Serendipity Adult Day Services Success Stories

SERENDIPITY from The Salvation Army Alaska on Vimeo.

 

Testimonials

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March 1, 2024

I am delighted to offer my appreciation and admiration for Renee Riggs-Kaiser and the Serendipity Adult Day Care Program.

I am a friend and care-partner for a dear young woman who was diagnosed with Young Onset Alzheimer's at age 49. This was a devastating time for my friend and her husband and two children, 11 and 14 at the time. Dara had been a social worker for years, working to make life better for others, and especially in her work for children in foster care. No longer able to work or drive, she became very depressed and adrift, losing her purpose in life.

At our first meeting with Renee, Dara was NOT happy to be there, but Renee immediately focused on Dara's expertise as a social worker explaining how much they could use her help. They also bonded over Dara's enjoyment at working in the gardens. Dara agreed to try it and from the first day, Renee focused on what Dara COULD do and not on what she could no longer do. Dara could talk with fellow clients, help keep them occupied, and was excited to go every day. She was getting some activity and not sitting home alone all day every day.

In September, circumstances caused Dara to stop attending Serendipity, but in January, when we reconnected, Renee again welcomed Dara back into the fold. And Dara is once again delighted to go there every day.

Not only has this been wonderful for Dara, giving her a purpose again, but this has also been such a gift for her family, when she was living at home, and now for the friend who has taken her in on a 24/7 basis. This respite is worth more than you could imagine.

I have been abl3e to spend time at Serendipity multiple days over the last seven months. I have always seen happy, well-cared-for clients doing fun and educational or physical activities, gauged to their abilities. I am regularly impressed with the variety and innovation they employ to keep everyone involved, active — and happy! The friendly and caring staff are a real asset for the community of Anchorage, especially for those who need this care, and for those of us who support them. I cannot overstate the help this program offers.

One more thing — the sliding-scale cost is also an amazing plus for these families. While paying more for this service is not necessarily impossible for folks, being able to save money and use those funds for any of the many other extra costs involved in caring for our loved ones is yet another gift.

Thank you for making this amazing program available to our community at an affordable cost. I hope you are able to continue.

Sallye Werner

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To whom it may concern,

I am writing to show my continued support for Salvation Army / Serendipity Adult Day Services. Serendipity is a wonderful program operated by staff who genuinely care about the individuals they serve on a day to day basis. I work as a care coordinator with clients in the Anchorage area and have visited with clients on numerous occasions at Serendipity, allowing me to view their services and their interactions with clients. Over the years I have observed staff go above and beyond for the clients they serve, they have always been a reliable point of contact for me and are very knowledgeable about what is going on with the individuals they serve. When they have concerns regarding our mutual clients, they share them with me so we can better serve the individuals. I have referred clients to Serendipity over the years because I know they will receive quality care.

Sincerely,

Nikita Linn

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February 9, 2023

This letter is provided to outline my appreciation regarding Serendipity Adult Day Services (Serendipity) and the quality care it provides to those fortunate enough to be a part of this vital program. 

My sister-in-law, Robin Swain, is a client of Serendipity. I was able to volunteer with Serendipity this past summer, assisting with the Alaska State Fair trip. I was humbled many times during and after this trip. 

I'm a retired U.S. Marine, and I can tell you, I have seen and experienced many things in my life. The genuineness of the staff of Serendipity and the joy of those they serve is evident. 

This program is vital to those it serves, thanks to all involved with this organization for the continued efforts to serve.

Thanks again,

Sincerely,

Rob Ayala

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 February 9, 2023

This letter is intended to express appreciation and support for the quality services provided by the Serendipity Adult Day Services.

Serendipity is a place where guardians and caretakers can rest easy, knowing loved ones and wards entrusted to its care are safe, enriched, shown compassion, and love.

Serendipity provides a phenomenal variety of stimulating activities such as bingo, chair exercise, music, meals, prayer time, and companionship for those participating at the facility. 

