February 2, 2024
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a federal holiday in the United States, observed on the third Monday of January to honor the civil rights leader. This American civil rights activist played a key role in advocating for racial equality and justice through nonviolent means. Therefore, people remember Dr. King’s contributions on this day and frequently engage in community service to honor his legacy.
Studies have demonstrated that volunteerism offers numerous benefits, such as:
Moreover, it has a proven track record of reducing stress, alleviating anxiety, combating isolation, and alleviating depression.
At Rock Creek Senior Living, many of our residents have spent time volunteering or serving others. To help older adults continue to participate in all that is important to them and to do our part in continuing Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, our community participates in Arrow Senior Living’s Acts of Service initiatives throughout the year. In January, we plan to focus on one specific community service project every month. Our aging adults take pride in these efforts because the work is meaningful and creates lasting relationships with those in their long-term communities.
Our residents loved being able to give back to their communities and the programs they supported throughout their lives. Many disclosed feeling a lack of “purpose” in their lives, and having an act of service every month gave them something to look forward to and made them feel there was a reason they were still around.
In past years, we’ve partnered with local food banks, animal shelters, hospitals, and more. As we head into the new year, we’re excited for the opportunity to continue partnering with our local community to serve others purposefully. We plan to partner with a local animal shelter to donate goodies for animals and possibly hold an adoption event in the community. We also partnered with a local church to create “blessing bags” for those in need.
Follow along on our journey by visiting our social media page at this link. If you’re interested in working with Rock Creek Senior Living on our Acts of Service Projects, contact our Resident Services Director to learn more!
Rock Creek Senior Living in Ankeny, IA offers senior villas, independent senior apartments, assisted living, and memory care with a variety of services and a range of floor plan options. Amenities include restaurant dining, 24-hour bistro, concierge service, housekeeping, events and entertainment, personal care, transportation services, and more. Centrally located near Mercy One Medical Center with convenient access to major shopping centers and attractions, including Briarwood Golf, The District Shopping Center, Saylorville Lake Marina, Big Creek State Park, and Ankeny Community Theater.