All aboard! Well-Spring recently set sail on its second annual “Cruising Around the World” event, and residents were more than ready to hop on deck. With team members representing cultures from five continents, this much-anticipated celebration was the perfect way to showcase the diversity of our community while giving residents a chance to try something new and delicious.
Team members shared cherished recipes from their home countries, and the Dining team went all out, preparing enough food to serve more than 600 people. Five food stations transformed the dining room into a global adventure, with flavors from Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America and the United States. Team member volunteers served each dish with a smile, and to keep the cruise theme afloat, some team members dressed as cruise staff while others wore traditional clothing from their home countries.
Residents were greeted with flower leis and received “passports” they could stamp at each station for a chance to win gift cards to local ethnic restaurants. The goal? To inspire everyone to “keep cruising” and continue exploring new cuisines even after the event.
Behind the scenes, the Cultural Connections group worked hand-in-hand with the Dining team to bring the event to life. This group of residents and team members is dedicated to weaving culture into the fabric of Well-Spring through food and activities that celebrate curiosity and inclusivity.
“It was wonderful to see everyone come together, learn from one another, and step outside their comfort zones to try something new,” said Joy Greer, Chair of the Cultural Connections Committee.
Todd Dumke, Director of Dining Services, summed it up best: “Dining is about more than just feeding people, dining should be an experience.” That commitment showed in every detail. Assisted Living and Healthcare residents also joined the fun, enjoying the same dishes in their own dining rooms so they didn’t have to travel far. To top it off, the dining team even prepared plates for third-shift workers, making sure everyone got a taste of the journey.
This year’s cruise was bigger than ever, with an even stronger turnout from residents and team members. Todd added, “Food can be a universal language,” and it was clear that language was spoken fluently at Well-Spring. With a Dining team as diverse as its menu – from Latin backgrounds to Eastern European, African and Asian roots – it is no wonder the event was such a success.
At Well-Spring, retirement is anything but ordinary. Events like “Cruising Around the World” encourage residents to stay adventurous, team members to share their heritage, and the whole community to come together in celebration. And if you missed the boat this year, don’t worry – the cruise will be back, and the flavors will be ready to sail again.
By Jessica Ford
Kintura Content Specialist