The staff are truly a special type of people, willing to give so much to those needing specialized care.

My sister, who is now 65, has grown more confident, and after years of being told she could not learn, Robin has, through bingo, learned how to identify specific numbers and gained the critical thinking skill needed to identify those numbers on the bingo board. Staff have absolutely been the reason Robin has succeeded. They encourage and praise and support all of Robin's efforts.

Robin enjoys the presentations from the Alaska Zoo, the annual field trip to the Alaska State Fair, and the special groups brought in throughout the year to provide music, storytelling, and much more. 

My family and I have been humbled and blessed to assist as volunteers with the annual Alaska State Fair trip. We attend the annual family picnic and see in person the great connection staff have with the clients at Serendipity.

Thanks to all of you, for all that you continue to selflessly do for those in your charge.

Sincerely,

Vickie L. Swain

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September 22, 2024

Dear Ms. Holst,

I am writing this letter of support on behalf of the Serendipity Adult Day Care program hosted by the Salvation Army in Anchorage, Alaska. My brother, of whom I am legal guardian, has been receiving services at Serendipity, several times per week, for approximately the last year.

I cannot express how grateful I am for this facility and the opportunities that are available to my brother Robert to participate in his community, socialize, exercise, learn, and recreate. 

Robert has a traumatic brain injury and requires 24 hour supervision because of his memory loss and decision making. Prior to attending Serendipity, Robert's socialization and community involvement was limited to 12 hours per week which he spent with various day hab providers. This time was very isolating and non productive for Robert due to a lack of activity options. He often spent these 12 hours walking the mall or going for coffee. Robert's weight ballooned by about 45 pounds and his overall health deteriorated because of lack of activity and stimulation. But at Serendipity, Robert is part of a community. The facility coordinator often sends me emails with photos of Robert participating in kick ball, exercise activities, and attending the Alaska State Fair, surrounded by peers who have similar abilities. 

Prior to attending Serendipity, Robert and I looked at several other adult day care facilities in the area, but none of them offered the diverse activities and level of involvement as Serendipity. I love that my brother can participate in social games, exercise, prayer, meals, and community outings, all while being genuinely cared for and looked after by a terrific staff that has taken the time to truly get to know my brother's needs and personality. 

Additionally, it was very challenging to find programs that could accommodate Robert due to lack of availability or his needs. I was surprised to find so few options in the Anchorage area.

The services and level of care provided by Serendipity's staff is excellent. I have peace of mind knowing that my brother is actively participating in his community and in the care of kind staff. Robert looks forward to attending Serendipity each week, and I know that it is a highlight of his activities.

Sincerely,

Susan Ciucci Brunner

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February 19, 2024

A little background on our use of Serendipity. Gary, my husband, has Anoxic Dementia as a result of a cardiac arrest and not being revived soon enough. This happened over 20 years ago; at which time I found out about Serendipity. Gary only went there for a few days while I was getting us settled in our new downsized home. Since my son lived with us there was no need for him to go there at that time on a regular basis. He was actually able to stay home alone for short periods and could answer the phone.

We moved out of Alaska for a while and found nothing like Serendipity elsewhere. We just returned this August to Anchorage and I was so glad Serendipity was still available for him to go there. None of our children live in Alaska anymore; thus the need for Serendipity. Gary's condition had worsened also and he needs more attention and care that Serendipity provides.

It is not just a drop off place to keep him safe when I can't be there at home for him. I could keep him home but he would not get the stimulation that he gets at Serendipity. They provide daily activities and companionship for him. His speech has improved by having people to talk to and interactive activities. He has actually read the numbers for Bingo. Renee recently sent me a film of Gary doing exercises. So you see they nudge him to participate and do things he doesn't think he can or wants to do. He finds things he can do and enjoy. He tires easily and likes to nap, so they provide for him a quiet spot to read and fall asleep. Gary is no longer able to control his daily bathroom habits. The staff are wonderful in giving him the assistance and clean up (if needed) in a timely manner. This summer we all went to the State Fair together for a wonderful day out. I constantly tell people about Serendipity and recommend it to them if they know of someone that could benefit from going there.

