Parkview Pulse: Celebrating 60 Years of Excellence!
March 2025
60 Years of Care Honouring Our Past, Celebrating Our Present, Inspiring Our Future
Inside the Second Edition of The Parkview Pulse
Here’s what you’ll discover in this exciting new issue:
A message from the CEO and The Board of Directors.....................................................
pg. 3
A word from our Chaplain.................................................................................................................
pg. 4
Message from the Family Council..........................................................................................
60 Reasons why Our Residents Love Parkview....................................................................
pg. 5
Let’s Celebrate 60!............................................................................................................................
Our Team Code of Conduct..............................................................................................................
pg. 6
Welcome to the Team!..................................................................................................................
February-March Recap........................................................................................................................
pg. 7
National Nutrition Month...................................................................................................................
pg. 8
IPAC Updates.......................................................................................................................................
The Heart of Parkview: Employee Recognition Program...............................................
pg. 9
Congratulatory News............................................................................................................................
pg. 10
Meet your Neighbor........................................................................................................................
Bonus! + Parkview Village: General Information..................................................................
pg. 11
Giving Back.................................................................................................................................................
pg. 12
2
A MESSAGE FROM...
THE CEO
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
D ear Team,
G reetings from the Board of Directors!
This year we are marking 60 years since the opening of the first Parkview facility. This is an exciting time, and a moment to reflect on what this place has become. I’ve been thinking about the many ways that we are connected to Parkview and have come to value this place and the people who make it a community. For some, it may be through visiting friends and family here, or taking a tour and getting on a waiting list, or walking in for a job interview. There are many Pathways to Parkview – one for each of us who are connected to this community. I first heard about Parkview in 1979. I was working as a volunteer with a Mennonite organization in the US, and was introduced to six young folks from the Stouffville region who were also there doing service work. They had names like “Reesor” and “Drudge” and “McDowell.” We ended up joining forces, and toured the Midwest US and Ontario doing music and drama. And they became life-long friends. They were connected to many of the folks who dreamed up the idea for Parkview, and who saw it through to fruition, and so it was just a part of our regular conversation. (Four of the seven of us have served on the Parkview Board.) Over the years I came to know a Parkview through these folks and their families, and their experiences of this community. I was also learning about the philosophy behind the place and the initiating vision for a space that affirmed people of all backgrounds. It was to be driven by convictions and a quiet faith, a place where those who were aging could do it in supportive and affirming surroundings, and those who assisted them could be acknowledged in their very important work. Years later, when I finally moved back to Ontario, and settled in Stouffville, the loop continued to close when I agreed to serve on the Parkview Board. So my path here is quite individual, but so are your paths as well. As you are reading this, I hope that you reflect on your own Path to Parkview, and that you can also see it with wonder, amusement and appreciation. In this year of celebrations, think of your own relationship to Parkview.
As we move into spring, I want to recognize the dedication and commitment each of you brings to Parkview Services for Seniors. Your hard work continues to drive improvements across our organization, from enhancing operations to expanding wellness programs and strengthening staff development. We remain focused on recruitment and retention, particularly for Registered Practical Nurses, while seeing positive trends in Personal Support Worker retention. To celebrate and support our team, our 60th Anniversary celebrations will highlight staff contributions. On May 28, 2025, we will host our Staff Awards Ceremony to honour your dedication. We are also upgrading the staff room at the Home to enhance your workspace. Additionally, we encourage staff to apply for 60 professional development bursaries of $500 each, with a deadline of May 1, 2025. Key initiatives are also moving forward. The Gardenview Café expansion launches in April, operating Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays with an updated menu. Capital projects, including the nurse call system upgrade and roofing improvements, remain on track, and we are actively managing the impact of potential tariffs on new bed orders. Our 60th Anniversary celebrations will continue throughout the year, with key events each month. Please check the calendar of upcoming events to stay informed and participate.
Thank you for your dedication—I look forward to celebrating our achievements together!
What was your Path to get here?
