The SunnyDay Star Shines Far and Wide
When I visited another health center, I was introduced to the director of its activities department—perhaps the title was department head. I thought, “Isn’t that position similar to Ms. Mandy’s role at SunnyDay?” At SunnyDay, however, Mandy is called the Coordinator—a person who coordinates and connects people. She personally organizes SunnyDay’s many activities. Her responsibilities are considerable and her work keeps her very busy, yet SunnyDay does not call her a department head or director; she is simply the Coordinator. Titles such as department head or director can suggest someone standing above everyone else, with older adults merely participating passively under that person’s direction. Coordinator is a much better title! It shows that older adults are the central participants at SunnyDay, while staff members take the initiative to assist, coordinate and support the many activities that the older adults themselves undertake. Ah, this is the guiding principle and spirit behind everything SunnyDay does. When older adults are treated as the primary participants and placed at the center, everything can be done well—isn’t that true?
Whenever we become tired from rehearsing or performing, the center director congratulates and encourages us, but always earnestly reminds us again and again: “Do not become overtired. Your health is the most important thing. Every activity is intended to protect and improve the health of our older adults. Only when you remain healthy can you continue presenting wonderful programs in the future. If performing might harm your health, it is better to perform less—or not perform at all.” Ah, health comes first! This is another great part of the SunnyDay spirit.
“Older adults first; health first.” The SunnyDay spirit I have experienced moves me and fills me with gratitude. SunnyDay will always live in my heart.
SunnyDay is now five years old. We warmly celebrate your birthday and wish you continued success! Like the evening star, the SunnyDay spirit shines far and wide!