Building Connection Through Community

Understanding What Community Means

As Resident Services Director at Vitalia Stow, I’ve seen firsthand how a strong sense of community transforms senior living from a place to stay into a place to truly thrive. Building connections among residents, team members, and even the surrounding neighborhood isn’t just a nice-to-have — it is essential for fostering well-being, joy, and purpose.

Creating community starts with understanding what makes each resident feel valued and included. It means designing experiences that spark conversation, laughter, and shared memories. Whether it’s a small event, a holiday celebration, an Act of Service, or a themed gathering, these moments strengthen relationships and help residents feel like they belong.

From my perspective, every interaction is an opportunity to weave the fabric of community. When residents feel connected, they enjoy their days more fully. They also experience the emotional and social benefits that come with genuine human connection. To me, “community” in a senior living setting means being together as one family — supporting one another, sharing laughter, and forming meaningful connections every day.

Encouraging Resident Connections

Building connections among residents is essential, as many are experiencing a similar transition. They are leaving behind familiar surroundings and entering a new environment with new faces. Helping them form friendships and find comfort in shared experiences fosters belonging and joy.

I encourage residents to engage with one another by offering a wide variety of daily events. Whether they join a scheduled program, enjoy coffee in the dining room, work on a puzzle, or read a favorite novel from the library, there is always an opportunity for connection. Our Welcome Committee also plays a key role by touring new residents around the community. They introduce them to others and help them connect over meals and shared interests.

We strengthen our ties with the surrounding town by supporting local theaters and attending performances at Stow High School twice a year. The Stow Mayor even joins us for community events such as Trick or Treat, the Easter Egg Hunt, and our special Candlelight Dinner.

Some of my favorite events that bring people together include our exercise programs, Happy Hour, Men’s and Ladies’ Monthly Luncheons, live music events, and weekly outings. These experiences build camaraderie and keep our community vibrant and engaged.

Welcoming New Residents with Warmth

To help new residents feel welcome, I ensure each move-in day is special. A personalized welcome sign, goodie bag, and card await them. They also receive a folder filled with helpful information. Our Welcome Committee and I personally introduce ourselves, answer questions, and schedule a meal or tour when they’re ready. This warm, intentional approach helps every new resident feel comfortable, cared for, and part of our family from day one.

At the heart of our community, connections are everything. Every conversation, shared laugh, and meaningful interaction enriches the lives of our residents. As Resident Services Director at Vitalia Stow, I’ve seen how intentional efforts to build these connections can transform daily life — turning our building into a true home and creating moments that residents and their families will treasure.

By prioritizing relationships, engagement, and a sense of belonging, we’re not just planning events — we’re building a vibrant, supportive community where everyone can thrive. Ultimately, it’s the connections we nurture that make all the difference.