Blog & Events

Friendships & Connections at Attivo Trail

At Attivo Trail Waukee, friendships form in the most unexpected and heartwarming ways. From shared interests to simple gestures of kindness, our residents find connection, support, and joy in their community. Here are just a few stories of how friendships have blossomed right here at Attivo Trail! Agnes & Deb – A Friendship That Dances For Agnes, the first thing she noticed about Deb was her fabulous hairstyle. For Deb, she found in Agnes a bright light that she needed during a difficult time. Their first true connection? A Music in the Courtyard night, where Deb grabbed Agnes' hand and pulled her onto the dance floor! Their friendship is now filled with positivity, laughter, and the reminder to "get up and dance every day!" Verlyn – It’s a Small World! Verlyn’s story proves just how interconnected life can be: ➡️ Larry was Verlyn's superintendent from 1977 to 1979 while teaching Business Education! ➡️ The Pages, another resident couple, used to live next door to Verlyn’s high school friend in Rockwell City. ➡️ David, who moved in last year, knew Verlyn from when David’s late wife had taught with him back in the ‘70s. ➡️ Linda, a current resident, shares a mutual friend with Verlyn. A coworker who attends his church. These chance connections make Attivo Trail feel even more like home! Jeanie – A Warm Welcome For Jeanie, the kindness of other residents made all the difference when she moved in. Joni & Janice, returning from a shopping trip, stopped to introduce themselves. Shirley, her next-door neighbor, brought over small cakes as a welcome gift. Another resident shared chocolates just to say hello! Now, Jeanie and Eva get together regularly to chat while their husbands meet up in the Fitness Center. Michele – Building Friendships Over Puzzles & Games Michele has formed wonderful friendships across her 5+ years at Attivo Trail. Her first friend? Linda in the Library! They bonded over jigsaw puzzles and adjusting to Iowa life, as Michele had moved from New Mexico. Another friendship sparked when Sandy helped her with an internet issue. That one moment turned into patio chats, restaurant outings, and board game nights! Dee – From a Walmart Bus Ride to Cooking Demos Dee met Jackleen on a bus trip to Walmart—and after offering to help carry groceries, their friendship took off! They quickly discovered a shared love for wine, food, and cooking, which led them to start hosting cooking demonstrations for fellow residents! Being new to the area, they also enjoy exploring local shops and Jordan Creek Mall together. These stories are a glimpse of the friendships that make Attivo Trail special. Whether through a friendly hello, a shared hobby, or a spontaneous dance. Connections here turn neighbors into friends. Have your own Attivo friendship story? Share it with us!

Valentine's Fundraiser at Attivo Trail

Attivo Trail eagerly awaited Valentine’s Day this year thanks to a new candy gram fundraiser. Before the love-filled holiday, r esidents ordered chocolate rose s for delivery or pickup, with all proceeds going directly to the American Parkinson’s Disease Association (APDA). Eva, Attivo Trail’s resident ‘candy lady ’ , t eamed up with Attivo staff by crafti ng each of the caramel-filled chocolate roses by hand . This fundraiser was a brand-new initiative this year, and we hoped residents would appreciate and support it. They certainly did! With nearly 200 roses sold and over $500 raised , we are thrilled to contribute to the APDA and make a meaningful impact in just our first year . Parkinson’s D isease affects nearly one million people in the United States, with approximately 90,000 new cases diagnosed each year. It is the second most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer’s. For many of our residents, this cause holds deep personal significance, as several either have Parkinson’s disease themselves or know someone affected by it. The APDA works to provide resources, support, and research funding to improve the lives of those impacted . Two representatives from the Association visited to discuss their mission and how Parkinson’s disease affects individuals in Iowa. Residents who attended the session asked insightful questions and left with a deeper understanding of the disease. This candy gram fundraiser has also sparked conversation among residents, giving them an opportunity to share how the disease has touched their lives. It has also shown how easy it is to contribute to meaningful cause s that affect residents in our own community. A special thank you to M argaret, our Active Program Director, for organizing such a successful fundraiser! The residents of Attivo Trail take g reat pride in their ability to give back to their community, and their generosity is making a positive difference .

