- September 23, 2022
McGovern Commons at Nazareth Living Center recently celebrated its 30 anniversary. Residents and visitors enjoyed barbeque and were even treated to some surprises.
Anniversary celebration attendees were treated to a live petting zoo. The animals attracted the children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren of Nazareth residents and provided intergenerational fun for all.
The petting zoo was a hit, but would soon be overshadowed by the introduction of Nazareth’s newest employee.
Meet Sandy, director of smiles at Nazareth Living Center. Sandy is a golden retriever tasked with lifting spirits and spreading smiles throughout Nazareth Living Center. Sandy is being trained as a therapy dog, and after she finishes her certification, will spend time spreading cheer throughout the facility.
Dogs roaming McGovern Commons is not a new concept. When the facility first opened 30 years ago, residents cared for a cocker spaniel. When Angie Vorholt Wilsey, director of spiritual care at NLC, approached Julie Collins about the idea of having a dog at McGovern recently, things started falling into place. “When I approached our very forward thinking and compassionate executive director about the possibility, Julie Collins said yes without skipping a beat,” said Wilsey.
Canine Resources first looked into a having a cocker spaniel fill the open position, but the fit didn’t seem right. That’s when Judy Dawes, a resident at the Village at Nazareth and dog-mom to Sandy, mentioned she had always wanted a golden retriever. NLC was soon connected with breeder Margie Williams, and blessed with Sandy.
When Sandy was introduced, there were tears of joy and smiles from everyone eager to show the dog love. “I have fallen in love again and can finally tell all,” said Wilsey.