November 28, 2025
As Resident Services Director at The Parkway Senior Living, I’ve seen how a strong sense of community transforms senior living. It turns a place to stay into a place to truly thrive. Building connections among residents, team members, and the surrounding neighborhood isn’t optional — it is essential for fostering joy, purpose, and well-being.
Creating community begins with understanding what makes each resident feel valued and included. It also means designing experiences that spark conversation, laughter, and shared memories. Whether it’s a small event, a holiday celebration, an Act of Service, or a themed activity, every shared moment strengthens relationships and helps residents feel like they belong.
From my perspective, every interaction is a chance to weave the fabric of community. When residents feel connected, they enjoy their days more fully. They also experience the emotional and social benefits that come from genuine human connection.
To me, community in senior living means being united as one. It’s about coming together to laugh, connect, and enjoy meaningful experiences that brighten each day.
Building connections is essential, especially for residents who may feel lonely when they first move in. Social engagement helps prevent isolation and depression. It also stimulates the mind and encourages lifelong learning. When residents take part in activities and build friendships, they rediscover purpose and daily joy.
I encourage engagement through group and social events designed to foster teamwork and connection. Social profiles help us match residents with shared interests, making it easier for friendships to form naturally and grow over time.
We also connect our community with the surrounding town through outings and strong partnerships. One of our favorites is Vesper Hall, a local 65+ resource center. Residents enjoy line dancing, bingo, and beachball matches — fun experiences that boost wellness and strengthen community spirit.
One of my favorite events is beachball. It’s always filled with laughter, friendly competition, and teamwork. Any event that includes live music and snacks also tends to bring out big smiles and great energy.
To help new residents feel welcome, our Welcome Committee and Resident Ambassadors play a vital role. I personally greet newcomers each day and invite them to join events. These small gestures help new residents feel comfortable, included, and connected right from the start.
At the heart of The Parkway, connections mean everything. Every conversation, shared laugh, and meaningful moment enriches the lives of our residents. As Resident Services Director, I’ve seen how intentional efforts to build these relationships transform everyday life — turning our building into a true home and creating memories that residents and families treasure.
By prioritizing relationships, engagement, and belonging, we do more than plan events — we build a vibrant and supportive community where everyone can thrive. Ultimately, the connections we nurture make all the difference.
The Parkway Senior Living in Blue Springs, MO offers senior villas, independent senior apartments, assisted living, and memory care with a variety of services and a range of floor plan options. Amenities include restaurant dining, 24-hour bistro, concierge service, housekeeping, events and entertainment, personal care, transportation services, and more. Centrally located near St. Mary’s Medical Center and St. Luke’s Eastwith convenient access to major shopping centers and attractions, including Adams Point Golf Course, KC Royals Stadum, KC Chiefs Stadium, Sporting KC, KC Comets, KC Mavericks, Adams Dairy Landing, and Blue Springs Parks, Trails, and Lakes .
The Parkway Senior Living serves and employs individuals of all faiths, regardless of race, color, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age or handicap, except as limited by state and federal law.
