Imagine brightening someone’s days without even seeing their face. Thanks to the generous employees of Grandview and Southview, Kettering Girl Scouts, University of Dayton students, and Macey the therapy dog, residents of two local nursing homes near Grandview’s campus had an extra special Christmas.
Employees adopted the residents at Forest View, formerly Harborside, and Grafton Oaks and purchased gifts for them. Dr. Sharon Merryman and a team of employees organized parties for the residents. The Grandview Foundation coordinated the planning, gift collection, and distribution of gifts to 170 residents.
The residents enjoyed food, fun, caroling, and music at two different parties just before Christmas. Each resident got their own stack of gifts especially selected for them, as well as a hand-knitted prayer blanket. For some residents this was the only holiday joy they experienced. Administrators from each nursing home shared that these parties are the highlights of the residents’ year.
Each nursing home received a large group gift. Forest View received a new Wii station and games, and Grafton Oaks received a new big screen TV to replace the one that just broke in their lounge.
“It is a blessing that Grandview and Southview employees feel and share this kind of holiday spirit with those who are less fortunate,” said Kelly Fackel. “It is this caring and compassion that our patients and our own employee family feel every day.”