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Residents of Park Place Care Center look forward their monthly manicures. The Loving Hands Outreach Program
was created seven years ago by two Sun City residents.

Armed with scissors, emery boards, residents. Katrina Weems has been the such as reindeer head bands are handed
nail buffers, towels and an assortment activities director for the past two years. out, which the residents love. Again,
of shiny nail lacquer, these dedicated She stated that the residents really look Neighborhood 31 pitches in by donating
and caring women sit before residents forward to the first Friday of the month items for the gift bags.
who have eagerly looked forward to this in anticipation of seeing their friends Through this seemingly simple act of
monthly activity days before the women from the “outside world.” The interaction giving free manicures and the genuine
are scheduled to arrive. The women show between the residents and the Outreach interest shown in the lives of the Park
up around 9:50 a.m., and the lifeless ladies has had a positive effect. Some of Place residents, members of the Loving
room begins to transform into a bustling the residents who would speak very little Hands Outreach Program provide a
active space filled with a loving energy. or not at all began to open up. Their overall service that not only creates lovely
A beautifully coordinated dance of sorts emotional attitude improved which has fingernail masterpieces but touches the
takes place as each member gathers carried over into their physical well-being. very heart and soul of the folks they serve.
implements and supplies to set up her As one resident said, “These women are
work station. All the members of this Outreach Program angels doing God’s work.” Indeed, they
seem to feel they receive more from the are - one nail at a time.
By 10 a.m. they are ready to meet and residents than they give. Eileen Woods
greet the residents, many of whom have explained, “Everyone at Park Place makes S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 6 SUNRAYS | 77
become more like dear friends than us feel very welcome. We truly enjoy what
customers. Work stations fill up quickly. we do. It is very rewarding.”
Residents, many in wheelchairs or using But this wonderful activity doesn’t stop
walkers, patiently line up and wait their there. Each December, after the manicures,
turn. Everyone who wants a manicure the Loving Hands members put on a party
receives one, no matter how long it takes. for all those who just had their nails done.
While most of the 20-plus residents who Sugar-free cookies, candies and treats are
show up are women, an average of five offered along with gift bags stuffed with
men regularly enjoy the attention as well. warm, fuzzy socks, body lotions and bath
soaps. For fun, holiday paraphernalia
Park Place Care Center currently has 83

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