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Friendship Village Promotes Resident-Driven Programming

When Kenn Piotrowski expressed interest in adding a Tai Chi class at Friendship Village in Schaumburg, they didn't hire someone or direct staff members to come up with a program. Instead, they empowered him to teach it himself. Friendship Village is a complete continuum of care retirement community in Schaumburg. Piotrowski has been a resident there for the past seven months.

"They make their programming very inclusive and allow residents to share their experiences," he said.

In June, Piotrowski who is 68, used the skills he has learned over several years to set up a weekly opportunity for residents to learn about Tai Chi. He was amazed at how many people came to learn more. Based on the interest Piotrowski started a beginners class and two months later has between six and 12 residents who participate in the 45-minute classes."It has been very rewarding for me having the opportunity to volunteer and use my skills," he said.

"We love to offer opportunities for resident-initiated programs when we're able. The programs tend to draw a lot of enthusiasm," said Jeff Rose, lifestyles manager. "Our residents have a wide variety of experiences and talent and we encourage them to share those with one another."

Tai Chi isn't the only new venture for Piotrowski. Since moving to Friendship Village in February he has tried archery, driven a go-kart and participated in his first talent show. He goes to the fitness center regularly, attends classes and lectures and has gone to Arlington International Race Course and a Cubs game.

The idea, said Rose, is to engage residents in what they love as well as what they would love to try.

"Activities and outings are resident-driven. They offer suggestions and tell us what they would like to see and we do our best to accommodate everyone's interests," said Rose. "We also offer up a lot of ideas that residents might never have thought of, but are quick to embrace."

Piotrowski had retired from his position as a senior manager in research and design project management, when he attended a self-defense class for seniors at Friendship Villag. He was really impressed and this eventually lead to his decision to move there. "I was just amazed at how beautiful it is and the people are so welcoming," he said. "It has been one of the best decisions I've ever made in my life. I am happier than I've ever been in a long, long time."

Not a sedentary person previously, Piotrowski says he used to be fairly confined to his neighborhood and a few friends, but his activity level has gone up since moving to Friendship Village. "I'm never bored here. I don't know how anybody can be bored here. It is pretty much non-stop. I am rarely in my apartment."

Friendship Village is a leading Chicago-area retirement community offering a complete continuum of care including independent living garden homes and apartment homes, as well as assisted living, memory support, skilled care, and short- and long-term rehabilitation services. For more than 37 years, Friendship Village has been providing Chicago area seniors with exceptional retirement living options. For additional information visit www.FriendshipVillage.org

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