United Way “Day of Caring”
Microsoft visits Northaven for amazing United Way “Day of Caring” event
On September 19, 2018, a team of Microsoft employees interacted with Northaven residents to create a delightful day for all. Fifty Microsoft volunteers broke into three groups: maintenance, lifestyle and tech support to wash strollers, organize the library, play Wii bowling and provide tech support.
But this is not the whole story! Young employees friended and interacted with older Northaven residents, creating positive cross-generational caring.
“Our GM, Chase Carpenter, wants Microsoft volunteers to create impact on the United Way Day of Caring,” said Hemangi Parab, the organizer of the large Microsoft volunteer team and wife of Northaven Board Member Vikas Bhatia. “If we just paint a wall, or do a task for the nonprofit, we don’t see how our actions affect its people. We chose Northaven for the opportunity create meaningful interaction between volunteers and residents.”
“New friendships—and a better understanding of what an elder community looks like—emerged from that day,” said Darlene Storti, Executive Director of Northaven. “Hemangi did a great job organizing her volunteers. Lunch was like a noisy high-energy school cafeteria! Volunteers chatted about the new elders they had friended and excitedly discussed what they were going to do that afternoon.”
“Residents told me they loved having people come who were genuinely interested in them. What wonderful, bright visitors they were,” said Mary Quarterman, Director of Assisted Living. “They gave residents hope and proof that people care.”
“People really care at Northaven, and we were so welcomed!” said Hemangi. “At the office the next day, my colleagues raved about what a good experience it was. We certainly hope to come again!”
