Events and Adventures Create Connections
Residents gather in the art studio on a recent Saturday at Bruceville Point
On a recent Saturday, I joined the writer’s workshop led by Monica, the Events and Adventures Assistant at Bruceville Point. Each week she offers a prompt—something like “What does independence mean to you?” near the Fourth of July. The day I joined, we reflected on routines and habits.
We wrote in near silence, pens scratching across paper like I was back in a high school English class. After 20 minutes, Monica invited us to share. Around the table, people described how their routines had changed: card games replacing housework, dinners with friends instead of yardwork. One woman, once fond of her speedy commute, now channels her energy into arranging flowers, writing, and connecting with friends.
Around the table, residents were busy reflecting and writing at the Writer’s Workshop.
As we traded stories, I felt a bond forming. Later that day in the bistro or passing in the hall, those same faces greeted me with knowing smiles. Such simple exchanges made us feel seen, recognized, and connected.
Monica then invited us to stay for a watercolor class. Lined paper and pencils gave way to paints and brushes. Some brought pieces they’d started; others picked up a brush for the first time. Beside me, Lou sketched an incredible leopard while I splashed bright summer colors. Our work looked worlds apart, but the joy was in creating something side by side.
Monica and Jaime, who lead the Events and Adventures program at Bruceville Point, keep the calendar full: card games, Wii bowling, fitness classes, happy hours, movie nights, museum trips—even Tahoe excursions. Monica explained why that variety matters.
“A resident who rarely left her apartment joined us for a class one day,” she said. What followed was a little like Alice tumbling into the rabbit hole. “Afterward, she came to another event. Soon, she was joining friends for dinner.”
One invitation led to another, until she felt a sense of belonging. That’s the power of an ask—whether to a class, dinner, or even tea.
So extend an invitation. Or consider this one: join the next Word in a Word puzzle or game time social. You never know what connection you’ll spark—or how much your presence might mean.
Learn more about our extensive Events and Adventures program and how it connects our community in our Signature Programs Guide.
