A Golden Year of Memories

November 1, 2024 | Brian Parman, Director, The Point & Pavilion

In life, certain moments etch themselves deeply into our souls, leaving lasting impressions. These golden memories, whether joyous or bittersweet, shape who we are and enrich our lives. This year I am reminded of so many special moments that we have shared here on our campus:

The year began with a dream realized: to create a monthly evening program that would foster community and provide opportunities for residents, friends, and family to gather for shared experiences. Thanks to a collaborative partnership with Denise Lee OnStage and her nonprofit organization, Visions For Change, Inc., we were able to launch a monthly cabaret series showcasing incredible musical talent from the DFW metroplex. I’m even more excited to announce that the series will relaunch in January 2025 with the intention of bringing people together, fostering greater understanding, and creating a space where everyone feels seen and heard.

The Point at CC Young was honored by LeadingAge Texas with The Excellence in Innovation Award for our exceptional contributions and positive impact The Point has on both residents and the greater community.

It was an honor and privilege to welcome Colin Milner, President of the International Council on Active Aging, to our campus. He addressed residents and helped launch The CC Young Fit For Life Wellness Challenge for our residents, Point members, and staff. Colin emphasized how our progressive exercise program builds upon existing skills and knowledge, empowering participants to challenge themselves and live healthier lives.

The positive impact of our campus walking challenge is still felt today. Not only did it promote physical health, but it also fostered a sense of community and accomplishment among our residents, Point members, and staff. Who would have thought that we collectively had enough steps to walk from Dallas, Texas, to Paris, France, and ultimately almost all the way around the globe! All it took was the right mindset and a commitment to forward progress!

Art offers a powerful way to reconnect with ourselves and find new meaning in our lives. It’s a space where we can explore our passions, express our creativity, and connect with others who share our mutual interests. At CC Young, The annual Spirit is Ageless Art & Writing Contest, monthly gallery shows, art and acting workshops, or live performance art through involvement in The CC Young Un’s Choir or participation in our annual CC Young’s Got Talent Show” continue to bring people together of all ages and from all walks of life together.

Art is not just about creating; it’s also about experiencing and connecting. It’s about finding inspiration in the work of others and being inspired to create our own. It’s about seeing the world through a different lens and appreciating the beauty that surrounds us.

Sometimes, the most impactful moments are unplanned and arise from unexpected situations. These impromptu moments often carry a special meaning and create lasting memories.

One of the most unforgettable moments of the year was the opportunity to experience a total solar eclipse. While I initially wasn’t sure what the fuss was about, I quickly realized the significance of this natural phenomenon. I’ve never seen so many members of our community gather together, virtually filling any open space with a clear view of the sky. As darkness descended upon the campus, the world seemed to hold its breath.

Another heartwarming example unfolded as Feathers, a mother duck, nested and hatched her eggs near the entrance to our central park. Residents and staff watched with delight as she carefully guarded her eggs and nurtured her ducklings. Inspired by this experience, CC Young Resident Judith Banes wrote, illustrated, and published her first children’s book about Feather’s Ducklings for her grandson. Copies of the book were sold to raise funds for the CC Young Benevolence Fund.

In 2024, we had the privilege of celebrating not one, but six centenarians on our campus: Emily Hollandsworth, Barbara Mott, Joseph Coleman, Bob Ross, Laney Arant, and Al Tyler. It was a particularly touching experience to celebrate Laney Arant, who passed away just days after this event. Making that day possible for her and her family was a testament to the importance of these celebrations and the special place CC Young holds in our community. These celebrations offered opportunities to learn about the fascinating lives and contributions of these remarkable residents.

Throughout the year, residents and staff formed lifelong connections through various campus activities and events. These moments, filled with laughter, shared experiences, and mutual support, created a sense of extended family within the CCY community. The positive impact of our events was evident when a young visitor at FAM JAM asked if they could return the following week to enjoy the campus again!

In the fall, there are plenty of wonderful opportunities and events on our calendar, from the 2nd Annual Trunk or Treat Extravaganza to the Campus Alzheimer’s Walk, Annual Fall Fest, The Spirit Is Ageless Celebration of Artists and Writers, and the multiple events planned to honor and recognize our Veterans and their spouses.

2024 was a year filled with golden moments at CC Young. As you gather with your loved ones this Thanksgiving, I encourage you to reflect on this year and share the memories that you cherish most. Let’s continue to create lasting memories and build upon the strong sense of community that makes CC Young so special.

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