The breathtaking gondola ride at Crystal Mountain. Having an expert guided tour at the state capitol in Olympia. Taking in the fresh coastal air walking in downtown Westport. These and other adventures are part of the many activities available to residents of Village Green Retirement Campus. Activities Director Fay Weed plans trips near and far, books entertainers and is always looking for ways to enrich lives.
“So many people enjoy discovering new locations or they may want to visit a place they went to years ago,” Weed said. “We’ve also had great trips to the Tulip Festival, the LeMay Car Museum, Pike Place Market and Northwest Trek.”
As activities director, Weed is also in charge of planning fitness classes. Certified in diagnostic health and fitness, Zumba, chair Tai Chi and ATMA yoga, Weed teaches strength and stretch classes, Zumba gold/line dancing, chair yoga and water toning.
“I love teaching fitness and watching residents get stronger or more flexible with each class they attend,” Weed said. “Adults who take part in fitness are much healthier mentally, physically and emotionally.”
Weed combines the five components of fitness into each class: flexibility, muscular strength, muscular endurance, cardio/respiratory endurance and body composition.
“We also laugh a lot,” Weed said. “Laughter is a wonderful way to get an ab workout!”
With three staff members and two Village Green buses, Weed and her team are on the go with activities, including sunset dinners, men’s breakfasts, women’s lunch out and scenic bus rides. Hiking along the John Wayne Trail at Snoqualmie Pass and performances by the Federal Way Symphony appeal to others as well. For residents who prefer to socialize closer to home, rousing games of Jeopardy, pinochle, billiards, cribbage and Bingo are on-going favorites. Art history classes, weekly walking groups and monthly birthday celebrations add to the holistic approach of offering an array of enriching opportunities.
Getting to know people on a deeper level is one of the many benefits of working at Village Green.
“Being here has changed my life,” Weed, who interacts daily with residents, said. “They are so caring, so rich in history and knowledge. It’s an honor to be with them.”
