Bible study, bingo, shuffleboard, bocce ball, musical matinees, tai chi, and walking are just a sample of the daily activities that residents participate in at Independence Hall Senior Living and Williamsburg Landing.
Paula Reis, their Resident Engagement Director, has been loving her career with Golden Bell Senior Living, the owner and operator of the two communities.
Paula joined Golden Bell in December 2023 and has since brought her wealth of experience and passion for enhancing the lives of seniors through meaningful engagement and active aging initiatives.
“After my interview with Mike Rabold, the president of Golden Bell Senior Living, I left the community saying, ‘I could totally live here!’” she shared.
With over 30 years of experience working with diverse groups in various settings, including corporate, tourism, and clinical settings with children, families, and college students, Paula found her calling when she was invited to Florida to apply her background in exercise science and health and wellness to senior living. Her tai chi sessions are popular and have immense benefits for seniors.
“For me, being in senior living means making a meaningful difference in people’s lives every day,” Paula said. “My passion is creating tailor-made experiences that foster enjoyment, satisfaction, and a sense of purpose by designing every aspect, from the ambiance to the activities, to evoke the ideal experience.”
Paula’s dedication to her role fills her with boundless happiness and gratitude. She finds fulfillment in mentoring and coaching other activity directors and coordinators within Golden Bell while contributing to the company’s growth and expansion with robust programming and engagement strategies.
Residents at Independence Hall and Williamsburg Landing have been quick to praise Paula and Activities Coordinators Crystal and Andrea’s efforts with comments like, “seems like I’m living on a cruise” and “my days are more meaningful,” becoming commonplace.
“I’ve heard from residents that their pain is less severe, or they tell me they can walk faster, or that they have a new group of friends,” Paula fondly recalled. “I’ve even had a resident tell me that it feels like they are back in college with so many new things they are learning.”
Paula’s commitment to creating vibrant communities extends beyond the communities’ walls, as she encourages a culture of service and generosity among residents.
“Small acts of generosity, empathy, and compassion can spread and change someone else’s life,” Paula added. “From writing positive quotes in cards to baking for our furry friends at the animal shelters or volunteering with each other … every gesture makes a difference.”
Paula Reis and the engagement team look forward to continuing to positively impact seniors’ lives and fostering vibrant, engaging environments at Independence Hall and Williamsburg Landing.
