Extended Stay with Eloisa

It was a particularly sunny morning in our little corner of the world—or in this case, our slice of the Palmas. On this sunny, quaint, and peaceful morning, I had the pleasure of interviewing Eloisa, a dedicated senior who has been part of our services for 12 years. When I went to speak with her, I entered the Vasquez Center, affectionately referred to as "the senior center," and waited for Eloisa to finish writing her notes from the latest speaker. As I waited, I looked around at the faces of all our seniors in attendance, realizing that each one of them had a life lived and a story to tell. It wasn't a groundbreaking revelation, nor should it be treated as such, but it was at that moment it hit me that these stories deserved to be told. In other words, these are the stories of our individual neighbors who, together, create a collective narrative that turns House of Neighborly Service into a home for everyone.

For more than a century, House of Neighborly Service (HNS) has been a steadfast beacon of support in our community. Our Senior Health Program offers older adults a place for social engagement, health education, and emotional support—a true haven for many. It's with great pleasure, dear neighbors, that we welcome Eloisa's story to the stage.  She was kind enough to share her story and give us a glimpse into what makes House of Neighborly Service feel like home.

Discovering a Second Home

Eloisa’s first encounter with HNS was, as she tells it, like finding a second home. “A volunteer at Sacred Heart on Trinity told me, ‘House of Neighborly Service has loteria, good food, and everything else you could want.’ Slowly but surely, we grew in our group and visited. The rest is history,” she said with a smile. Over the years, her love for our program has led her to bring ten other seniors into our fold. “I tell them what I'm telling you!” she says proudly, confident that HNS has something special to offer. Unlike other places she’s been, HNS feels like family to her. “Other senior centers I've been to aren't as personable,” she noted, emphasizing the warmth and personal connection she feels here.

Memories and Moments That Matter

Every memory at HNS is a good one, Eloisa shared with a grin. “We celebrate everything: birthdays, holidays, etc. You always go home and remember your day at HNS.” It’s these moments of joy and celebration that stand out to her. But it’s not just the celebrations; it’s the people. “We love Elsa. Everyone will tell you she's our second mom,” she added, her voice full of affection. The bonds formed here run deep. To the seniors, Elsa is more than just a program leader—she’s family.

A Strong Sense of Community

What makes HNS feel like home? For Eloisa, it’s simple: “Family. We're family. Everyone's friendly. We all have our ups and downs together, but we are always together through it all.” This sense of togetherness has been a lifeline for her, especially after the tough year of 2020. “I stopped going to centers entirely in 2020, so coming back here, my husband can certainly tell the difference!” she laughed. Coming back to the supportive community at HNS has been like finding her feet again.

The Joy of Social Connections

Social connections are at the heart of HNS, and for Eloisa, these connections are invaluable. “We're family!” she exclaimed when asked about the friendships she’s formed. The lively environment, the good food, and the joy of being around so many wonderful people create a vibrant atmosphere. “The food! The environment, & the amount of people!” she listed her favorite things about HNS with a gleam in her eye. Her enthusiasm is contagious, and it’s clear that HNS is a place she cherishes. “I don't wanna miss it! I love it!” she said, and you could feel the joy and anticipation in her voice.

An Evolving Experience

Reflecting on her journey with us, Eloisa shared that she never felt nervous about coming to HNS. “There [was] never any nervousness about us. From the start, I could tell the friendliness. We have more staff than other centers, so there was always a sense of calmness that has continued throughout my time here.” It’s this welcoming environment that makes everyone feel at ease. “You don't have to worry about group involvement or being the first to speak; the staff and the familiarity of everyone has always made such an inviting environment,” she explained. HNS is a place where you can relax and know you’re among friends.

Looking Ahead

When asked about her hopes for the future of HNS, Eloisa had a simple request: “We need a bigger place. Much bigger.” The growing community at HNS is a testament to its success, and we are always looking for ways to accommodate more members and enhance their experience. “A bigger space with bigger bathrooms,” she suggested with a laugh, pointing out the practical needs that come with a thriving program.

A Message to Newcomers

For anyone thinking about joining our Senior Health Program, Eloisa has some advice: “I've brought ten people, so I know how to convince them! I tell them what I'm telling you!” Her words are full of the genuine appreciation and joy that HNS brings to its members. The sense of community and the personal connections made here are priceless.

At House of Neighborly Service, we believe in the power of community, support, and care. As we continue to grow and serve, we are dedicated to creating a space where seniors can thrive, connect, and find joy every day.

Closing Remarks

In conclusion, we are deeply grateful to Eloisa for taking the time to share her story with us. Her commitment to House of Neighborly Service and her enthusiasm for our Senior Health Program truly inspire us. Eloisa’s dedication not only enriches our community but also serves as a powerful reminder of the impact our programs can have on the lives of seniors. Her ongoing advocacy has brought many new members through our doors, helping to build a vibrant and supportive environment where everyone feels like family.

For those interested in learning more about our Senior Health Program and the services we provide, we invite you to visit our Senior Health page. Here, you can find more information about the activities, health education, and social engagement opportunities available to our senior members.

As our community continues to grow, so does the need for more space to accommodate our expanding programs. With your generous support, we can make this a reality through Phase Two of our Capitol Campaign. This initiative aims to provide the larger facilities we need to better serve our seniors, ensuring they have a comfortable and welcoming space to enjoy all that HNS has to offer.

If you would like to contribute to this important cause and help us continue to make a difference in the lives of our senior members, please visit our donation page. Every donation brings us one step closer to our goal, helping to create a brighter future for everyone in our community. Thank you for your support! Lastly, if you are interested in keeping up with all of the latest news and happenings, I encourage you to follow us on social media (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn), and subscribe to our newsletter!