SpringRidge honors resident volunteers for National Volunteer Month
Pamplin Media Group April 2024 17
SpringRidge at Charbonneau
By KERRY PHILLIPS
SpringRidge honors resident volunteers for National Volunteer Month
SpringRidge at Charbonneau offers the best of both worlds — a chance to be as relaxed or as active as one pleases . For many residents , the retirement community provides the perfect backdrop for sharing their skills and passions with neighbors . Cynthia Carter and Phyllis Tanner are among the many resident volunteers who will be honored at a luncheon later this month .
“ I love volunteering ,” said Cynthia , who relocated to the community 2 ½ years ago from California . “ It is a great way to get to know others and acclimate to the surrounding area .”
She began assisting in SpringRidge ’ s onsite sundry store and sharing her love of Mah Jongg with neighbors . She teaches the game twice a week , helping newbies hone their skills and reap documented health benefits such as improving memory skills .
“ Everyone really likes playing ,” she added . “ We have two tables going , sometimes three . It ’ s nice knowing I ’ ve introduced the game to so many residents . It ’ s a wonderful social group that enriches our daily life .”
Like Cynthia , Phyllis feels good knowing her bridge classes are expanding her neighbors ’ horizons . An avid player for over 30 years , she volunteered to teach the game ’ s intricacies , taking participants from beginning bridge and competitive bidding to popular conventions .
“ The group started about nine months ago , and we ’ re already playing duplicate bridge 3-4 times a week ,” she said . “ I have a very enthusiastic group . They ’ ve come a long way , and I ’ m very proud of them .”
Phyllis , who lived in Charbonneau before moving to SpringRidge , says the community ’ s maintenance-free lifestyle affords her more free time to dedicate to playing bridge . She meets up with longtime friends for a weekly game and plays golf with her daughters at the Charbonneau Country Club , where SpringRidge residents enjoy a complimentary social membership as part of the monthly fee .
Although both ladies are known for their
COURTESY PHOTO : KERRY PHILLIPS
Phyllis Tanner ( far right ) is an avid bridge player who has graciously volunteered to teach her SpringRidge neighbors the game .
volunteerism at SpringRidge , their passion for being of service dates back decades . Cynthia , a former nurse , said volunteering has been a two-way street for her — nurturing the part of her personality that loves meeting people while fulfilling the need for companionship . In addition to teaching Mah Jongg , Cynthia is an active member of the Resident Council and co-chair of the SpringRidge Hospitality Committee , helping her newest neighbors transition to the community .
“ I ’ ve always been active ,” said Phyllis , who worked in real estate for 30 years . “ I see things that need to be done and realize no one is going to do it for me . I take the initiative to go after the things I want . For example , I always loved to dance , so I thought , ‘ Why not ?’ I spoke to our Zest Director , Cindy Foster , and launched a three-session class teaching my neighbors the waltz and swing . We had a blast !”
Research shows volunteering offers a wealth of benefits , especially for older adults . Giving back has been associated with physical and mental health , including lowering rates of depression and anxiety .
“ I feel good watching people bloom and knowing I ’ ve played a role ,” said Phyllis . “ I certainly don ’ t do it for the praise . I just love helping others and find it very satisfying .”
Cynthia and Phyllis will join other resident volunteers on April 25 at SpringRidge , where their service will be recognized as part of the community ’ s annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon .
The SpringRidge at Charbonneau campus offers a comprehensive menu of lifestyle options , including CARF-accredited assisted living and memory care services at SpringRidge Court . For more information or to schedule a personal tour , please call 503- 694-2700 or visit SpringRidgeatCharbonneau . com .
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