New Holiday Traditions Take Hold at Windsor Run

Matthews, North Carolina—It hasn't taken long for residents of Windsor Run to make new friends and create their own holiday traditions.

Opened in May 2018, the senior living community developed and managed by Erickson Living is now host to an array of events that foster a sense of family during this festive time of year.

So Much to Enjoy

Michael Browne is a Community Resources Coordinator at Windsor Run.  With feedback from residents and employees, a robust calendar of activities in December was designed to entertain and inspire.  Those events included a Resident Holiday Potluck and a Sharing Holiday Traditions Expo in which residents and employees brought items from their homes to describe precious memories.

"It has been rewarding to see residents realize that they can still maintain the traditions they established earlier in their lives and now share them with new friends at Windsor Run," stated Mr. Browne.   

The yuletide fun kept going with a Holiday Kids Celebration, Gingerbread House Contest and a Chanukah Presentation.  "Many residents have told me how much living at Windsor Run has enhanced their holiday experience," observed Mr. Browne.

Windsor Run Holiday Gathering

One of the most popular events in December is the Annual Windsor Run Holiday Gathering.  It all started with a simple idea from a resident.

"A member of the Dining Committee proposed the concept last year.  Our culinary team thought it was a neat idea, and we brainstormed among the Committee and various departments as to what a successful party would look like," described William Bremer, Director of Dining Services.  "We branded the event as the Windsor Run Holiday Gathering sponsored by the Dining Committee with the goal of making it an annual celebration for all to anticipate."

This year's party occurred on December 18, attended by more than 300 residents.  Food stations were located in three dining venues: The Grove, the Tavern and the Woodlands Café', offering everything from shrimp cocktail to carved beef tenderloin, leg of lamb and all the fixings.  The Tavern and another location offered wine, beer and specialty drinks.

"I am proud of how our culinary professionals embrace the concept and create an extraordinary menu.  The set-up allowed the team to talk with residents and describe their respective dishes at the food stations," said Mr. Bremer.

Ms. Herion described the party as a "big hit.  This was truly a special occasion with the delicious food, piano accompaniment and entertaining atmosphere.  So many residents looked forward to dressing up for a festive night out, too.  Many thanks to the Dining Committee members, the culinary team and all the residents and employees who made this a remarkable evening."

While she will soon be celebrating Christmas with family, Ms. Herion is grateful for Windsor Run.  "There are so many interesting people who live here," she said.  "I feel blessed to have made new lifelong friends."

Resources to Entertain

For those who like hosting their own parties, residents have the opportunity to utilize the expertise of the Dining Services Department.

"We offer catering services to residents for special occasions such as a floor party or family event.  In fact, we've worked with adult children for surprise birthday and anniversary parties for their loved ones," noted Mr. Bremer.

Besides its three dining venues, Windsor Run offers well-thought out areas such as the Private Dining Room and outdoor balcony for resident events.

"We work with residents and family members on the menu and accommodations," said Mr. Bremer.  "We relish the creative aspect of this service and thoroughly enjoy when our customers are happy without having to worry about logistics."

About Windsor Run: Windsor Run, situated on a scenic 60-acre campus in Matthews, North Carolina, is one of 20 continuing care retirement communities developed and managed by Erickson Living®.  The community is home to 390 residents who are supported by a team of more than 110 employees.  Additional information about Windsor Run can be found at WindsorRunCommunity.com.