Pat, Sandy & Gloria...

Looking for a dynamic group of people? Look no further than the residents of Washington House in Westfield! People living in this building have come together and uncovered the true meaning of being good neighbors.

Pat Guerin, Sandy DiPinto and Gloria Wool are each active members of the Resident Quality of Life Council of Washington House. This committee of residents meets twice a month to plan events and tackle issues present in their community of more than 125 people. Seven years ago, Highland Valley, in partnership with the Westfield Housing Authority, invited the residents of Washington House to come together and take charge of the quality of life there through the formation of this Council. Though it took time, the process has led to the establishment of what is now a very dynamic and engaged resident body.

If you ask what their favorite activities have been, the residents will be sure to mention their numerous trips to the Connecticut Trolley Museum or their adventures at the New England Aquarium in Boston. They might even mention their journey to the Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut or their exciting games of Bingo at Foxwoods. When speaking about their trips, Sandy says excitedly, "there is always a 'wow' factor!" For those who prefer to stay in, they are certainly not left out- there is always something to do at home! Whether it is one of their many summer picnics or their rousing game nights, the residents of Washington House certainly know how to keep busy and have fun!

Washington House is also a congregate dining site. Highland Valley Elder Services provides noon time meals and the residents take charge to serve the meals to their neighbors. In the past, outside volunteers were recruited to serve the lunches; a few years ago however, Pat and Sandy stepped up to run the dining site, themselves! The lunches are very successful with at least twenty participants coming together for lunch everyday. "Ever since I have been volunteering in my building," Sandy says, "I feel that there is something to get out of bed for." For Gloria, even though she jokes that her friends often tease her, these friends motivate her each day because of the strong support system they share.

In addition to being an active group, the Washington House community is also unique in that one third of its population is comprised of Russian speaking elders. Although the language barrier was a challenge in the beginning, Washington House pulled together and with the help of a translator, established cross-cultural relationships with English speakers. In an effort to gain a deeper understanding between the Russian and American cultures, the Resident Quality of Life Council organized a trip to the Russian Icon Museum in Clinton, Massachusetts last April. The trip became a wonderful bonding experience and has since been described as the best community experience, to date!

Don't think the Resident Quality of Life Council only organizes social events, however. The Council also works to solve everyday issues that often emerge in congregate living settings. There are times when disputes must be handled, care challenges met, or building issues addressed and the monthly meetings have become the perfect place for such matters to be resolved. There are also times when the residents pitch in, for example, to help new neighbors get settled by providing necessities left behind, offering friendly smiles in a new home, and offering assistance to those who need it.

Although there are challenges at times, the residents involved in the Washington House Resident Quality of Life Council have created a community where their voice matters. Pat, Sandy and Gloria share a common feeling of accomplishment in knowing that they are positively impacting their community, while also having fun! When asked for final advice, Pat said simply, "Take one day at a time. Don't worry about tomorrow. It will take care of the day."