Throughout the year, the Resident Services team executes numerous
programs, presentations, and engagement activities at Enterprise communities. Park View at Ellicott City II resident Barbara Jones happily assists with planning and executing events to support and uplift her fellow neighbors.
Since moving into the community in September 2021, a year before the building’s renovation, Jones has consistently gone above and beyond to support her neighbors. It has truly been a pleasure to have her as a resident volunteer, as she has been praised by Resident Services Manager Kellie Thomas.
“As a resident volunteer, Mrs. Barbara takes it upon herself to wipe down and disinfect the tables in the community room each morning before activities begin,” said Thomas. “She also oversees the bimonthly coffee hour, often donating items from her own kitchen to accommodate an overflow of residents.”
A key focus area for Resident Services is ensuring residents are food secured or addressing food insecurity across the portfolio. Jones pursues programs and opportunities that directly align with initiative. She has coordinated with her church, Mount Gregory Methodist, to provide fresh produce to the residents of Park View at Ellicott City I and II every second Monday of the month. Jones also ensures that goods from the church’s food bank are always easily accessible for her neighbors, as she brings additional food to the community to share.
Acts of volunteerism establish powerful connections amongst neighbors, thus strengthening long-lasting bonds. Beyond food assistance, Jones fosters a strong sense of community and care. Residents consistently rave about the monthly potluck dinners she organizes. If a resident is unwell or hospitalized, she promptly informs the community’s site associates and ensures they receive a card or small gift to lift their spirits.
Jones' volunteer efforts do not stop there. Currently, she is taking the Chromebook classes offered at Ellicott City II a second time so she can assist less tech-savvy residents. Deciding to acquire new technological skills is no small feat and for Jones to enroll in the classes a second time displays her desire to encourage her neighbors to learn the basics and a variety of computer programs.
“If you were to look up the definition of an exemplary resident volunteer, you would surely find Mrs. Barbara’s picture,” expressed Thomas. “We are incredibly grateful for her kindness, dedication, and unwavering commitment to our community.”
We would like to extend a special thank you to Jones for her gracious heart and the time spent improving the lives of the residents at her community. Her thoughtful spirit is truly admirable, as she encourages all residents to actively participate in volunteer initiatives and to always feel empowered to lend fellow neighbors a helping hand.