Hamlet Hamlet Nation, CEO
Ivan Emke Board Chair
3
A WORD FROM OUR CHAPLAIN A s we enter March and April, we are reminded of the sacred observances that connect us to faith, tradition and one another. Christians begin Lent, a time of prayer, abstinence, reflection and preparation leading to the celebration of Easter, while Muslims observe Ramadan, a time of fasting and prayer. Jewish Passover reflects on freedom and faith, and Hindus celebrate Holi, marking the arrival of spring. Amidst these solemn and joyous occasions, let us support one another in our diverse beliefs and celebrate our shared humanity. May peace, joy, and spiritual renewal fill our hearts and community. Blessings to each and everyone of you during this sacred time! With many blessings! Joshy Varghese
MESSAGE FROM THE FAMILY COUNCIL I n the January issue of the Parkview Pulse, the Parkview Home Family Council announced its’ intent to hold a “Coffee and Conversations” event for the purpose of recruiting additional
members and provide a casual forum for senior staff and residents’ families to meet. The event took place on February 6th. It was enjoyed by all attendees. A measure of the events success is that we are now a Family Council of four fulltime members and a volunteer. We held our first meeting March 6th. The enthusiasm was remarkable. We are getting organized and putting plans in place to raise funds for Parkview Home as well as Family Council sponsored programs for residents. We have met with the Life Enrichment team and have approved the allocation of some of our existing funds to be used by Life Enrichment for additional entertainment events including travelling entertainers within the RHAs.
We have formed a Garden Committee, who will work closely with Life Enrichment, to enhance the beauty of the patio areas of each RHA this spring.We are investigating the possible need to organize support groups for resident’s family members and friends of residents who are their caregivers. We would hope to provide a safe meeting place to chat and share experiences with the guidance of professional facilitation. We have more initiatives yet to explore so there is plenty of room for new members. Soon we will post the name, position and email for the current Family Council members in the glass cabinet outside the Family Dining room. In the meantime, if you wish to join us, please don’t hesitate to contact Mike Pyatt, Family Council Chairman, mpyatt77@gmail.com or Eva Cheung, Parkview Home Social Worker, echeung@parkviewhome.ca.
4
60 REASONS WHY...
LOVE PARKVIEW HOME
LET’S CELEBRATE 60! P arkview Services for Seniors is proud to mark its 60th anniversary—a milestone that reflects decades of dedication, compassion, and a strong sense of community. To celebrate this special occasion, we have planned special events that honour our residents, staff, and the families who have been part of our journey. Join us for memorable celebrations filled with joy, gratitude, and reflection. From special gatherings and entertainment to heartfelt tributes, these events will bring everyone together to celebrate our rich history and bright future.
For more details or to see how you can get involved, email us at celebrate60@parkviewhome.ca
DID YOU KNOW...? T he 60th anniversary is the Diamond
Anniversary, symbolizing strength, lasting love, and achievements. Diamonds represent endurance after six decades!
It is truly a milestone, showcasing incredible commitment, stability, and resilience.
5
OUR TEAM CODE OF CONDUCT
Dear Team,
Our Team Code of Conduct was officially introduced on February 26th 2025, in recognition of Pink Shirt Day—a day that reminds us just how powerful kindness can be and why standing together against bullying truly matters. This Code of Conduct isn’t just a document—it’s a reflection of who we are as a team. With your thoughtful input and shared commitment, we’ve created something meaningful that now hangs proudly throughout our home. Seeing it displayed is a daily reminder of the respect, support, and care we show one another. This year’s Pink Shirt Day theme, “ Let Kindness Grow ,” is such a beautiful message. It’s the little things—kind words, small gestures, moments of understanding—that make our home a welcoming and uplifting place for everyone. Thank you for being the heart of our team and for bringing these values to life every single day. Let’s keep lifting each other up and making kindness a part of everything we do!
Home Administrator
Did you know...? S tudies show that acts of kindness—such as expressing gratitude, offering support, or simply being friendly—can boost morale, reduce stress, and increase overall job satisfaction.
WELCOME TO THE TEAM!
WE ARE DELIGHTED TO EXTEND A WARM PARKVIEW WELCOME TO THE NEWEST MEMBERS OF OUR TEAM: Aisosa Ikpewe Pralav K C Ifeoma Oseji E ach of you brings unique skills, talents, and experiences that will enhance our community, and we are thrilled to have you on board!
To all staff, please join us in warmly welcoming our new team members. A friendly smile, a brief chat, or a helping hand can go a long way in making them feel welcome here at Parkview. Let’s continue fostering a positive and inclusive environment together!
Foster Agyekum Neshat Behpour Ramone Guimmayen
6
FEBRUARY-MARCH RECAP
Black History Month Potluck
F ebruary is Black History Month, a time to honour the history, achievements, and contributions of Black communities. It’s a moment to reflect on the resilience, culture, and impact of Black leaders, both past and present, while recognizing the ongoing journey toward equality and inclusion. This month reminds us to celebrate diversity, uplift Black voices, and create a workplace where everyone feels valued. A big thank you to everyone who participated in the Black History Month potluck! Whether you contributed a dish or joined in the celebration, your presence made it special. The spread included jollof rice, fried chicken, cassava, jerk chicken, rice and peas, chicken adobo, and more—each dish a delicious tribute to diverse culinary traditions.
