Seasons Retirement Communities’ vision is ‘CONNECT CARE CHANGE®.’ The company passionately believes that when they take the time to genuinely connect with those around them and show that they care, they can effect positive change in the lives of their residents. Seasons’ mission is to deliver meaningful WOW moments to its residents by proactively learning who they are and understanding what is most important to them, then exceeding their expectations at every interaction. Milestone anniversary and birthday celebrations and initiatives or events spearheaded by the Seniorosity® teams happen all the time, courtesy of the exceptional people who both live and work at Seasons.
Here are a handful of heart-warming stories from the year that show Seasons’ connectedness:
Inspired by seeing seniors skydive on television, 94-year-old Seasons Brantford resident Vina always felt she could do it, too. Vina’s family, friends, and the Seasons Brantford team were on hand to support her as she took the plunge under the expert guidance of Skydive Ontario. This unforgettable experience was part of Seasons’ “DREAM WOW Moments” program, celebrating their 15th anniversary as a company, where they turned residents’ special dreams into reality. For Vina, this initiative finally made her life-long goal of skydiving come true—a dream she had kept on her prayer list for years. Filled with excitement as she prepared to leap when she landed, Vina calmly declared, “God opened the door for this to happen; seasons put it in my place.”
Seasons Cambridge resident Joan, who walked 97 laps to support the Cambridge Food Bank last year, raised an impressive $1,600 and collected over 200 pounds of food. In honour of her 98th birthday, she increased her fundraising goal to $2,098, surpassing that by collecting $7,100 on behalf of the Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids), and completed 98 laps. Additionally, Joan zip-lined in Niagara Falls for the first time! “My dad used to tell me to leave the world in a better place than when I arrived. I want to contribute to giving kids the care they deserve and show them that you’re never too old or too young to accomplish anything,” she shared. Joan, an active Seasons Cambridge Seniorosity® Team member, continues to develop innovative initiatives and projects to support the local community.
Seasons Camrose resident Irvine McKee released his first book at 87. Titled “The Essence of Life, Rainbow Sky Country, Reflections in the Glow of Sunset,” it captures his incredible life journey. Over the past year at Seasons Camrose, Irvine channelled his rich life experiences into this memoir, blending personal memories with broader historical reflections. “These recollections put into perspective what I experienced as a small boy growing up in the prairies. Mine is a time of reflection on life, having retired from teaching, passing the milestone of sixty years, and recently sustaining a heart attack. Strangely, it is during my rehabilitation that these flashbacks come to mind with a rush,” recalls Irvine. He actively contributes to the “Seasons Storytellers” program, a unique initiative designed to give residents a platform to share their incredible stories, insights, and talents. The program has become a cherished creative outlet, offering numerous benefits such as brain exercise, friendship building, and a sense of purpose.
Friends for decades and Seasons Drayton Valley residents Ina and Marg were surprised and delighted by a ‘Girl’s Day Out’ courtesy of Seasons’ “DREAM WOW Moments” program. The twosome started their day by taking a limousine to a tasty lunch at one of their favourite local spots, Mr. Mike’s Steakhouse. Ina and Marg were then transported to the gorgeously rustic Glamp Good campground. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the scenery, they gathered around the campfire, sharing stories and making s’mores. Their memorable day was capped off by taking in a Stage West show, arriving at the Mayfield Dinner Theatre for a delectable meal and an entertaining live performance. Marg met Ina at the drugstore where Ina worked in the 1980s. Their friendship deepened further when they moved into Seasons Drayton Valley. Marg moved in December 2017, and Ina in August 2019. The women have both shared their gratitude for their friendship and the support Seasons provides.
Seasons Dufferin Centre resident and centenarian Florence Chatten has a unique tie to Campbellford District High School dating back to the 1940s. To connect the dots of history, the home reached out to the high school principal, delving into dusty archives to orchestrate a surprise for their beloved resident. Florence, accompanied by Seasons Dufferin Centre Fun Manager Adelle Vorkapic, a 2012 Campbellford District High School graduate, embarked on a trip to her old alma mater. While the visit included thoughtful gifts for the Principal and Vice-Principal, the true gem awaited Florence in the form of her attendee book. Florence’s face lit up with pure joy the moment it was presented to her, describing it almost as a second honeymoon. It was an emotional revelation, a rediscovery of cherished memories. “This experience was incredibly special for Florence and me,” expressed Adelle. “Opportunities like these are rare, and I feel deeply fortunate to have played a role in creating such a meaningful moment for Florence.”
Seasons Stoney Creek residents Ward and Shirley originally planned to celebrate their 69th wedding anniversary at a well-known steakhouse but had to pivot those plans when their family fell ill. Hoping to still make their evening special, Ward asked Dining Service Manager Stacey Nova if she could prepare his sweetheart’s favourite dessert: homemade rice pudding. Stacey not only delivered that specific request but exceeded expectations by preparing a delicious steak and shrimp supper at a beautifully set private table, making this couple’s anniversary truly unforgettable. Married in 1955 at McMaster University, Ward and Shirley have discovered that the key to a happy marriage lies in patience, personal space, and open communication. Their commitment to mutual respect and agreement has been vital through life’s challenges. Together, they built a beautiful family, including two children, four grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. Ward treasures Shirley’s kindness and singing, while Shirley admires Ward’s big heart and respect for others. Their advice to newlyweds: “Always talk things out and never go to bed angry,” they shared. Ward and Shirley’s story is a beautiful reminder of the strength of love and the joy of shared moments.
If you are looking to make an impact in the life of a senior and would like additional information about working at Seasons Retirement Communities, please click the careers page on their website to apply today. As COO LeighAnne Voll shares, “ There is something exceptional about the culture at Seasons. You can see it in the tenure of our long-standing team members; they are super passionate about and committed to living our mission, vision, and values every day.”