By Walsh and Beck | Posted: Thursday August 29, 2019
This July, some of our Enliven homes helped us kick off our centenary celebrations in style. Staff and residents joined together to host events that showed the true community spirit that we pride ourselves on, here at Presbyterian Support Southland.
This year, we wanted to celebrate the huge achievements that Presbyterian Support Southland have accomplished over our 100-years of service. These celebrations are not just about the work we’ve done, but they are also a chance for us to show our support and appreciation for all of our volunteers, staff, residents and the Southland community that make it all possible.
When the first official PSS children's home was opened in 1919, we had no idea how many people we would have the chance to help and support over the next 100 years. This centenary year marks a huge milestone for us and demonstrates the true power of community within Southland.
The celebrations for Enliven started with our Vickery Court, Resthaven and Peacehaven aged care homes throwing events for family and residents.
On the 10th of July, celebrations began with a dinner held at Resthaven Village, where family and friends gathered for a community meal. The gathering totaled 158 people, each one with a personal connection to Enliven.
The afternoon also featured some of our amazing staff, who volunteered as waitresses and we also had the pleasure of welcoming Gore Mayor, Tracy Hicks and his wife Robin. To really start the celebrations off right, a large cake was brought out and one of our residents, 100-year old Ivy Hannah, cut the cake.
On the 12th of July, Vickery Court held a fun filled day, starting with a lunch time happy hour with entertainment from the Blue Bells. Having the band come and play for us on this day was truly special, as some members have been coming to Vickery Court to entertain residents for over 20 years.
The amazing music provided by the live band made sure that there was plenty of singing and celebrating throughout the day. We know how much of an impact music can have on our residents and their families, so being able to incorporate live music into the celebrations was an integral part of the day.
The celebrations were rounded off nicely with an afternoon tea, consisting of delicious cakes and perfectly prepared savouries and sandwiches by our very own Vickery Court kitchen team.
Peacehaven Village also joined in on the
celebrations and had their celebration
on the 21st of July, it was a lovely
afternoon kicked off with live music
from our Enliven Music Therapist
Jamie MacDonald followed by a
performance by the “Bell Ringers” – our
very own resident band, a cake and the
presentation of a lovely handmade art
piece that was crafted by Peacehaven
Village residents and staff, followed by
an afternoon tea.