She invited me to hang out in her room where she showed me photos of her family who lived out of state and wasn't able to visit often. From her younger years to her favorite music, Ms. Georgia talked my ear off, and I loved every second of it. Before I left, she thanked me for the kindness I showed her just by sitting with her and listening to her stories.

Ms. Georgia's thankfulness for just having someone to spend a couple of hours with her always stuck with me. It's the little things that become the big things, ya know? I walked away, not only with a new friend but a new appreciation for senior living facilities and everything that they do for their residents who may go long periods of time without seeing their families.

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A Local Organization in Need

To help with homesickness, missing long-distance family, and simply adding some fun to residents' everyday lives, staff put in tremendous effort to plan experiences that are engaging and active. Sometimes, these efforts need a little help from the community to be the best they can.

The activities department at Hamilton Pointe, an assisted living facility in Newburgh, is asking for donations to help create fun experiences for residents. Aside from medical services, the staff at Hamilton Pointe take special care to focus on the individuality and independence of each resident. Providing a variety of events and experiences is an important part of making this happen.

Add Some Magic to the "Senior" Prom

Are you still hanging on to your old prom dress or tux that you'll never wear again? Consider donating your prom attire for Hamilton Pointe's prom to make residents feel as beautiful or handsome as they look. This year's theme, The Wizard of Oz, is sure to make for a night to remember.

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Something for Everyone

If you donated your prom outfit years ago, don't worry! There are plenty of other donations that will bring a smile to a resident's face. Here are some other ideas for donations that will provide opportunities for mental stimulation, physical activity, and all-around fun.

  • Books, puzzles, crossword puzzles
  • Knick Knacks for Bingo prizes
  • Craft Supplies
  • 1-2 pound hand weights

Those interested in donating items can also check out the facility's Amazon Wish List!

Even if you aren't able to donate an item from the list, Hamilton Pointe is always looking for volunteers to spend their time making a difference in residents' lives to show them how important they are to the community.

Donations can be dropped off or you can contact April Johnson to arrange to pick up by emailing her at wildroot21@yahoo.com or calling (812) 746-6104.

Whether you donate prom attire, wish list items, or your time, I hope you experience making a senior smile, in the same way, Ms. Georgia's smile has stuck with me all these years.

Easter Egg/Basket Ideas for Children and Teens

There are limitless ideas of other items to place inside easter eggs, and it is not always geared towards the littles, teens, and tweens can still gain some enjoyment from this holiday tradition as well. Here are some ideas for all age ranges of things to pack inside those eggs!

Southern Indiana Photographer Captures Hoosier Birds

Southern Indiana Photographer, Ron Harper, captures photographs of native birds that are both stunning and almost magical. His photographs showcase the natural beauty of the birds in our neck of the woods. From action shots in midflight to beautiful portraits, these photos will give you a new appreciation for the feathered wildlife in Indiana.

 

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