THE LINK :: TotalLink to Community Newsletter, December 2024

December 2024

From Volunteer to Team Member:

Jane's Impact at The Sheridan at Green Oaks

Jane spreads her famous "Jane love."

For Jane, her work at The Sheridan at Green Oaks is about more than her responsibilities—it’s about connection. “I enjoy getting to know the residents, keeping them company, and playing games,” she says. “It’s fun. I like to help out my fellow coworkers and make sure the residents are safe.

What began as a volunteer opportunity for Jane in the spring soon blossomed into a job opportunity as a Resident Program Assistant in the Memory Care wing. The team noticed her dedication and natural ability to connect with residents and welcomed her as a part-time employee.

"Jane is a pleasure to work with," says Memory Care Director Veronica Smith. "Her level of professionalism and positive outlook bless the residents here."

In her role, Jane shares her "Jane love" with residents and co-workers. She collaborates with the Memory Care Director and CNA team to provide residents with high-quality care and leads engaging activities like BINGO, Family Feud, sing-a-longs, and the Happy Hour program, keeping residents entertained and active. She assists with mobility during walks, maintains cleanliness during meals, and even takes the initiative to keep the hallways tidy and organized.

Jane's journey from volunteer to valued team member reflects the power of inclusion and opportunity, benefiting both employees and the community they serve.

Supporting the Arts with a New Program

TotalLink's community is filled with painters, poets, singers, actors, and dancers alike. We are proud to support the arts and encourage creativity through our art classes, a creative writing group, Karaoke, and line dancing class. It just made sense for us to release a new program, Theater Squad!

In November, we had the pleasure of seeing Charlie & the Chocolate Factory at Deerfield Family Theater. Our group donned their Willy Wonka-themed outfits and had a blast taking in the breathtaking costumes, set, sounds, and world of the chocolate factory.

The arts encourage us to explore everyday wonders and dream without limitations. Songs from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, such as "Pure Imagination" and "Candy Man," beautifully capture this spirit. Thank you to Deerfield Family Theater for letting us step into a world of "pure imagination" and dream without limitations for that golden ticket.

Second Annual Paddle with a Purpose Success!

Thank you to the over 65 guests who joined us for TotalLink’s Paddle With a Purpose! Held at the Glenview Prairie Club, the event brought together players of all skill levels for an enjoyable evening of friendly competition, great food, and plenty of fun.

A special thanks to our dedicated committee organizers—Fred Betsoleiman, Tim Merrigan, Randall Kelly, Teri Rosenberg, Paddle Tennis Instructor Rich Rosenberg—and to Franco Francese, owner of Coarse Italian Restaurant, for assisting with the delicious dinner.