We have officially welcomed fall, and we started the season off with a bang with our wonderful 7th Anniversary Celebration & Fall Festival last week!
A huge thank you to everyone who helped organize and make the event so special, and to all of our families and friends who joined us for the celebration. We are so grateful to have such a wonderful Parks’ Place community. Below are some pictures from the event that show we definitely created plenty of moments of joy!
We also welcomed back some of our favorite long-necked friends from Carlson’s Lovable Llamas last week! We are always in awe of their beauty and gentle nature. Our residents love spending time with them, and learning about llamas never gets old!
🍂 Looking Ahead to October
October is shaping up to be another busy and fun-filled month! Our October Life Enrichment Calendar is available below, and we have added several special events in addition to our regular daily activities and entertainers.
October 6 at 1:30 p.m. – Bestie Bunnies Visit October 12 at 1:30 p.m. – Tentative Fall Leaves Bus Trip October 18 at 2:30 p.m. – Volunteer Performance by Tim Biren October 25 at 1:15 p.m. – Beads of Serenity Project Visit October 26–30 – 🎃 2nd Annual HOWL-O-WEEN Contest!
We are looking forward to another month filled with music, animals, outings, creativity, laughter, and plenty of opportunities to create more moments of joy together!
Happy Fall from all of us at Parks’ Place! 🍁
Coming Up This Week and Next Week
Thursday, 10/1: 6:15 pm Church Service with Pastor Arlen Friday, 10/2: 10:30 am Music by Niny Saturday, 10/3: 10:30 am Music by Rosewood Tuesday, 10/6: 1:30 pm Visit by Bestie Bunnies Tuesday, 10/6: 2:30 pm Music by Wayne Thursday, 10/8: 2:30 pm Music by Benny
Thank you for your continued support of Parks’ Place. We love sharing these special moments with you and appreciate the opportunity to be part of your family’s journey. 💜
You’re invited to the Parks’ Place Fall Festival 2026. We’re celebrating seven years!
Join us for our 7th Anniversary with a Fall Festival for our residents, families and friends. The event will feature music, great food, family-friendly activities and more.
We have many wonderful moments of joy to share with you from the past couple of weeks!
Our residents enjoyed a scenic bus tour around beautiful Lake Minnetonka, complete with a stop at the Minnetonka Drive-In for delicious malts. It was especially nice to have several family members join us for the outing. We’re already looking forward to our next adventure—a fall color tour later this year!
We also kicked off our summer concert series, Music at the Parks‘, featuring Beachcomber Bob. He transformed our dining room into a tropical paradise with palm trees, costume changes, bubbles, and plenty of fun props that had everyone smiling and singing along.
Our next Music at the Parks’ concert will be Monday, July 27 at 6:30 p.m., featuring Firespice. We hope you’ll join us for another fun evening of music and fellowship!
One of our favorite weekly traditions also returned this week. After being away on vacation last month, Pastor Wayne was welcomed back with open arms, joyful singing, and plenty of smiling faces.
Residents also enjoyed wonderful musical entertainment from Van & Kathy Nixon on Monday and the incredible piano talents of Benny Weinbeck on Thursday.
In addition to music, our residents stayed busy with a variety of engaging activities, including:
Food, Facts & Fun, where we made (and sampled!) delicious taco dip
Ecumenical church service with Pastor Arlen
A creative project with Northern Clay
Watercolor painting and other fun crafts
Morning activity groups outdoors, enjoying the beautiful summer weather
A special lunch treat featuring McDonald’s cheeseburger meals and chocolate shakes! There were lots of smiles as everyone enjoyed this classic summertime meal together.
Celebrating our bride-to-be! We honored Activity Assistant Emma as she prepares for her July wedding with wedding cake, laughter, and heartfelt words of wisdom and marriage advice from our residents. It was a meaningful celebration filled with love, memories, and well wishes.
Thank you for your continued support of Parks’ Place. We love sharing these special moments with you and appreciate being part of your family’s journey.