Shrove Tuesday
Ash Wednesday
S hrove Tuesday, or Pancake Day, is the day before Ash Wednesday and the start of Lent. The name "Shrove" comes from the Old English word "shrive," meaning to confess sins. Traditionally, it's a time for reflection and preparing for the 40-day fasting period. This year, we celebrated by cooking pancakes for all shifts. Thank you to everyone who joined the feast!
O bserved on February 26, 2025, Ash Wednesday marks the start of Lent, a 40-day period of reflection, fasting, and spiritual preparation for Easter. Many Christians seek renewal through prayer, self-discipline, and acts of kindness. During services, ashes are placed on the forehead in a cross, symbolizing humility, repentance, and life’s impermanence. Whether you observe this tradition or reflect on its meaning, Ash Wednesday encourages renewal, mindfulness, and compassion.
7
International Women’s Day
St. Patrick’s Day
NATIONAL NUTRITION MONTH A message from our Dietician W elcome to Nutrition Month! This year’s theme is Nourish to Flourish! As we crawl out of hibernation, it is a great time to promote your health and well-being. When thinking of nourishing our bodies, we need to remember it is not only about feeding our hunger, it is also about taking care of our physical, mental and emotional health! When grocery shopping and meal planning, it is important to include a variety of foods and flavours, more whole-grain choices, fresh fruits and vegetables, less processed food and foods that are lower in fat, sugar and salt. Eating healthier can be an overwhelming task when your lifestyle is busy. You can start by making one change at a time, i.e., buy whole wheat tortillas instead of white, or buy 1% milk instead of 2% milk and keep going! Eventually you will be making healthy choices without even noticing. O n March 8, 2025, International Women’s Day honours the achievements, resilience, and contributions of women worldwide. It is a time to recognize progress toward gender equality while advocating for continued change. This year’s theme highlights the importance of empowerment, inclusivity, and breaking barriers. Whether through reflection, appreciation, or action, let us celebrate the women who inspire us and work toward a future of equality and opportunity for all.
T aking place on March 17, 2025, St. Patrick’s Day commemorates St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, and celebrates the rich culture, history, and traditions of Ireland. It is a day marked by parades, festive gatherings, and the wearing of green, symbolizing luck, unity, and the beauty of Irish pride.
St. Patrick's Day is a joyful occasion to embrace culture, connection, and the spirit of fun.
IPAC UPDATES... To ensure resident safety and prevent infections, staff must not bring personal belongings (jackets, bags, purses) into Resident Home Areas (RHAs), as these items can transfer harmful organisms between the Home and the community. Please store all personal belongings in the designated basement locker rooms before entering RHAs. This helps protect residents, staff, and your own home and family. Thank you for supporting infection control efforts and keeping everyone safe!
Sahiba Saini IPAC Lead
RECIPES Scan for Tasty Ideas!
Parkview Staff’s Culinary Creations
Rochelle Larocque Dietician
8
THE HEART OF PARKVIEW EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION PROGRAM FEBRUARY
“D ear Parkview Family,
I am truly honoured to receive the Employee of the Month award. Since joining Parkview Home in 2012, it has been a privilege to serve and care for this wonderful community. I take great pride in ensuring that our home remains a safe and comfortable place for everyone. Parkview Home is more than just a workplace—it is a family. I am deeply grateful for the support and kindness of my colleagues and residents, who make every day meaningful. Thank you for this recognition.”
Awais Syed
HONOURABLE MENTIONS
Corinne MacLaean
Vikktoria Famadico
F or over 17 years, Corinne has been an employee of Parkview Village as an Activity Aide. Thank you for your hard work!
V ikktoria has been a Behavioural Support Ontario (BSO) worker for five years. Thank you for providing exceptional care to residents.
MARCH
“T o everyone at Parkview, I am truly honoured to be named Employee of the Month. I appreciate all the support from my amazing coworkers and the opportunity to contribute to such a great team. At the end of the day, we’re all in this together, and it’s the hard work and dedication from everyone that makes us a success. Thank you again. I’m grateful to be part of this incredible team!”
Ala Cocieru
HONOURABLE MENTIONS
Ryan Reyes
Donna Frampton F or 11 years of dedicated service at Parkview as the Dietary Coordinator. We appreciate your hard work and commitment! 9
R yan has served as a maintenance worker since 2017. We truly appreciate his contributions!
CONGRATULATORY NEWS
M aria Pena from Settlers Terrace, welcomed her second grandchild, Ava , into the world just a couple of months ago. She is a bundle of joy and a beautiful addition to the family. For Maria, Ava has
O live Thompson from Cedar Grove celebrated her 100th birthday on March 3rd. What an incredible milestone!
been the greatest blessing for 2025.
