On April 16, Evergreen Woods, a premier senior living community in North Branford, was presented with their 5th Nationally recognized Argentum Best of the Best Award for Family and Resident Engagement through their "J.O.Y" (Joining Older and Younger) Program. Argentum is a nationally recognized advocate for the senior living industry promoting choice, independence, dignity, and quality of life for older adults. "We're honored to be presented with this award. The J.O.Y program is a unique way for our community to engage with the local area and focus on intergenerational communication. Working together, we can create amazing results." said Executive Director, Quasnitschka.

The J.O.Y Initiative was conceptualized in November 2017 by Evergreen Wood's leadership team, wherein they would connect with local organizations, to create long-term partnerships through social and wellness events. The age of participating organizations ranged from pre-school children to college-aged students.

"These programs were not meant to be a single event, but a continuous collaboration," said Quasnitschka. "This allows our residents and the younger generations to continually connect through their life experiences, in turn creating a lasting impact on all participants and bridging the generational gap."

Measuring the impact of this program is what set Evergreen Woods apart from other nominees. Participants of the J.O.Y. program have experienced a positive impact from these intergenerational events. This program has opened the door to increased participation from both parties, created the opportunity to bond over an activity, while connecting different generations outside of their close family and friends. "We have seen community members participate in programs that they were originally hesitant to engage in. The success of the J.O.Y. program has prompted us to research new organizations of interest to support the mission of the program" said Quasnitschka.

This isn't the first time the community has been awarded for their exceptional staff and Member programs; this is their 5th Argentum Best of the Best Award. In 2010, they were honored for their Alzheimer's and dementia program WAVES, an aquatic therapy program. While in 2011 and 2012 the community was awarded for Resident Health and Wellness for their CLIMB lower body strength and Purpose Based Wellness programs. In 2017, their community outreach in their Explore program earned them the Best of the Best Workforce Development Award.

About Evergreen Woods: Evergreen Woods is located in North Branford, CT and is an all-inclusive, luxury retirement community. The community's care-free lifestyle helps members live longer, healthier and happier lives by offering an array of amenities including maintenance-free living, daily fine dining, weekly housekeeping, a personalized wellness program, and on-site services. Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing, and Rehab rooms are also available for those who may need to make a transition from Independent Living. More information about Evergreen Woods at https://evergreen-woods.com/