Dignity, respect, fun and teamwork are just four of the many words that come to mind when we look back at the past year at Courtland Gardens Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Randallstown.
The year began with teamwork as Mother Nature blanketed Maryland with nearly 80 inches of snow. Staff members dug, and dug and dug until they somehow managed to get out of their homes and into work to make sure that their residents were well taken care of. Employees even figured out how to have a good time, sharing stories about their adventures.
However, the big story at Courtland Gardens this year happened inside the facility. Construction was completed on a brand new $1 million state-of-the-art rehabilitation center. Highly skilled therapists there help residents regain their independence, stamina and strength.
Of course, staff members and residents continued to work together every day to nurture their minds and spirits with dignity and respect. Although 2010 was a tough economic year, you wouldn’t know that when it came to the way Courtland Gardens staff members reached out to help others. They figured out how to have fun while raising money for people who were in need around the community.
Among the activities; they opened the Courtland Gardens Dollar General. Proceeds from sales went to the United Way. Residents especially loved shopping because they don’t always get the opportunity to find their own bargains.
The Therapeutic Recreation staff partnered with Maryland Food Bank for the second year. They asked employees, family members and visitors for non-perishable food items. Collection boxes were placed throughout the building.
Therapeutic recreation employees didn’t stop there. They promoted the concept of “Give and Get.” With the support of the Food and Nutrition department, on Wednesday, December 8, every staff member who brought in three cans of soup for those less fortunate received a hot bowl of soup for him or herself.
Members of the dietary team also began composting food scraps to reduce the carbon footprint.
Not to be forgotten during 2010, heart health, breast cancer awareness and flu facts were also top priorities at Courtland Gardens. The Employee Activities Committee came up with innovative ways to remind people about the importance keeping their families and themselves healthy and happy. Among the organized events were a $5 jean day, a penny war, raffles and bake sales.
It’s hard to believe that another year has gone, but here’s to 2011 and more joy, happiness and fun at Courtland Gardens.
-Helene King
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