P arkview Home’s Director of Care, Angela Bisschop, has successfully completed her Administrator Leadership course !
B oris Fink, our Resource Nurse, has recently completed his Management of Long Term Care course !
MEET YOUR NEIGHBOR IN THIS SPECIAL Q&A, WE HEAR FROM MR. & MRS. WONG, A COUPLE WHO HAS SHARED MANY WONDERFUL YEARS TOGETHER, BOTH IN LIFE AND AT PARKVIEW HOME
Q: What’s your favorite memory from your early years together? A: Mrs. Wong - My favourite memory is when we travelled to Florida. We met so many wonderful people along the way. We would also travel to New Brunswick and make trips back and forth to Toronto to visit our family here. Q: What has it been like for you both to share this chapter of your lives together? A: Mrs. Wong - I was surprised, like, "Oh wow!" I wasn't really expecting anything like this. It's truly special being here, both at the same time. Mr. Wong - I would work all across Canada and have the pleasure of meeting so many kind and wonderful people along the way.
Mr. and Mrs. Wong of Maple Grove Terrace
Mr. Wong - She is one of the best people I've ever met. It's truly wonderful, very wonderful.
Q: What advice or message would you share with couples today? A: Mrs. Wong - Just work hard and always communicate about what you’re going to do... and then do it. Trust each other and always be true. Mr. Wong - Same here. Trust each other, work hard, and stay focused. We don't play around. Look after each other and your families. The main thing is to always support each other.
Final Messages: A: Mrs. Wong - We read each other's minds, though I’m not the boss or anything! We just agree on what we’re doing. I don’t get mad if he says "no," though he can be a bit stubborn at times. Mr. Wong - We treat each other real good. Real real good.
10
Bonus! Your Game Break Starts Here! Word Search
Trivia Time!
What is the term for the first day of spring when day and night are nearly equal?
Answer:
What mythological being is a part of St. Patrick's Day lore and Irish culture?
Answer:
Some Funny Business
What's the difference between spring rolls and summer rolls? ...Their seasoning.
February Spring
March Parkview
PARKVIEW VILLAGE: GENERAL INFORMATION Parkview Village continues its commitment to fostering a vibrant and engaging environment for our residents, staff, and senior community. Take a look at the services available in April.
Gardenview Café
When: Every Tuesday & Thursday, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm Where: Parkview Village Café E njoy lunch specials, drinks, and desserts!
File your Taxes: LDB Business Services
When: April 11th, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm Where: Village Apartment’s Main Lobby
Comfort at Your Feet: ‘Nelly’s Shoes’ Visit When: April 16th, 11:00 am – 4:00 pm Where: Village Board Room D iscover a range of comfortable footwear perfect for all occasions and activities!
B ring your T4s and relevant tax documents to the LDB Assistant, who will be stationed during that time for any questions you may have.
Fresh Finds: Hulshof Farm Market
When: Every Friday, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Where: Village Administration Lobby
E xplore fresh organic fruits, vegetables, and delicious treats to support our community farmers!
11
GIVING BACK
Honouring Our Past, Celebrating Our Present, Inspiring Our Future F or 60 years, Parkview has been dedicated to improving the lives of seniors. As we mark this milestone in 2025, we remain committed to enhancing the well-being of our residents and community. Your generous donations will support essential programs, self training, and activities, creating a more vibrant and compassionate environment at our Long-Term Care Home and Independent Living Village.
HOW TO DONTATE:
Visit parkviewhome.ca or scan the QR code to donate online Call our donation line at 905-640-1911 ext. 1123 for credit card donations. Mail a cheque to our office address: 123 Weldon Road Stouffville, ON L4A OG8
With gratitude, The Residents, Tenants, Resident and Family Council, and Staff at Parkview
Education Bursary P arkview is proud to support lifelong learning by offering 60 Staff Education Bursaries of $500 each! These bursaries, funded through Parkview Resources and the expanded Ratcliff Award Program, support professional development for our dedicated staff. Eligibility & Application To qualify, applicants must: ✔ Be a Parkview employee (completed probation by May 1, 2025). ✔ Provide proof of enrollment and payment for a course between Jan. 1 – Nov. 3, 2025. ✔ Submit a 150–200 word personal statement on how the course benefits their role. ✔ Attend the Staff Service Awards Ceremony on May 28, 2025. 📅 Application Deadline: May 1, 2025
Submit applications to celebrate60@parkviewhome.ca
We look forward to celebrating your growth!
12
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12Made with FlippingBook - Share PDF online