Innovative programming enhances senior living at Greenfields of Geneva
GreenFields of Geneva has a well-deserved reputation for offering an outstanding lifestyle enriched through innovative programming.
Under the ownership of Lifespace Communities, GreenFields senior living community has been actively and purposefully enhancing its programming across the community.
Their Lived Experience initiative encourages newer and greater opportunities for adventure, learning, exploration and trying new things. With the support and collaboration of Lifespace, the lifestyle team at GreenFields is increasingly focusing on the healthcare neighborhoods of memory care and skilled nursing.
The power of a dedicated team
Integral to the success are the dedicated lifestyle professionals: Courtney Punzio, lifestyles assistant for skilled nursing, and Becky Dykes, activities lead for memory care. These additions to the team are helping redefine what skilled nursing and memory care can look and feel like, full of energy, engagement and deep connection.
Courtney’s journey: From dining room to Daily Delight
Courtney’s path to her current role is a testament to how passion and purpose can evolve over time. She began working as a dining room server at a senior living community while attending Batavia High School. “I was fulfilling my graduation requirement of having a job. One of my teachers signed me up,” she recalled. That experience opened the door to a career in senior living that’s now spanned more than 20 years.
Several years ago, while working at Greenfields in dining in assisted living, Courtney decided to enroll at Waubonsee Community College to become a CNA. “I wanted to spend more time with the residents and get to know them better,” she explained. She loved her new role. Her caring nature and ability to connect did not go unnoticed, and when an opening in activities in skilled nursing became available, her colleagues encouraged her to pursue it.
Bringing energy and engagement to skilled nursing
“Other CNAs inspired me to go after it. They said I was good with the residents,” she said. Now leading programming in skilled nursing, Courtney brings laughter, connection and fun to the residents every day. From chair volleyball and golf to parachute games and arts and crafts, the calendar is full of meaningful opportunities to engage.
Since Courtney stepped into the role, “there’s more life up here; more energy, laughter and smiling,” said team member Tara Wilczak, lifestyles lead in assisted living.” Courtney makes them laugh a lot. She’ll do anything to make them smile.” Just as importantly, Courtney prioritizes one-on-one moments with residents who might not be participating in group activities. “Sometimes they just want to sit and hold hands or look at pictures of your vacation,” Tara said.
Resident Doray put it best: “Courtney is the best. She brings a brightness to our days. Believe me!”
Becky brings new depth to Memory Care
GreenFields’ memory care neighborhood also recently welcomed a new leader, Becky Dykes, who began in March and has already made a significant impact. With more than a decade of experience in senior living, Becky brings both expertise and heart to her role.
Her inspiration for working in senior living came from a personal place. “My grandmother was in a nursing home, and we were very close. I’d take her to activities to get her out of her room. That’s how I first got introduced,” Becky said.
Creating meaningful moments in Memory Care
“I love working in memory care. It’s really fun,” she said. “I understand why some people are afraid of it, but the fact is, we still have a lot of fun. That’s my message. The fun doesn’t stop.”
Becky has elevated the programming with new initiatives and a strong sense of purpose. She leads a variety of activities, including cooking and travel clubs, arts and crafts, short story book discussions, and daily chronicles that invite residents to share memories. Sensory gardens and raised flower beds enable residents to connect with nature, and music is a constant presence, with Becky often playing the guitar.
“We usually have six or seven activities each day. I like to be goofy, make people laugh and find out the things we relate to,” Becky said. “I learn so much from the residents, who they were, and what they remember. I love it.”
Becky has also made it a priority to personally connect with every family, calling each one to introduce herself and share her vision for the community.
A culture of collaboration and support
Both Courtney and Becky credit GreenFields’ supportive culture and the broader Lifespace organization for helping them succeed. The lifestyle teams regularly collaborate across communities, sharing ideas and inspiration that lead to even stronger programming.
Tara noted that activities in healthcare have seen a meaningful shift. “There’s a lot more substance, with a lot of support from the Lifespace Support Center,” she said. “The team has been given more responsibilities and amplified the programming.”
Creating community and engagement, one smile at a time
From group games and fitness classes to quiet one-on-one visits, Courtney and Becky are creating moments of joy and purpose every day. Their dedication reflects GreenFields’ mission to help each resident thrive physically, emotionally and socially.
GreenFields of Geneva
GreenFields of Geneva is a luxury senior living community providing an active and engaging retirement lifestyle in an ideal location. As a Life Plan Community, formerly known as a CCRC, GreenFields offers a complete continuum of care: independent living, assisted living, memory support, rehabilitation, and skilled nursing. GreenFields of Geneva is owned by Lifespace Communities, a nonprofit organization with more than 45 years of experience in senior living. For additional information, call 630/578-7969 or visit www.GreenFieldsGeneva.org.