I am authoring this article with spring only a few more days away. By the time you read the article it will be April, and spring will be upon us. Spring is refreshing because it marks the transition from the cold, dormant winter to a season full of life, warmth, and renewal. The air becomes crisp and fragrant with blooming flowers, the days grow longer, and the sun shines brighter, lifting spirits and energizing the soul. Trees regain their lush green leaves, birds return with cheerful songs, and the world feels alive with vibrant colors and fresh scents. The gentle breeze and mild temperatures make outdoor activities more enjoyable, whether it is a walk in the park, a picnic, or simply soaking in the beauty of nature. Spring’s arrival brings a sense of hope, growth, and rejuvenation, making it one of the most uplifting and refreshing times of the year.

In my first article as President, I told you that one of my initiatives is closing the gap between Independent Living (IL) and Continuing Care (CC). I said the Council would work towards a closer connection between those in IL and our neighbors in CC. I indicated that the Council would work to initiate a program for IL residents to share their time and talents with those who are “across the street.” I mentioned in the September Sunburst that I would work to get one of the 13 Council Committees to hold a meeting in CC each month. I am now able to tell you that starting this month (April) a Council Committee will be holding their meeting at Caton Woods. Here is the schedule for those committee meetings:

• April 8th at 11 a.m. is the Health Services Committee
• April 16th at 2 p.m. is the Resident Life Committee
• May 5th at 1 p.m. is the Safety and Security Committee
• June 24th at 10 a.m. is the Grounds Committee
• July 21st at 1:30 p.m. is the Dining Services Committee
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My goal in doing this is to enhance overall community engagement, as residents of all care levels can participate in shared activities such as a committee meeting it gives the community a sense of belonging and inclusivity. So, I am encouraging those residents in IL as well as the residents in CC to attend these schedule committee meeting at Caton Woods. By doing so this will reunite the CC residents who once lived across the hall but now live across the street. The trip is a short distance. I hope to see a lot of IL residents at these committee meeting in Caton Woods.

April is also the month that we annually support our dining scholars. This year is the 37th Anniversary of the Charlestown Scholars’ Program. The Scholars’ Program is primarily funded by donations from our residents, enabling us to provide two types of scholarships, a Traditional four-year scholarship, or a one-year renewable scholarship. Currently we have 91 active Scholars in the program, some of whom will be graduating this spring. The 2025 class has 20 traditional and 1 one-year candidates. The 2025 applicants are required to have worked 1,000 hours at Charlestown, have at least a 2.5 GPA and must be an employee in good standing prior to being accepted into the Scholars program.

Our Scholars will receive up to $5,000/year ($2,500/semester). This is a $1,000 increase over last year. Scholars will also receive a one-time $1,000 Technology grant to assist with things like laptop computers, tablets, software, scientific calculators, etc. In addition to donations, scholars can also apply for “Named Scholarships” which provide additional dollars. Applicants need a 3.0 GPA or better and must meet with the Scholarship committee to be selected. So please consider donating to the scholarship fund this month.