When eleven Union Adventist University (Union College) occupational therapy assistant students took to Tabitha’s main campus in Lincoln, Neb. for Friday volunteer hours, they expected their time would be spent providing companionship to Seniors.
What they didn’t expect were the Connections that developed over social hours, outdoor activities, group exercises and games between themselves and Residents living at GracePointe by Tabitha Assisted Living & Memory Suites and Tabitha Nursing & Rehabilitation Center.
Cultivating Connection Within Local Community
The idea of partnering with Tabitha—to benefit both students and Seniors—started with Fara Adams, Academic Field Coordinator, Occupational Therapy (OT) Assistant Program at Union College.
According to Adams, students participating in the OT program’s summer class were given an assignment: to coordinate individual and group wellness activities.
During the Collaboration, OT students worked together to create social hour themes, gain valuable knowledge about working in Senior Care and spend quality time with Tabitha Residents.
Additionally, Susan Langford—S²age Director and previously Director of Volunteer Engagement—worked closely with Adams to develop a curriculum that future students will be able to follow.
“While life at Tabitha includes many opportunities for life enrichment and gatherings, there’s nothing that residents love more than chatting and spending time with Volunteers,” said Langford.
“Whether it’s playing games, hosting events or handing out treats and beverages during our weekly Friday socials, every action makes a meaningful difference. We are grateful to Fara and to these Committed students for taking time out of their summer to bring joy to Residents of Tabitha.”
One Summer’s Worth of Lasting Impact
While students’ summer volunteer hours have formally come to an end, some have expressed plans to return to Tabitha when the fall semester resumes. One student shared a desire to bring her university club to participate in Christmas decoration efforts and bring holiday spirit to Tabitha’s main campus.
“Connection is the spirit of Tabitha,” shared Michael Aubrey, GracePointe Administrator. “When friendships blossom and relationships thrive between TEAMembers, Volunteers and Residents, it’s fascinating to observe how Tabitha’s purpose—empowering people to live joyfully, age gratefully—is alive in each of us.”
To learn more about Union College’s mission of “energizing community with opportunities for all,” visit union.edu.
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