Activities Calendar, Menus, December Events, Create Moments of Joy Holiday Dinner, Music with Rosewood Band, Wayzata High School Chamber Choir and caroling
On the twelfth day of December, we have so much to share!
Our month has been filled with joy and activity. We kicked off the month with our favorite visitors, the “Bestie Bunnies,” who always bring us smiles and cuddles. The life enrichment team has been busy as elves with holiday projects, reminiscing, baking, and hosting entertainers. This week, a group of local community members spent the evening caroling with our residents and staff, and the Rosewood Band returned to perform some of our favorite holiday tunes.
Wednesday marked our 7th Annual “Create Moments of Joy” Holiday Dinner. We want to thank Santa Claus for taking time out of his busy schedule to bring us all holiday cheer, and we are grateful to the Wayzata High School Chamber Choir for their beautiful performance under the direction of Eliza O’Conner.
As many of you know, this has been a meaningful year for Parks’ Place. We were honored to be recognized locally in the Reader’s Choice Awards, and on a national level, we received the Bronze Commitment to Quality Award from the American Health Care Association and the National Center for Assisted Living. These acknowledgments reflect the heart and dedication of our entire team.
Nearly 20 years ago, when Jerry Parks was diagnosed with young-onset Alzheimer’s, he told his family he wanted to make a difference in the lives of others facing the same journey. At that time, we don’t think any of us imagined that six years after opening Parks’ Place, we would be making such an impact in the memory care community. Together, we truly are redefining memory care.
What we do at Parks’ Place requires a team of committed, compassionate, extraordinary people, especially our wonderful caregivers who support our residents every day.
Thanks to all the donations from families and staff, we were able to provide several gifts for the children we sponsored through the Good in the Hood Holiday Help Campaign. This campaign supports low-income parents who might otherwise be unable to afford gifts for their children, allowing them to “shop” for toys at the Good in the Hood warehouse. Our residents selected several amazing gifts to donate and were thrilled to help sponsor these children.
This upcoming weekend, we have “Women of Song” performing on Saturday at 1:30 PM. We also added two additional entertainers, James Kirkendall and Accordion Pete, who will perform on Sunday. Next week, we are excited to have the Redeemer Lutheran Bell Choir perform on Wednesday evening, and a new performer named Steve Roehm, who will be playing the vibraphone, will perform on Monday at 3 PM. As always, families are welcome to join us for these performances.
Manager on Duty this weekend is Alice, LPN.
Entertainer(s):
12/9, 12/16, 12/23, , & 12/31 – Music by Wayne 3:30 pm
12/6 – Music by Rosewood 10:30 am
12/9 – Evening Entertainment with Volunteers 6:15 pm
12/12 – Music by Jeff Carver 3:00 pm
12/13 – Women of Song Performs 1:30 pm
12/14 – Music by James K 10:30 am
12/14 – Music by Adam 1:30 pm
12/15 – Music by Sean
12/17 – Redeemer Lutheran Bell Choir Performs 6:15 pm
12/19 – Music by Niny 10:00 am
12/22 – Music by Jeff 3:00 pm
12/23 – Music by Christina & Laura 10:30 am
Other:
12/2 – Beastie Bunnies Visit
12/9 – Bluestone Visits Group 1
12/10 – Podiatry Visits
12/11 – Ecumenical Church Service & Communion 6:15 pm
12/23 – Bluestone Visits Group 2
12/30 – Bluestone Visits Group 3
Good in the Hood Toy CollectionGood in the Hood Holiday Help CampaignRosewood Band performanceSanta at the Holiday DinnerA moment of joyWayzata High School Chamber Choir directed by Eliza O’ConnerSanta and Parks’ Place StaffSanta visiting at Create Moments of Joy Holiday DinnerHoliday CraftsCrafting a beautiful holiday sceneLocal CarolingBestie Bunnies smiles and cuddles
We are thrilled to share the exciting news about our first round of Platinum Certified Caregivers! At Parks’ Place Memory Care, we deeply understand the importance of delivering exceptional care to our residents. That’s why we created the Platinum Certification Program—a specialized 4-day training course designed to provide our lead caregivers and mentors with advanced tools, skills, and resources to uphold a “Platinum” standard of person-centered care.