Attivo Trail: A Place to Call Home

At Attivo Trail, we feel thankful to participate in a community that feels like family. Each resident brings their own unique spirit and experiences, and together, we create a place filled with joy, kindness, and warmth. Here are some heartfelt testimonials from our residents, each sharing what makes life here truly special. Nancy: Nancy expresses her gratefulness for her apartment, where she loves watching the sunrise from her living room. “Moving here was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made,” Nancy shared. “Attivo Trail is home.” She also appreciates the top-notch maintenance team, which helps her focus on enjoying life without worries. In her words, “Attivo Trail stands out as one of the best when it comes to apartment living. I love living among wonderful people." Judy: Judy feels blessed to call Attivo Trail her home and appreciates the community where neighbors consistently help each other. She has made many friends here and cherishes her balcony, where she spends hours watching the birds and soaking in the beauty of the sunrise. Judy believes Attivo Trail offers something for everyone and says, “You can always find a kindred spirit in a neighbor right in the building!” Lee and Mary: Lee and Mary feel blessed to live in their apartment where the floor plan perfectly suits their needs. The courtyard is another place they enjoy, for walking during the day and events like Music in the Courtyard. They often express their gratitude for the underground parking, which shields their vehicle from the weather. Mary also enjoys the pool and the aquacise classes led by residents, where she stays active and meets new people. Harry: Harry feels blessed to live here, knowing his daughters feel happy seeing him enjoy a place he loves. He joined a coffee group that has grown to over 15 people, meeting each morning for good company. He appreciates the friendly neighbors, who frequently offer a helping hand, and looks forward to weekly meals out with his friends. Audrey: Audrey is grateful for the many activities that Attivo Trail organizes, like Bingo and I-Cub bus trips, which foster a strong sense of community. She is also thankful for the maintenance team’s quick responses and enjoys the quarterly touch-up paint services. Audrey feels blessed managing fewer bills, as her rent covers internet and water. Larry: Larry enjoys the community spirit at Attivo Trail and regularly attends coffee groups and Happy Hours to connect with others. He looks forward to the weekly activities, from Movie Mondays to exercise classes and games like Mexican train, which helps residents connect and enjoy the week together. Annette: After losing her husband, Annette found support in her new friends at Attivo Trail, who helped her through tough times. She is grateful for the fun activities the community organizes and has been part of Attivo Trail since the beginning, as one of the first 12 resi dents to move in. “I just love this place and recommend it to everybody,” she shared. These testimonials show how makes Attivo Trail provides more than just a residence; it creates a community where friendships flourish, neighbo rs offer support, and every resident feels truly at home.

The Power of Friendship at Attivo Trail

Strengthening Our Community, One Connection at a Time Friendships bring a special kind of joy whether it's sharing a laugh, lending an ear, or simply spending time together. As we age friendships become even more important in our lives through providing emotional support, combating loneliness, and creating a strong sense of belonging and purpose. At Attivo Trail, you’ll find plenty of chances to socialize and make new friends. There are many opportunities for residents to connect with others and build lasting relationships. Socializing and Staying Active: The Heart of Attivo Trail Music in the Courtyard brings the residents together for live music, good company, and conversation. A great way to get to know your neighbors. There are still plenty of indoor activities to keep you engaged and connected: Movie Mondays, Bingo, Book Club, Card games, and Mah Jongg These activities are perfect for meeting others and enjoying companionship. Fitness and Fun: Friends Who Work Out Together Friendship isn't just about sharing stories, it's also about encouraging each other to live healthier lives. At Attivo Trail, the Fitness Center and pool provide activities for individuals, for scheduled classes, or for hitting the gym together. Exercising with friends adds an extra level of motivation and support. The Benefits of Friendship: More Than Just Fun Friendships provide companionship, lift our spirits, and offer emotional support as we navigate the ups and downs of life. Whether you're celebrating a victory or overcoming a hardship, good friends are there to support you every step of the way. Investing in these relationships, whether through activities, classes, or just casual conversation, makes life better. It helps foster a deeper sense of connection and belonging, creating a vibrant, caring community for all at Attivo Trail. Building Stronger Bonds, One Friendship at a Time If you’re looking for a community where friendships thrive, look no further than Attivo Trail. Here, every day offers a new chance to connect with others, create lasting bonds, and enrich your life with the support of friends. So, the next time you see a neighbor or fellow resident, take a moment to strike up a conversation. You never know—it could be the start of a beautiful friendship that will brighten your days for years to come.

