Posted: December 23, 2020
2020 is a year none of us will forget but despite it all, great things happened here at Holly Creek Life Plan Community. We’re going to take a look back at some of the top stories about our community – both on TV and in print. As we take this trip down 2020 memory lane, please remember none of these would happen without the amazing residents, their families and the Holly Creek staff who together make our community a home.
The year started off with stories in the Denver Post and Centennial Citizen on the innovative partnership between Holly Creek and Generation Technology (GenTech). Volunteers from Cherry Creek High School work one-on-one with residents to help them get the most out of their desk and laptop computers, smart phones and tablets. The tech-savvy teens educated and trained residents to better connect on social media and how to use Zoom, Facetime and GoToMeeting. Nobody at that time knew just how valuable these skills would prove to be. Resident Sue Sherman said, “working with the GenTech volunteers is much easier and friendlier than trouble-shooting tech problems with family members.”
A subsequent story featured dog-friendly retirement and our residents Russ & Cathy Jones with their rescued golden retriever Brody. It takes a four-legged friend to keep up with the Jones’s!
With the onset of COVID, news stories on Holly Creek shifted how our community was keeping residents and staff safe and connected. That’s when our own radio station, HCRK was highlighted. Our dedicated DJs, comprised of residents and staff alike, have kept the entire community looped in on the latest developments around COVID-19 and innovative ways residents could continue the activities they love. Pat and Ed Van Bramer were featured on 9News about how they stay connected to their grandchildren through technology and the value HCRK provides.
Halfway through the year, CBS Saturday Morning News pointed the national spotlight toward Holly Creek, airing its story about the partnership with GenTech. That story viewed by more than three million viewers across the country!
Residents and staff have also found a groove in the new routines of COVID-era living. A story entitled ‘Mastering the art of thriving during COVID-19,’ shared how new residents George and Billie Mae Scheuernstuhl moved to Holly Creek during the pandemic and created new opportunities to continue their active lifestyles.
Residents Dave and Marge Vitale were also featured in a story about how their daughter Jill Vitale-Aussem helped them shop for a retirement company. In case you haven’t heard, Jill is the new President and CEO of Christian Living Communities!
Finally, the year was capped with a touching story on how staff and residents worked together to deliver 108 gift boxes to underprivileged children through the nonprofit Operation Christmas Child.
We wish you and your family a joyful Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year. Here is to an even better 2021!