Sincerely yours,

Carolyn Bledsoe

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To Whom It May Concern:

I knew Serendipity was the best place for my sister, Chris, the first day we walked in for an interview in 2016.

There were activities in play, staff were fully engaged with the clients, and the overall atmosphere was warm and welcoming. In fact, whenever I visit, I tend to linger because it is such a happy and peaceful place.

Chris was born mentally disabled and has attended a variety of day programs her entire life. Due to her age and her unique capabilities and inabilities, it can be difficult to find just the right place for her. Serendipity offers many different types of activities, so she gets a chance to exercise her brain as well as her body every day.

She has been able to make friends with other seniors like her, as well as folks who were not born with a disability, which is very important to her. She wants to feel normal and be treated like an adult. On the other hand, her emotional development is close to that of a 5-year-old. While she has always been pleasant and outgoing, sometimes she has a hard time waiting for her turn or not going overboard with questions and other irksome behaviors. Serendipity provides a high expectation of social behavior, so staff and other clients model behaviors expected of an adult, rather than a child. The games and many other types of activities that Serendipity offers are crucial support for her to maintain her ability to navigate in society freely and independently.

Staff at Serendipity get that dignity entails having choices, respect entails the expectation of achievement, and that a mental disability does not preclude the need to leave a mark on the world.

More personally, I am grateful for the happiness and confidence that has grown in her since Chris started attending Serendipity. She comes home at the end of each day with stories to tell, or projects to show me or just happy to hang out with the friends she's made. I myself can focus on my job without worrying if she's getting the support she needs.

Chris lived most of her adult life with a different family, and they were not, shall I say, open-minded. Fortunately, she is naturally accepting and friendly with everyone, but when she first came to live with me permanently in 2016, I was a bit appalled when I realized how isolated she'd been kept. Serendipity has given her the opportunity to socialize naturally with people from many different backgrounds, and she's completely stopped asking questions or pointing out differences that at one time she had not understood.

Chris has made lots of friends and lasting relationships at Serendipity that she's not been able to do elsewhere. She feels more integrated with people without disabilities than any other program she's attended. I am so grateful for Serendipity and its staff that I am inspired to donate what I can myself because I want them always to be here.

Sincerely,

Dana Kostreba

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February 9, 2023

To Whom it May Concern:

I am writing in regard to Serendipity Adult Day Services. I have been a Care Coordinator for Alaskans on the Home and Community Based Medicaid Waiver for over 20 years and have had numerous clients attend the day program at Serendipity over the years. They offer and provide a valuable service for individuals with a variety of disabilities.

The staff at Serendipity are well trained and always act in a professional manner. They have an assortment of activities on a daily basis which allow their participants opportunities for socialization and peer interaction. The setting is warm and inviting, and participants enjoy the time they spend at the center. The service is also a relief for families who are in need of activities for their loved ones provided in a safe environment.

Serendipity is a wonderful program and is truly valuable to the community in Anchorage. I highly recommend them to families and individuals, and continue to support their efforts to make the community for people with disabilities a safe and fun place to live. 

Sincerely,

Megan S. Wilts, MS, LPC

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February 27, 2024

Dear Ms. Holt,

As a missionary with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, I have been serving at Serendipity Adult Day Services since May 2023. I have been able to interact with clients and staff on a regular basis. My time spent at Serendipity has been a rewarding and educational experience.

Renee Riggs-Kaiser's care and management of the facility has impressed me. She strives to individualize activities to meet the skill level and interests of the clients; as well as plan for group activities that involve all parties. I have been allowed, with her approval, to introduce new activities. Many times, visitors from the community are invited to share their skills with the clients. Holidays and birthdays are always special occasions at the center with special meal preparation and celebration. A particular strength of the center is the care and dignity that each client receives from the staff. The atmosphere among the clients is one of camaraderie and friendship.

