Good Samaritan – Prescott Village in Arizona recently hosted an unusual prayer service. Donors and residents gathered to pray over a piece of exercise equipment.
Why? Because well-being is that important to the Good Samaritan.
The machine is a NuStep, a recumbent cross trainer that is especially suited to seniors. Good Samaritan – Prescott Village bought it with funds from their well-being campaign.
When we use the term well-being at the Society, we mean so much more than physical wellness. We want to support the whole person, body, mind and spirit, and our donors do too.” – Gretchen Gallagher, donor engagement director at Good Samaritan – Prescott Village.
The idea of inviting donors to the blessing service seemed like a natural move. Gretchen Gallagher, donor engagement director, explains that the Society works with six dimensions of well-being: spirituality, a sense of purpose, social connections, financial stability, physical health and community engagement. And it includes donor well-being.
Jessica Clark, a physical therapist, shows residents how to use the NuStep. “This machine is good for people of any fitness level,” she explains. “It works the upper and lower body without joint stress. As residents build strength, they are less likely to fall. Plus, it’s just plain fun,” she says.
No matter how effective the workout, most people only keep at it when they are having a good time. The team at Prescott Village makes sure the setting is right for that to happen.
“That’s why this new NuStep is in the independent living apartment building right in the pathway to the activities area,” says Vivian Elliott, senior living manager. “Residents can stop to use the machine on the way to or from bingo or some other activity. They can greet and encourage the person on the NuStep if they are passing by."
Residents are finding the NuStep easy to use. I have even seen them giving each other tips and instruction." – Vivian Elliott, senior living manager at Good Samaritan – Prescott Village.
This story showcases one of the ways the Good Samaritan shares God’s love, powered by gifts from people like you.