Across the country, FirstPort colleagues and residents enjoy the community element of the developments we manage, whether it’s celebrating a special occasion, supporting a charitable initiative, or simply doing their bit to bring the community together.
Here are a few examples of some of the activities that have been happening recently.
He’s a catch! Residents surprise their Development Manager with Fish & Chip Evening
Residents at a development in Spalding arranged a heart-warming surprise for their Development Manager, organising a surprise Fish & Chip Evening in his honour, to mark two years under his management.
Darryl Hagley, Development Manager at Swallows Court One, was the guest of honour for the special event, put together to recognise his hard work since his appointment. Darryl spent the evening dining with residents, who decorated the communal lounge with balloons and banners and also presented him with gifts, to show their appreciation.
Resident, Debbie Allan commented: “The evening was planned to show Darryl just how much the residents value and appreciate the great work he does every day.
“In the manager’s role, he has shown that he is incredibly caring and hardworking.”
Reflecting on the evening, Darryl commented: “The fish and chip evening was truly a lovely and humbling experience, it was a total surprise!
“I am lucky to have such lovely residents who appreciate what I do and support me. We work together to make Swallows Court One a fun and happy place to live. I am truly lucky to manage such a wonderful community.”
Musical fundraiser strikes a chord with residents
At Townbridge Court in Northwich, residents held their annual fundraiser, organised each year to benefit a local charity. The chosen cause this year was St Luke’s Hospice.
Residents gathered for a music afternoon, courtesy of ‘Townbridge Ukes’, a residents’ music group that regularly meets as part of the development’s extensive social calendar. Residents also gave generously to a Bring & Buy sale, and socialised in the communal lounge over coffee & cake.
Residents enjoyed a wonderful day, raising a fantastic £390 for a charity close to the hearts of many in the community. Resident, Dorine Cass was also recognised by St Luke’s, receiving a certificate and badge of reward to recognise an incredible 22 years of voluntary fundraising.
Dolly Chesterton, Development Manager at Townbridge Court commented:
“This year’s fundraiser was a great success, and raised vital funds for St Luke’s Hospice, which means so much to the local community. We had a great time, with plenty of tea and cake, whilst enjoying the entertainment from our very own ‘Townbridge Ukes’.”
“Just keep going”: Resident celebrates incredible 101st birthday
At a later living development in Glasgow, a much-loved member of the community celebrated a remarkable 101st birthday. Anna Di Paulo, a resident at Strawhill Court in Glasgow, is a regular attendee of events and activities held at her development.
Ann Gavienas, Development Manager at Strawhill Court said : “Strawhill is so fond of Anna as she is such a comic and keeps everyone going. She attends Yoga every week in the lounge and never misses a function.”
As for her secret, Anna insists the key to a long life is to “Just keep going.” Also known for her sense of humour, Anna added that she no longer uses mirrors, because: “They aren’t like they used to be!”
Happy Birthday, Anna!
