Working 9 to 5 but making it amazing: Orchard homes celebrate Dolly Parton’s birthday!
On 19th January, ‘Queen of Country’ Dolly Parton celebrated her 80th birthday. Across our amazing care homes, not only is country & western a popular genre, but residents and team members are always looking for any excuse for a sing-along and a boogie! With hit songs like ‘Jolene’ and ‘9 to 5’ on the playlist, the day was set to be a wonderful one.
Resident Peter at Archers Court Care Home in Sunderland is always showing off his brilliant dance moves, and he certainly felt the part in his western hat as he danced with his friends to fun country tunes.
Deputy Manager Jackie told us: “Everyone here at Archers Court loves a boogie and loves Dolly, so we just knew we had to celebrate together. We had the best day singing along to her music and the terrific decorations, which the team members put up, made us feel as though we had transported ourselves to a real western barn dance!”
The costumes didn’t just comprise of cowboy hats, but everyone also had their plaid shirts on, as well as bandanas and tasseled waistcoats!
Another home which always ceases an opportunity for a party is Chatsworth Lodge Care Home in Chesterfield! With props, costumes and a delicious spread of party food, everyone had the best time together.
Home Manager, Zenka always goes above and beyond in celebrating the big musicians, with a particular favourite of hers being Elvis Presley! She ensured that the home had a big Dolly Parton cardboard cut-out so that the residents could have a giggle and a lovely picture backdrop.
Meanwhile, at the nearby Riverdale Care Home, residents also became Dolly Parton for the day and enjoyed dressing up to feel the part. The ladies even had fluffy cowboy hats which made them feel truly special and part of the theme!
Activities Coordinator Wendy told us: “Not only do our residents enjoy music, dancing and dressing up, but they also love arts and crafts - so we incorporated fun activities with ‘Wanted’ posters to stick to the theme and also get creative. We had an excellent afternoon!”
Last but certainly not least, Activities Coordinators Lisa and Sharon at Green Park Nursing Home in Warrington got residents and colleagues involved in creating a very impressive music video for Dolly’s ‘9 to 5’ hit single. Their efforts were incredible and we’re sure that Dolly would be very proud!
We hope Dolly Parton had a splendid birthday! Thank you to all of our homes and activity teams for making every day so special for the residents. From props, to dancing, to delicious food, there’s never a dull day at Orchard!
If you’re looking for a career where you could be part of special days like this one, and where each day at work is different, stimulating and rewarding, then look no further than our careers page! Join one of our homes today and let’s make a difference together.
