Early September is always a fun time for Gloria Dei. The changing of the seasons means a changing of scenery for our residents. Slowly but surely the summer decorations transform to fall decor. A much needed change, we believe! However, despite the seasonal changes, one thing always remains the same in September…Tools for Schools!

That’s right, our residents’ CARES Committee, an outreach of Gloria Dei Communities where senior residents and staff come together to undertake several programs each year, held our annual school supply drive. Our residents donated all sorts of goodies to students who could really use some fun things for the playground, as well as some functional and much needed items in the classroom like pens, pencils, and notebooks.

This year we went to Prince Hall, a pre-k through 5th grade elementary school. The principal, Donna Ragsdale, gave us a great tour through their school and let us hand out some of the fun items to the kids. Check out our photo gallery below!

Prince Hall Elementary School

As we said above, Tools for Schools will always remain an important staple of our Septembers here at Gloria Dei. However, for our 2019 edition, we did do something a little different. Normally we choose two schools and hand out some supplies to the students. This year, for our second stop, we made a trip to the Intercommunity Action Activity Center.

The Activity Center is a day program that provides both in-facility and community-based opportunities that offer persons with disabilities the chance to improve their quality of life and gain greater independence. Run by Denise Haynes and Cheryl McGarry, these two women do incredible work! Never have we seen so many bright and smiling faces. It was such a pleasure to be a part of. You can see photos from the second part of our trip below!

Intercommunity Action Activity Center

When All Was Said And Done

All in all, over 50 boxes of supplies were donated! This support comes from The Manor and Manor Court, The Farms, The Estates, The Towers, The Plaza, and Personal Care at The Park. Everybody helps out at Gloria Dei! We truly love this special caring event, and we love how much our residents want to give back. It’s what makes Gloria Dei such a kind and warm community. We’re already looking forward to next year!