About the Platinum Certification Program
Each Platinum participant was thoughtfully selected by our leadership team for their invaluable experience, outstanding skills, and unwavering dedication to customer service. Their ability to inspire others and uphold Parks’ Place’s high standards makes them an essential part of our caregiving community.
Throughout this program, we focused on building confidence, enhancing skills, and supporting their continued growth as leaders. The positive impact they will have on the lives of our residents is truly inspiring.
Topics Covered in the Program
Customer Service Excellence
Communication Skills
Medication Administration
Review of Policies and Procedures
The Dementia Experience (facilitated by dementia expert Theresa Klein, OTR/L)
Dementia Basics and Practical Tips
ADL (Activities of Daily Living) Techniques
Emergency Nursing Topics: Documentation, vital signs, and meal modifications
De-escalating Behaviors and Conflict Management
Enhancing Dining Experiences
Activities and Sensory Stimulation for Dementia Care
Mentor Procedures and Leadership Techniques
The Dementia Experience: Walking in Our Residents’ Shoes
One of the most powerful elements of the program was “The Dementia Experience”, facilitated by guest dementia consultant Theresa Klein, OTR/L. This interactive exercise allowed our participants to step into the world of our residents and experience firsthand the challenges of dementia at various stages—early, middle, and late.
This hands-on session deepened empathy, insight, and understanding, reinforcing the importance of person-centered care that prioritizes compassion and dignity. It was a transformative experience that left a lasting impression on our Platinum Caregivers.
Celebrating Our Platinum Certified Caregivers
The program concluded with a heartfelt Certification Ceremony where we gathered with families, leadership, and fellow caregivers to celebrate their achievements. This special moment marked not only the culmination of their training but also their unwavering commitment to raising the standard of care at Parks’ Place.
We are proud of their accomplishments and the leadership they bring to our team every day. These caregivers embody the very best of Parks’ Place Memory Care, and their compassion, skill, and dedication are truly inspiring.
Ongoing Support and Future Platinum Sessions
At Parks’ Place, we believe in continuous learning and growth. That’s why we will be offering Platinum Certification sessions every 6 to 12 months to train and empower new caregivers. Additionally, quarterly Platinum Caregiver meetings will provide ongoing mentorship, connection, and resources to help our team thrive.
A Commitment to Excellence
The Platinum Certification Program is a reflection of our commitment to delivering exceptional, person-centered care to individuals living with Alzheimer’s and dementia. By investing in our caregivers, we are creating a compassionate and skilled team ready to meet the unique needs of our residents.
Parks’ Place Memory Care is proud to be a partner location for Wayzata High School’s first-ever Nursing Assistant Course. This program marks a major milestone for students pursuing careers in healthcare, as they gain hands-on experience in supervised practical training this December and January. Parks’ Place is honored to support these future healthcare professionals as they develop essential skills and compassion for person-centered care.
About the Nursing Assistant Program
Under the guidance of a Registered Nurse (RN) in the classroom, students have built a strong foundation in:
Essential nursing skills
Patient care techniques
Professionalism in healthcare settings
This classroom instruction has equipped these motivated students with the confidence and knowledge to excel in their upcoming clinical experiences. During their supervised practical training at Parks’ Place Memory Care, these students will have the opportunity to apply their learning in real-world settings, providing high-quality and compassionate care to our residents.
Welcoming the Future of Healthcare to Parks’ Place
We are thrilled to introduce these eight outstanding students, each with a unique passion for healthcare and a bright future ahead:
Serena(11th Grade)
“I love directly helping people and learning something new every day. I aspire to become an RN and eventually a Nurse Practitioner.”
Ronit(12th Grade)
“I’ve always enjoyed helping people because it makes me feel good inside. I’m particularly interested in neuroscience.”
