Second Wind Dreams
By Joanne Heney
Union Villa, part of the Unionville Home Society’s 19 acre seniors complex in Unionville, understands that dreams are not just for the young-in-years. With that in mind, they’ve initiated an exciting new program called “Second Wind Dreams”, to grant wishes to seniors.
Founded in the United States in 1997 by Paula Kay (P.K.) Beville, the focus of “Second Wind Dreams” is making dreams come true and enhancing the quality of life for the elderly, while boosting the public perception of seniors and the aging process. “I wanted to make sure I honoured the elderly in a positive way,” says Beville, “with a program that was so positive and upbeat that everybody felt good about it.”
A geriatrics specialist for over 20 years, she found that while performing psychological evaluations on residents in long term care facilities, they often spoke longingly about a variety of desires. Some were as simple as buying a new dress, taking dance lessons or cooking a favourite recipe, while others were more adventurous, like riding an elephant, flying in a blimp or playing in a PGA Seniors’ Golf Tournament.
Along with granting dreams, there are also many positive ripple effects that take place. Follow-up studies indicate that the “Second Wind Dreams” program lowers depression in the elderly, elevates staff morale and decreases staff turnover. Plus, the experience provides memorable, life-changing volunteer opportunities for everyone involved.
“Second Wind Dreams” is a movement to bring seniors back to the forefront of society and make them feel special. It has now grown to include more than 450 eldercare facilities in 40 States, Canada and India, with at least three dreams coming true every day.
The driving force behind Union Villa’s “Second Wind Dreams” project is Mary-Ruth Flood, Unionville Home Society’s Director of Community Development. After doing some research into the program, Mary-Ruth wanted “Second Wind Dreams” here in Markham. “It is such a warm program, it really reflects the environment at Union Villa and provides the human touch for both the resident and their families and, at the same time, reaches out to organizations in the community as they help bring the dream to reality,” she comments.
Union Villa and the “Second Wind Dreams” team including Barbara Taverner and Tina Murphy, active volunteers and team leaders, recognize the beauty of the circle of life and the power of believing in a dream. The first dream will be granted to a Union Villa resident this December.
Those interested in helping to support “Second Wind Dreams”, can contact Mary-Ruth Flood at 905.477.2839, Ext. 4270.
2600 John Street, Unit 207, Markham, ON L3R 3W3 T: 905.475.5222 F: 905.475.6369