The Power of Music

“Certain songs bring tears to my eyes as they bring back fond memories, while other songs bring me out of my seat, and I can’t help myself but to dance.” Music is a powerful ally, bringing benefits to one’s health and well-being as they age. Every summer, Attivo Trail Waukee hosts local bands for our Music in the Courtyard events. Our residents enjoy a carefree night to dance, sing and be with friends as they listen to the band. As the band plays, residents will get up and dance together, either in a formed line dance or just as the music takes them. Line Dancing Class at Attivo Trail Waukee has been led by resident Deb since 2021 to get others moving to music as they learn the dance. Activities like dancing can improve coordination and flexibility and it is always fun to stay active together. While the group has grown and changed over time, the residents always come together to show off their moves any chance they get! Singing to music keeps the brain active and can help with memory recall and mental sharpness. Listening to a song can also unlock cherished memories. Some songs have residents talking about a time when that particular song was playing and what they experienced. Resident Judy shared, “Certain songs bring tears to my eyes as they bring back fond memories, while other songs bring me out of my seat, and I can’t help myself but to dance.” It’s always a joy to see residents meet new neighbors as they come for the music and end up staying for the entire show. Resident Johnna shared, “I have the best conversations with new people at [Music in the Courtyard].” A piano sits in our lobby, open for any impromptu performance. Those walking through will often find themselves pausing to listen in on resident Verlyn while he plays. A brief reminder that music is the language that connects all of us together. Music at Attivo Trail offers our residents the chance to express themselves and explore their feelings. It provides joy and a creative outlet, enriching lives as we all grow older.

Alzheimer’s Awareness in our Attivo Trail Community

Alzheimer's disease has touched the lives of many. At some point in your life, most people can say that they have a loved one or a friend with a loved one, that suffered from Alzheimer's. This is especially true for the Attivo Trail community. Kent, a resident since 2023, has a personal connection to Alzheimer’s disease. His wife was diagnosed in 2013, but he recognized symptoms as early as 2009. As her condition progressed, Kent became her caregiver, like many spouses, and eventually decided to move them into assisted living when her care needs exceeded what they could manage at home. His wife lived with Alzheimer’s until her passing in 2022. Kent shares his experience openly and is passionate about the Alzheimer’s Association and their work to find a cure. While Kent misses his wife, he has found a new community of support at Attivo Trail. Having neighbors that have gone through the same life experiences such as moving after the loss of a spouse is a unique benefit of an active living community. Attivo Trail supports the Alzheimer’s Association through various awareness and fundraising events, including pancake suppers and most recently a dunk tank! The community here is passionate about supporting the cause to cure the disease that affects so many Attivo Trail families. With each event, we see an increase in donations that directly go to the Alzheimer’s Association. Kent is especially looking forward to the Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Des Moines on September 28. "With the development of two new treatments over the last 12-18 months that elongate the quality of life when the disease is detected early on. We appear to be closer than ever before to a real cure for this dreadful disease. Now is the time to support fundraising events like the Walk to End Alzheimer's." The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest fundraiser for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. In 2023, more than 350,000 individuals participated in more than 600 Walks across the country, raising more than $100 million. The event encourages participants of all ages and abilities to join! Click here -> 2024 Walk to End Alzheimer's - Des Moines, IA: Attivo Trail | Walk to End Alzheimer's to see Attivo Trail’s team page, roster, and to donate to the cause. Take the time to learn about the disease and get involved!