I have come to realize the asset this facility offers the people of the community. The time at the center is the only opportunity, in many cases, for clients to socialize and interact with others. Planned field trips allow the clients to take part in activities and feel a part of the community.

An important aspect we must also remember is the opportunity it affords caregivers to continue with employment and receive necessary respite. The facility not only promotes positive mental and physical health for the clients but contributes to the well-being and support of the clients' families. I strongly support The Salvation Army in continued funding for this and other similar facilities. I can see the benefit it gives to all by creating a healthy happy Alaska for all people.

Sincerely,

Vicki Pruett

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February 8, 2017

To Whom It May Concern;

 

I am writing this letter in support of continued funding for Serendipity Adult Day Services. Serendipity has played a very important role for my family. My mother, Shirley, was diagnosed with Frontal/Temporal Dementia in January 2014 after living in my household for the prior 2 years. As her disease progressed, she was no longer safe to leave alone in our home while my husband and I were at work and our daughter was at school. Thankfully, we were made aware of Serendipity through a family friend.

 

Shirley began attending Serendipity in March 2015. She was able to utilize the self-pay sliding scale so that her minimal income from Medicare covered the services. We would not have been able to afford the program otherwise. This program allowed us to keep Shirley in our home until February 2016. Sadly, at that time her diseased had progressed to the point that her behavior was so disruptive to our family life that she was placed in an Assisted Living Facility.

 

Since then, Shirley has continued to attend Serendipity on a daily basis. It continues to provide her with a pleasant environment with smiling, friendly faces; a consistent schedule; and staff with great knowledge and respect. Attending Serendipity has been a godsend for my mother, it has allowed us to keep her in a home environment much longer than if it was not available.

 

Furthermore, I would like to express my gratitude to the Serendipity program and staff for the support and caring that they have provided me and my other family members during my mother's long illness. It has been an amazing, yet sad journey. But, one made infinitely easier and better because of Serendipity Adult Day Services.

 

I am hopeful that funding for Serendipity can continue, so the positive impact it has had on my family, can be experienced by others.

With great gratitude to the Serendipity Program,

Shawna Hill Wilson

Anchorage, AK

 

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November 17, 2015

I would like to write this testimonial about Serendipity Adult Day Care.

In May, 2011 my mother, Edith A Thomas was diagnosed with dementia. She was not able to stay at home by herself while I worked. I started looking for an adult daycare and found one however after 2 years my mother began to be very active. When I was told to give her medication to calm her down, I decided to seek for another daycare facility.

In March, 2013 I contacted Cathy Brenner with Serendipity and my mother was accepted into Serendipity. She began to attend Serendipity within a week or so. It was a God-send. She not only was able to be active and walk around whenever she wanted to but the daycare provided a staff member to walk with her. In addition, the staff helped her to eat by feeding her and made sure all of her needs were met. Serendipity was only 10 minutes from my work and 5 minutes from home. The daycare opened from 7:30am until 5:30 pm which helped tremendously because the other facility closed at 3:30pm every Friday when my mother attended which meant I had to leave work every Friday 2 hours early.

As I stated before Serendipity was a God-send. The staff members were so loving and showed genuine concern for all the people who attended as well as my mother. When my mother became ill and could no longer return to Serendipity, Cathy Brenner stayed in contact with me either by phone and even sent a "missing you" card to my mother which all the staff and attendees signed. I still have that card to this day.

Unfortunately, on June 12, 2015 my mother passed away and Serendipity was right there to support me and my family doing our time of sorrow. Serendipity even held a memorial for the family the week after her funeral and burial. It has meant so much to me to have Serendipity in our lives and I just want everyone to know what a wonderful and supportive facility Serendipity was and is.

Cathy Brenner and all her staff are well trained and show so much love and compassion to everyone who attends. I highly recommend Serendipity to anyone who has a loved one that needs a place to stay during the day. Keep up the wonderful work and support Serendipity. We love you for all you do.

[Anchorage, AK Client Family]