If one of your New Year's resolutions is to give back to your community, Friends of Moose Mountain Lodge president, Bertha Isleifson says the recently-formed organization is welcoming assistance, both monetary and volunteer.
“We had our first meeting on Nov. 25,” says Isleifson. “We decided that we wouldn't define the group as a formal auxiliary. Instead, we welcome anyone who is interested to work with us to enhance the lives of our residents at Moose Mountain Lodge.”
“We're not here to complain or pick apart what is already put in place by the health region,” says Isleifson. “But we want to enhance what's already there. We want to add some excitement and engagement to the residents' daily lives.”
“They've helped to build our communities and make them what they are today,” says Isleifson. “They're still valuable members of the community, and they should have the opportunity to participate in the life of the community. That's what Friends of Moose Mountain Lodge is trying to do for our residents.”
Isleifson says Carlyle's Dickens Village Festival is “a great example.”
“Every year, the parade starts at the Lodge, so the residents get a chance to see it, which they appreciate so much. This year, some people visited in costume, too. It was such a great thing-they dressed up and came to our residents, because most of the people in the Lodge aren't able to come out and see them.”
“It's just remembering that they're there and making community events accessible to them.”
She adds that the idea of community involvement varies from resident to resident.
“They're no different from anyone else in that respect,” says Isleifson. “Some of our residents enjoy larger events, and for others, it's about the simple, everyday life stuff. They value hard work-the work they've done throughout their lives-and it might be that they want to help wipe the tables or weed the garden. And if they can't do that, they would really love to sit beside someone who is doing a little weeding and be there visiting and participating in that way.”
The group is willing to consider volunteer ideas, funds and time, says Isleifson. “We welcome participation from the area,” she says. “Whether it's from groups, businesses or individuals.”
“There are gaps we'd like to work on filling and new ideas we'd like to try.”
“The word is 'value',” adds Isleifson. “The residents of Moose Mountain Lodge are your friends, your neighbours, and often, your loved ones. They are still valuable people and valuable members of their communities.”
“Just remember that they're here and they still need to feel as though they're part of the larger community, because they are.”
The next meeting of the Friends of Moose Mountain Lodge will be held Wed., Jan. 21 at 7 p.m. at the Lodge. For more information on volunteering or donating, contact Bertha Isleifson at 453-6278.
