When Sara Darnell, Executive Director of TimberView Crossing, hosts a party, it’s always a family occasion. This year’s Thanksgiving meal is no exception. All 45 residents at TimberView Crossing will receive a special invitation for them and a guest to attend a delectable Thanksgiving Day meal. And, of course, their director will join them. “I’ll be there that day,” she says. “They’re like family, and I’ll celebrate with them.”
And what a celebration she’s planning! The menu includes spiral ham, turkey breast, sweet potatoes with marshmallows, hot rolls with butter, asparagus with hollandaise sauce, and cranberry sauce, as well as three kinds of pies: chocolate, pumpkin, and pecan. And to drink? Iced tea, water, coffee, and sparkling cider. What a feast!
Sara has been the administrator at TimberView Crossing for nearly three years, and she has done a lot to make the residents feel at home. She spent 14 years as the Activities Director, and during that time, she learned a lot about the kinds of programs and events seniors love most. In 1998, the NCAP chose Sara as Activity Director of the Year. “Our residents love all the events. They are always gossiping in the halls to each other about the activities,” she says.
The pictures on TimberView’s website are a testament to the diverse range of programs residents enjoy. From gardening to bowling and watercolor to card games, there’s always something happening at TimberView. They hold events in several places, including the sunroom. The staff schedules and displays activities and events on the calendar in the great room so residents know what to look forward to. The facility provides a bus for transportation to activities and events away from the building.
Sara has also created a comfortable work environment at TimberView. “I have six employees who have been with me for over ten years. I’m proud of my team.” They have a total of 33 employees, and they are also part of the TimberView family. Sara says, “We are family-oriented here. The seniors are the best part of our day. Making a difference in their day, in their lives, and giving quality of life to them is rewarding enough.”
TimberView welcomes volunteers and visitors—even four-legged friends. “We are pet friendly. All dogs are welcome. Our residents love them.”
So, if you have a few moments to spare, stop by and visit TimberView Crossing. Sara and her staff will welcome you, the residents will enjoy your company, and you will be blessed by the knowledge that you’ve brightened someone’s day.
