Volunteer at Fair Acres for Nursing Home Week

joins and skilled nursing facilities nationwide in celebration of National Nursing Home Week 2012, to honor the lives of the individuals they care for and the staff who serve them.

Festivities began on May 13, and run through Saturday, May 19. This year’s theme is “Celebrating the Journey.” Friends and family are encouraged to visit loved ones and neighbors who are in skilled care facilities, and people are reminded that every life should be honored and every story deserves to be told.

“National Nursing Home Week is about living life to the fullest, regardless of age, illness or disability,” said Fair Acres Assistant Administrator Amy Nardi. “We are thrilled to show appreciation for our skilled nursing facility, our wonderful residents and our committed staff in this nationwide celebration.”

At the May 9 Delaware County Council meeting, Council Vice Chairman Marion J. Civera Jr. presented a resolution recognizing the high quality of care provided at Fair Acres, the County’s skilled care facility in Middletown. The meeting was attended by new Fair Acres Administrator William D’Amico, Assistant Administrator Amy Nardi, along with Fair Acres Executive Resident Council members Frances Ennis, Bill Matsinger and Pat Lewis.

Also attending the meeting were Fair Acres employees Jamie Mosteller, whose grandmother Helen Korzik is a resident, and Marion Crawford, whose brother, Alfred Scarboro, is at Fair Acres. Volunteers Judy Macrone and Helen Morgan represented the Friends of Fair Acres.

D’Amico, of Springfield, was welcomed as new administrator for Fair Acres Geriatric Center in April. He is a licensed nursing home administrator with 17 years of experience in the long-term care field.

Throughout the week, Fair Acres is hosting special resident events including a recreation of the TV game show “Deal or No Deal,” talent shows, spa days and other programs. Fair Acres will also honor their staff with various activities including a scavenger hunt, contests and prizes.

On Friday, May 18, Fair Acres will “Celebrate the Journey” in Building 8 with music and educational stations on the main floor for residents and staff to take part in.

Nursing Home Week is also an excellent opportunity to volunteer at Fair Acres.

Volunteer efforts play a large role in the Therapeutic Activities Department of Fair Acres. Individuals can help run bingo games, decorate for holidays, provide entertainment and assistance at events and accompany staff members to escort residents to local outings and religious services.

Volunteers are essential to the successful operation of Fair Acres’ annual Spring Fair, set for Wednesday, June 6. The Fair is open to residents, families, staff and the community. All proceeds go to the Fair Acres Resident Aid and Entertainment Fund.  Donations are accepted and used in raffle prizes or sold at Fair Acres’ Attic Treasures table. 

Needed donations include gift certificates, new or gently used books, clothing, or small household items. For information or volunteer opportunities contact Cheryl Everngham, Director of Volunteer Services, 610-891-5770 or email evernghamc@fairacres.org.

This press release was provided by Delaware County Council.