We believe Tapestry’s seniors’ communities are unique, and that a key ingredient in making them so special is the incredible people who choose to live and work here.

This fall, three of our residents were honoured by being nominated for awards that recognize seniors who have made significant contributions to the retirement communities where they live.

Brenda, a resident at Tapestry at Victoria Harbour in Victoria, BC, was nominated for and won the ‘Let’s Embrace Aging Passionately’ or LEAP award, which is presented annually by the British Columbia Seniors Living Association (BCSLA). BCSLA is a voluntary, membership-driven, organization which includes the owners and operators of Independent and Assisted Living Communities in British Columbia.

The LEAP award honours a resident “who is inspirational, a champion, and makes a valuable difference in the lives of others every day.” Brenda was nominated for the award by Fatima Rabago, a Kinesiologist at Tapestry at Victoria Harbour.

“I nominated Brenda for this award because her unwavering spirit and passion for life serve as a shining example to us all,” Fatima says. “In a world where time often feels like an adversary, Brenda has shown us that embracing the journey of aging with grace, enthusiasm, and an incredible passion for life is not just a choice but a remarkable achievement. Her resilience, positive attitude, and dedication to living every moment to the fullest are truly an inspiration to our entire community,” she adds.

Among her many contributions to her Tapestry community outlined in the nomination, Brenda was recognized for being a keen member of the Social Committee, for championing a resident survey to collect ideas for excursions and activities, her participation in the book club and for starting the “Tapestry Sings” group.

“I have always been involved in book clubs and bridge and social networks,” Brenda says. “Tapestry offers so much that you can’t help but jump in and do so much more,” she adds.

Brenda is a strong supporter of the community’s philanthropic initiatives, the nomination goes on to say, including raising close to $2,000 for Victoria Women’s Transition House Society, which provides shelter and services to hundreds of women and children fleeing intimate partner violence.

An active kayaker and walker, Brenda was also cited for setting an example with her active lifestyle, and for encouraging others to participate in daily fitness activities and outings. She also introduced and supports the New Resident Mentor Program, which involves outreach to new Tapestry residents to help them feel comfortable in their new home.

Brenda says she was both “dumbfounded” and humbled by the award nomination and the recognition. She was, however, able to collect her thoughts for her gracious acceptance speech at the awards gala in September 2023 in Whistler, BC.

“Active aging… is not just a catch phrase for me; it’s the way I choose to live and I embrace it passionately. Tapestry’s programs and activities, based on the 7 Dimensions of Wellness… compel one to live a healthier, more vibrant life. A year ago, this commitment to wellness convinced my husband Bert and me to move in and call Tapestry ‘home’. We’re so glad we did,” Brenda said at the event.

One of Brenda’s key contributions this past year was helping to organize the employee appreciation party in her community. The event is resident-led and gives residents the opportunity to recognize and acknowledge the dedication and service of Tapestry employees.

According to the nomination, in organizing the event, “Brenda reinforced that our wellness culture is co-created by strong mutual respect, deep appreciation and the participation of all community members who believe strongly in our mission to create memorable moments in thriving, connected communities. And, Brenda says, it’s that openness to resident feedback and ideas that she appreciates about Tapestry. “It’s wonderful that Tapestry encourages residents to introduce new initiatives; it’s that atmosphere that energizes people like me to step up and get involved,” she says.

In addition to Brenda’s high-profile and well-deserved award, two residents at Tapestry at Village Gate West in Etobicoke, Ontario were also recognized.

Married couple Murray and Pat were outstanding finalists for the Resident Champion Award, as part of the Retirement Homes Regulatory Authority’s (RHRA) annual recognition event, also held earlier this fall.

RHRA created the Resident Champion Award to recognize licensed retirement home residents who contribute to the spirit of their home and community. Pat and Murray were nominated for the award because of their welcoming nature and their earnest engagement in community life within their Tapestry community.

The couple are active in several of the community’s social groups, including the Welcoming Committee and the Wellness Council. “To help create that special Tapestry ‘feeling’, they have taken it upon themselves to invite new residents to join them for a meal or even host them in their suite to help them feel at ease,” the nomination says. “This small, but significant gesture helps to ensure that no resident dines alone and that newcomers can meet another resident who has been a long-time member of the community.”

The nomination also noted the couple’s “contagious positive personalities” and commitment to nurturing strong relationships with their fellow residents.

Tapestry would like to recognize and thank all three nominees and award recipients for their valuable ongoing contributions to our communities. Congratulations!

If you are considering a move to a seniors’ community and want to learn more about how wonderful your life could be at Tapestry, please contact us. Now is the perfect time to explore one of our communities by enjoying a private tour and complimentary lunch.  Make the move before December 31^st, 2023, and take advantage of our limited time offer to receive $5,000 in move-in incentives.