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“We are a great family; we know their needs, we cry and laugh together”

“We are a great family; we know their needs, we cry and laugh together”

During 2022, IBA’s Resident Services Program (RSP) worked tirelessly organizing more than 20 events or activities for all the residents of Villa Victoria.

With the celebration of holidays and notable dates and lunches, walks and parties, everyone stayed very engaged in the RSP community programs throughout the year. This high level of engagement helps build community and improves everyone's mental health.

Resident Services Program Director, Yahaira Obijio, tells us why being able to make all this happen is so important and why all donations to this program are vital to the well-being of the community.

“The physical and mental health benefits of participating in recreational activities have been extensively studied (Henchy, 2013; Oftedal & Schneider, 2013). Through recreation, healthy living conditions are promoted. Various investigations establish that they favor mood, increase self-esteem, reduce stress, anxiety and the risk of depression. This is why at RSP we try to bring a variety of events to our community that promote education, culture, health, coexistence and the comprehensive training of our residents.

I have heard the testimony of many neighbors, especially those with mental health problems and older people who live alone, who tell us how good it is for them to attend our events. They tell me that their mood changes and they appreciate the opportunity they have to establish a bond of friendship with their neighbors. Some have expressed to me that, sometimes, it is the only time in the day that they have to share with other people or have a moment of joy.

Each story fills me with great satisfaction and motivation to continue offering varied and quality programming to our community.”

Sometimes, depending on the nature of the activity, the staff at IBA join in the community celebrations, sharing priceless moments with all the residents.

“It is important for IBA staff to participate as well because events are a means where we can develop relationships of trust and commitment with our residents. It is the means in which we become a great family; we know their needs, we cry and laugh together as well as we help them to seek together their maximum development as individuals.”

All our activities are very successful among the residents, but those that make it back year after year thanks to your donations are Bingo, painting classes, arts & crafts workshops, music social hours, and Zumba.

To donate and help us keep providing Villa Victoria residents with the services they need, please visit ibaboston.org/donate, or contact Jennifer Lopez at jennifer@ibaboston.org.

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