THANKFUL

We continue to see signs of pre-pandemic emerge from the almost 2 years of deluge of COVID-19. At the very heart of Thanksgiving is the focus on relationship. There aren’t many days of the year that we sit down and take the time to reflect on the things we are grateful for. We are so grateful that we were able to hold our annual our program Thanksgiving Dinner meals.

The tables were once again lined up the entire length of the grand hallway. Festive tablecloths, napkins, center pieces, and such provided a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The cornucopia of food with the large assortment where everyone more than a few things they liked to eat. Nametags were provided with an activity of writing on the back something for which you were grateful. Each person, young and old, then stood up and shared what they had written. It was humbling to hear from our seniors the many times the Center was mentioned.

The Dakota Center has much to be thankful for this year. We have, so far, dodged any direct COVID-19 exposure to staff or clients attending our programs. The senior program is growing so fast that we have a waitlist of 12 people. The after-school program is seeing a steady increase in enrollment. We have secured many grants and support from both local and out of state foundations. We have moved to a digital working environment. There is just so much.

While all that is great, without the relationships we have with each other, it has no value. Seeing everyone at the long line of tables, laughing with friends, and enjoying the time together was so special and had a feeling of normalcy to it. Not being able to have this last year made this year even better. We are looking forward to Christmas!!