Neighbors Together

Reaching Out to Create Community Connections

by Carolyn Bennett

We have had almost 16 months in altered reality. We are now dealing with changes that have made it difficult to function in the manner that was familiar and comforting. The concerns we are witnessing and hearing include:

• It is easier to stay in one’s apartment to continue to receive “bagged” meals.
• The reservation process is overwhelming to many
• There is a loss of spontaneity for all of us to just show up for meals
• or to go the The Bistro
• The community table has disappeared
• Many have lost their soul mates, altering life & creating isolation
• And one of the biggest complaints is the quiet, closed door corridors in the Manor and the Plaza: There is a lack of connection with neighbors.

Recognizing these issues, Carolyn Bennett, Willi Zilkey, Holly Lawson and Lynn Ogren formed a committee, Neighbors Together, to address some of these issues. Thanks to the efforts of Sarah Karnatz and neighbors throughout RVM, lots of activities have provided a renewed sense of community. People are coming out to enjoy Mexican Train, Bingo, the RVM Farm Stand, and the Beverage Cart roaming throughout the cottages. Neighborhoods within the cottage area have gathered in driveways, under shade trees or on grassy slopes. Coffee and tea have returned to the Manor lobby and the Bistro.

However, not everyone has gotten involved and many still feel excluded. Some residents have become complacent with their “bag” life style. The new committee respects people’s choices; however, the main objective of Neighbors Together is to show kindness and caring to those who feel isolated and unimportant at RVM.

In collaboration with Sarah Karantz, the Beverage Cart will be in operation at the Plaza and the Manor during the month of August. The Neighbors Together is promoting this effort and providing hostesses for each of the following stops:

The new committee is on a mission to create social connectors throughout the campus. In the high-rises and in the cottage neighborhoods they hope to promote “Neighbors Together” time.

The hope is that in the Manor, the Terrace, and the Plaza, each floor will create a time for their neighborhood to come together by just gathering in one of their community areas. It is thought that perhaps each floor could have a person in charge of birthdays or other special recognitions to promote community well wishes. The list is endless of how we can create a feeling of belonging and kindness.

Sarah Karantz will assist any neighborhood with making reservations for a room and supplying tables & chairs either for a room setting or for a street party. The committee is here to help in any way they can. They are looking for some volunteers to assist with making their floor an inclusive and happy environment.

The testimony of the majority of residents at RVM is that this is one of the most beautiful and congenial campuses in which to live. We now just have to go the extra step to maintain this reputation. Thanks to all of you for extending your care and kindness to all who live at RVM!!!!

For more information please contact:

Carolyn Bennett (cjosmith341@gmail.com) or 6249

Willi Zilkey (willizilkey@gmail.com) or 6871

Holly Lawson (hflawson22@gmail.com)