Neighbor News
Residents See Giving Thanks as a Way of Life
Each week a group of residents at Traditions of Hanover gather together to give thanks.
Expressions of gratitude are often reserved for the holiday season. But, one local independent living community in Bethlehem is working to change that.
Every Thursday residents of Traditions of Hanover devote time to giving thanks during a session affectionately known as Thankful Thursday. The group, organized by Marisa Leaser, director of resident life and case management, takes turns expressing gratitude for everything from the weather to family, noted resident Helen Fisher.
“I participate every week because it puts me in a better frame of mind,” said Fisher. “There’s always something to be thankful for.”
Leaser added, “This opportunity (giving thanks) changes your focus, it’s a very beneficial exercise for your emotional well-being. It also helps residents to get to know each other on a personal level and many new friendships have formed.”
The group isn’t all talk though. Once a month a charitable organization is selected and the community works together to raise money and donate items like nonperishable goods, clothing and more.
“Traditions of Hanover has a very caring culture and offers an array of possibilities for our residents to volunteer within the community and the surrounding area. Our residents are also very vibrant, resourceful and genuinely interested in helping others,” noted Leaser.
From Feb. 1 to Feb. 26 residents and staff helped raise $300 and collected seven boxes filled with gently-used and new clothing, food items and hygiene products for the Valor Clinic Foundation, which provides assistance with accessing benefits and shelter to military Veterans that have limited or no access to care.
“This is the first time we’ve given to Valor. It’s an organization that has become close to my heart—my husband was in the Marines,” said Fisher.
Traditions of Hanover Independent Living is a unique, award-winning retirement community offering Independent Living residences on an affordable month-to-month lease with no buy-in fees. Resident services and apartment features include meals, housekeeping, social events, transportation, and full kitchens. For more information, please call Megan Sedlock, marketing director, at 484-893-6034 or visit www.traditionsofhanover.com.