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 Activity
Directors employed by long-term care facilities have, on
average, 60 residents in their care. Planning activities
for this many patients would be overwhelming without
community involvement and support. As more communities
grapple with this growing challenge, Allen County is
fortunate to have in place an organization that
advocates these needs and works diligently to provide
access to quality activities that enrich the lives of
nursing home residents. This largely overlooked group
would otherwise have little or no opportunity to
experience the joy of live entertainment.
The In-Facility program offers residents the opportunity
to be recognized on birthdays, anniversaries and other
special occasions. This type of celebration helps to
bring people together and forges a stronger sense of
community and support for one another.
Artists encourage residents to sing along, to clap, to
tap, or to expressively participate in some form during
their performances. Residents often learn new songs, and
they have the opportunity to play and learn about
various musical instruments. AUI musicians regularly
take advantage of holidays and ethnic celebrations by
providing music and musical instruments to fit the
occasion.
Through a grant made possible by the Lincoln Group
Foundation and with the financial support of Sweetwater
Sound Inc., residents enjoy watching the wonderful
talents of the Fort Wayne Philharmonic. This portion of
the In-Facility is particularly enjoyed and has the
greatest impact on increasing visitation and
volunteerism.
A new project, in 2009, called “Music for Special
Events” provides facilities with special music for
activities that encourage community involvement. This
project was made possible in part by the Neighborhood
Grant Initiative sponsored by Arts United of Greater
Fort Wayne. The In-Facility program is blessed with the
financial support of donations made by caring
individuals, foundations, and businesses. 
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