Siham(11th Grade)
“Ever since I was little, I wanted to be a doctor. Watching Grey’s Anatomy inspired me even more! I aim to become a pediatrician because I love working with kids.”
Katelyn(11th Grade)
“I’ve always been drawn to helping people, and I’m especially interested in neuroscience and the brain.”
Maahir(11th Grade)
“I originally wanted to work in pediatrics, but now I’m leaning toward family medicine.”
Lila(11th Grade)
“I want to work one-on-one with patients as an RN, either in pediatrics or the ER. My long-term goal is to become a PA or NP.”
Regan(11th Grade)
“I love biology and helping others. I’m particularly interested in forensic biology and science.”
Reyaansh(12th Grade)
“The human body has always fascinated me. I plan to focus on healthcare in the eye field.”
Supporting the Next Generation of Healthcare Professionals
At Parks’ Place Memory Care, we believe in fostering growth and providing opportunities for those passionate about healthcare. By partnering with Wayzata High School’s Nursing Assistant Course, we are not only contributing to the education of future healthcare leaders but also ensuring that compassionate, skilled caregivers continue to serve our community.
Why Choose Parks’ Place Memory Care?
Parks’ Place is a leading memory care community in Minnesota, dedicated to providing compassionate, person-centered care for individuals living with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Our commitment to quality care extends to supporting educational programs and developing the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Last Thursday, we celebrated a truly special moment at Parks’ Place Memory Care: the dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony for our newly donated Petrof Baby Grand Piano. This heartfelt occasion brought together residents, families, staff, and generous supporters who made this beautiful gift possible.
We are deeply grateful to Jayme and Jeanne Frankus, whose incredible generosity made this dream a reality. This piano will fill our halls with music, bringing daily joy and comfort to our residents and their loved ones. At Parks’ Place Memory Care, our mission is to “Create Moments of Joy,” and this thoughtful donation will inspire countless joyful moments for years to come.
We also extend our sincerest thanks to Marie Levitus, Martin Mikus, and Rita Lusky for their tireless efforts in facilitating this connection and organizing the transportation of the piano to Parks’ Place. Your dedication and kindness have truly enriched our community.
The Impact of Music at Parks’ Place Memory Care
Music has a unique power to connect with memory care residents, evoking emotions, memories, and even improving cognitive function. The addition of the Petrof Baby Grand Piano creates new opportunities for live music performances, sing-alongs, and moments of reflection, all of which are integral to the well-being of our community.
A Note of Thanks
Dear Frankus Family,
On behalf of everyone at Parks’ Place, we extend our deepest gratitude for your generous donation. This piano will be a source of joy, not only for our residents but also for their families and our entire team. Your support reinforces our mission and shows the incredible impact of community generosity.
Thank you!
Sincerely, The Parks’ Place Memory Care Team
Meet the Supporters
We are proud to share a group photo from this special day. From left to right:
Karen Parks
Jayme & Jeanne Frankus
Martin Mikus
Rita Lusky
Ron & Marie Levitus
Experience the Joy of Parks’ Place
At Parks’ Place Memory Care, we strive to create an environment filled with love, support, and moments of joy. If you’d like to learn more about our programs, upcoming events, or ways to get involved, please contact us. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those living with memory loss.
Parks’ Place Memory Care proudly celebrated its five-year anniversary of providing exceptional dementia care with a vibrant Fall Festival this past Sunday. Residents, family members, friends, and special guests came together to commemorate this milestone and recognize the incredible journey of Parks’ Place in creating a nurturing environment for those living with dementia.
Honoring the Legacy of Jerry Parks: A Vision of Compassionate Dementia Care
Parks’ Place was founded by the Parks family in honor of their father, Jerry, who was diagnosed with Young-Onset Alzheimer’s at just 56 years old. Jerry was passionate about changing the face of Alzheimer’s care and making a difference for others impacted by the disease. As his condition progressed, Jerry’s vision inspired our family to create a memory care home where residents are embraced as individuals—celebrating their abilities, not just their limitations.
