A Night Under the Stars: Avon Place Senior Prom
July 24, 2024
Our Senior Prom event at Avon Place was a labor of love that brought joy and unforgettable memories to our residents. The event took place on Thursday, July 11th, with the theme "A Night Under the Stars" and featured live music, refreshments, snacks, a lit-up photo frame with "Avon Place Prom," a balloon arch, and beautifully decorated tables with stars hanging from the ceiling and hand-painted wooden flowers around the room. We spent months preparing, and collecting prom dresses, shirts, and ties, with the help of both staff and family members. Each resident had the chance to choose their outfit, ensuring they felt special and celebrated.
On the morning of the prom, Maria Mars, a Mary Kay consultant, volunteered her time to provide makeup for any resident who wanted it, while staff and family members helped with hair styling. Each resident received a corsage or boutonniere, adding to the true prom experience. Our residents even put together homemade seed paper that was sent to other facilities, adding a personal touch.
The idea for the Senior Prom came from John Kowalski, our entertainer for the event. He suggested a dance program, and we decided to take it further and organize a full-fledged prom. Residents, staff, family members, religious volunteers, and community members attended the event. John brought a group of dancers who encouraged everyone to join in, making the evening lively and inclusive. Even the Business Office Manager’s son and my son came in to dance with the residents.
Pam Rasgaitis, a family member, said,
"It was so fun to see everyone having such a great time. Being dressed up made it more special. The decorations were fantastic!" Business Office Manager Katie Bowen added,
"The prom turned out better than I expected. I have never seen so many smiles at an event. The residents were all dressed in their best, and the corsages and boutonnieres were a magical touch. It brought back wonderful memories for our residents."
The event was so successful that it will now be an annual tradition. Residents were overjoyed, and many remarked on how it reminded them of their youth. Beverly G., a resident, shared,
"Prom was fantastic and beautiful. It was the best day of my life in a long time. I am so glad that I survived so that I could go to this. It was such an uplifting event for me."
Special thanks to our activity staff, Jeanette, Sally, and Kat, who helped with everything, and MacKenzie, Morgan, Bailey, and Katie, who assisted with decorating and photography. Our STNAs worked tirelessly to help residents get ready, and several families also came in to help with preparations.
Events like these are crucial for fostering a sense of community, breaking down the stigma associated with nursing homes, and showing that life doesn’t stop in long-term care. They provide residents with opportunities for new experiences, a sense of normality, and most importantly, fun. At Avon Place, we are committed to creating moments of joy and togetherness for our residents.
Check out more photos from our Senior Prom on our Facebook page, and be sure to like our page to be the first to know about upcoming events! Avon Place on Facebook