The Glades at ChampionsGate Celebrates Love in All Forms

Earlier this month, senior living community The Glades at ChampionsGate unveiled “The Love Project,” a heartwarming initiative celebrating love in all its forms – from romantic partnerships to cherished friendships and self-love. The project aims to broaden the traditional focus on romantic love, recognizing that for many seniors, Valentine’s Day can be a bittersweet occasion.

“In planning our Valentine’s Day celebrations, we had many residents share that they didn’t intend to celebrate because it was no longer a holiday for them,” said Amie Morales, community life director at The Glades at ChampionsGate. “Rather than let them sit on the sidelines, we found a way to make this a happy occasion where all love is celebrated.”

Leading up to Valentine’s Day, Morales met with residents and collected their stories of love. Like Ginny and Marcy – two widows who met at the community during a social distancing dinner in the midst of the pandemic. The duo had an instant connection and have been inseparable ever since. Ginny appreciates Marcy’s warmth and the way she makes everyone feel special, while Marcy values Ginny’s thoughtful advice and listening ear.

“We just have the greatest time together,” said Marcy. “We think so much alike, it’s crazy. It’s like we should have been sisters or something. Her friendship has been such a blessing to me, and mine to her.”

Years after that fateful dinner, Ginny and Marcy have shared countless meals together, holidays with family and joy-filled outings.

“Through all the years, changes, and challenges, it's the pursuit and enjoyment of fun that continues to unite them and keep their friendship strong,” said Morales. “It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best relationships come when we least expect them.”

The Love Project also features Cheryl’s journey to self-love. At 25, Cheryl said she measured her worth by the approval of others, often sacrificing her own needs in the process. But as life went on, she realized that the key to healing was loving herself. Today, she is a woman who knows her worth and fights for herself and others.

“I’ve felt tremendous love at The Glades, a place that has welcomed me with open arms,” said Cheryl. “The kindness and support from my neighbors has shown me how much I matter, while my friends have accepted me for who I am not what I can give them.”

In gathering stories for The Love Project, Morales shared that it is the love of her job that she chooses to celebrate.

“When I’m not with residents, I miss them,” she added. “They bring me so much joy and doing things like The Love Project where we can highlight their stories makes my work so fulfilling.”

The Love Project was unveiled to residents on February 12. It will remain on display at the community until February 28.

About The Glades at ChampionsGate

Located in ChampionsGate, Fla., The Glades at Champions Gate is a 223-apartment independent, assisted living and memory care community located at 8400 Champions Gate Blvd. Amenities include a fitness center, movie theater, swimming pool, and four unique dining venues, as well as award-winning programming through Watermark University. Managed by Watermark Retirement Communities, The Glades at ChampionsGate is committed to creating an extraordinary and innovative community where people thrive. For more information, visit https://championsgate.watermarkcommunities.com.

About Watermark Retirement Communities®

Watermark creates extraordinary and innovative communities where people thrive. We believe aging is about renewal rather than retirement. Watermark communities are known for highly trained and caring associates, a lifestyle built on choice, fine amenities, integrative wellness and innovative programs including the award-winning Watermark University featuring a wide variety of engaging classes for residents and area seniors. Watermark has been named in the top 25 Best Workplaces for Aging Services™ in a national program conducted by the Great Place to Work® Institute and published on Fortune.com. Based in Tucson AZ, Watermark is a privately held company with a reputation for more than 30 years for service, innovation, integrity and financial stability, and manages senior living communities across the United States. Visit watermarkcommunities.com to learn more.