Celebrating 5 Years of Parks’ Place Memory Care
This October, we are proud to celebrate five years of Parks’ Place, which began as a dream more than a decade ago. From finding the right land and securing financing to designing, planning, and building, the journey to create Parks’ Place was a labor of love:
2 ½ years spent finding land that could be rezoned
2 years to secure financing
1 year designing and planning with builders and architects
1 year from groundbreaking to grand opening
Parks’ Place Memory Care opened its doors in October 2019, just four months before the world faced a pandemic that significantly impacted senior living and memory care communities.
A Loving Home for Our Residents
Since our opening, Parks’ Place has been home to over 80 residents. Currently, we provide care and support to 30 residents:
13 residents have lived with us for 2+ years
5 residents have called Parks’ Place home for 3+ years
3 residents have been with us for over 4 years
Our success is a testament to the dedicated staff at Parks’ Place. Currently, we employ over 50 passionate individuals, with nearly half of them—21 staff members—having worked with us for more than two years:
8 staff members have been with us for 3+ years
4 staff members have been with us for 4+ years
3 staff members have been with us since our doors first opened!
Thank You to Our Amazing Volunteers
We would also like to recognize the incredible volunteers who have contributed their time and talents to enrich the lives of our residents. Whether it’s sharing music, painting, reading, playing games, dancing, or bringing in animals for visits, every volunteer helps create joyful moments for our residents.
In 2023, we recorded 259 volunteer hours, and in 2024, we’ve already logged approximately 1,395 volunteer hours, thanks in large part to our Life Enrichment Director, Valerie Gauster, and the dedicated students from Wayzata High School, who contributed 1,160 hours.
Our Commitment to Families
The Parks’ Place team is committed to building strong relationships with residents’ families. In 2024, we set a goal to meet with all resident families more consistently through care conferences, focusing on both clinical and personal needs. To date, we have completed 70 care conferences, averaging more than two meetings per week.
Thank You for 5 Wonderful Years
We are incredibly honored to provide care for our residents and deeply appreciate the trust that families have placed in us. Thank you to every family, staff member, and volunteer who has been a part of the Parks’ Place journey—together, we are creating moments of joy every day.
At Parks’ Place Memory Care, we believe in creating meaningful and joyful experiences for our residents and their families. Our recent summer carnival is just one example of how we strive to bring smiles, laughter, and a sense of community to everyone who is a part of Parks’ Place.
The carnival was a celebration of togetherness, where residents, their loved ones, and our staff came together to enjoy a day filled with fun activities, music, and delicious treats. Events like these are essential to our mission of fostering connections and creating meaningful activities for residents and their families.
We understand that these moments of joy are vital in enhancing the well-being of those in our care. That’s why we continuously organize engaging activities that allow our residents to share special times with their families, building stronger bonds and a supportive community.
At Parks’ Place, every event, big or small, is designed with love and care, ensuring that our residents feel valued, included, and happy. We’re committed to making every day a celebration of life, surrounded by those who matter most.
At Park’s Place Memory Care, our Life Enrichment department went above and beyond to fill our residents’ days with laughter, creativity, and companionship. From engaging in artistic endeavors to enjoying the company of a furry friend, our community was a beacon of joy and activity. Let’s take a moment to look back on these special moments that made our week unforgettable.
A Week Filled with Activities:
Our residents enjoyed a diverse range of activities that not only brought them together but also catered to their individual interests and needs:
Artistic Flair: Our painting sessions allowed residents to express themselves through color and creativity, resulting in beautiful pieces that now brighten our community spaces.
Playful Games: Our adapted volleyball matches provided fun, laughter, and physical activity, proving that joy has no age limit.
Culinary Adventures: Cooking together brought back fond memories and created new ones, as residents shared stories and recipes, bonding over the universal language of food.
Therapy Dog Visits: The visit from London, the therapy dog, was a highlight for many, offering comfort, reducing stress, and sparking conversations among residents.
