From the time that I first volunteered at Porter Hills Village (PHV) while I was in college, I was very impressed by this organization's commitment to seniors, drive for excellence, and dedicated, knowledgeable staff. Now, having worked at Porter Hills for more than 5 years, I am even more impressed by what I am able to observe and participate in on a daily basis. Porter Hills truly lives up to its mission of "providing a continuum of high quality communities and services for older adults in accordance with Christian values". In comparison with other like communities in which I have worked and/or visited, Porter Hills is the best. Porter Hills is an amazing place and I am blessed to be here.
It’s the equal of a walk in the park---my 25 to 30 minute journey through the halls of the interconnected Porter Hills Village Center and Garden Apartments West and East, the perfect route during Michigan’s inclement weather. There is a hum of activity—purchases being made in the PX, the Store of Treasures or the Emporium, a table or two of Bridge or Porker, perhaps the artists’ group at work in the Activity Room, a history class in the Assembly room and a group of friends or family members having lunch in the Café. Everyone one smiles and nods a greeting as we navigate the traffic of walkers and Amigos. Or I stop to speak with acquaintances and the greeter at the desk in the apartments lobby. If I feel the need of a more meditative stroll, I wait until the lunch or pre-dinner hour or move up to the second or third floors where the halls are quiet. As I pick up my coat back outside the Meeting Hall, I smile at the sound and sight of the dear little children of our daycare center Generations. It may be snowing or raining outdoors, but “It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood”!
I have been volunteering at Porter Hills Village as a member of the Porter Hills Women's Board since 2004, first taking the book cart around the Health Center and more recently serving in the Coffee Shop. The residents seem very happy and well cared for. Although we don't have that many guests in the Coffee Shop, the regulars who do come have formed lasting bonds with each other and the volunteers who serve them and we have many good laughs. I am very impressed with the dedication of those staff members with whom I interact on a regular basis (Executive Director, Volunteer Coordinator, Catered Living Manager, etc.).