Family Dinner nights at Abington Manor have evolved into one of the most anticipated events of each month. The team puts an extraordinary effort into developing theme and preparing nutritious entrees for the residents.
EASTON, Pa. – Dinner is more than a meal at Abington Manor at Morgan Hill. It’s an event that brings families together, fills the dining room with laughter and leaves everyone eager for the next gathering.
Dining Experience Director David Kubisek launched the monthly family dinners in April, and what began as a thoughtful way to connect Abington Manor residents with their loved ones has quickly become one of the senior living community’s most popular traditions.
“We do it every month, and all the residents and their families are welcome to come,” Kubisek said. “It’s free for them. We do nice meals. The first time, we had fresh salmon that we marinated and grilled with fresh asparagus. Every month we try to outdo what we did the month before.”
That commitment to quality and creativity shows.
On any given month, guests might enjoy ribs, chicken cordon bleu, or filet and scallops. In September, the team prepared a full Italian spread featuring homemade spaghetti with big meatballs, tiramisu for dessert and cappuccinos made fresh from machines brought in from Kubisek and other team members’ homes.“If anyone is coming who is a vegetarian or diabetic, we make special desserts and entrées so we can accommodate everybody,” Kubisek added.
The response has been overwhelming. What began as a modest dinner has grown so popular that the team is “running out of space.” Each month, as many as 20 family members from memory care and nearly 80 from assisted living fill the room.
Mary Ann Smolenyak, Executive Operations Officer, said the enthusiasm from residents and families has been remarkable. “One of the family members told me that each month he can’t imagine how David’s going to top it. And sure enough, the next one is even better,” she said. “The team really does a great job.”
The sense of pride and teamwork is evident. “My team, they all put their hearts into it,” Kubisek said. “We sit down as a group and decide what we want to make or come up with a theme. Everyone takes a lot of pride in it. All the directors help serve. Everybody is involved throughout the whole property.”
For Jessica Ringo, Community Relations Director, the dinners have become more than a special treat. They’ve welcomed new families to Abington Manor. “The families LOVE this event,” Ringo said.
Ultimately, it’s about more than the food. Creating memories, fostering connections and celebrating the bonds that make Abington Manor at Morgan Hill feel like home all are on the menu.
For more information, contact Jessica Ringo, Community Relations Director, Abington Manor at Morgan Hill, at jringo@integracare.com or call 610.829.0100.