Month: February 2014

To add color to Hopewell’s serene setting during these frigid months of winter, the Hopewell community gathered together to create these magical colored globes.

These creations were made by coloring water with everyday food coloring. Then, the fun began by filling the balloons with our colorful mixtures to make water balloons. The water balloons were placed outside in the below zero temperatures until frozen. When the balloons were removed, the globes glistened in the winter sunshine.

As you walk through Hopewell’s front door you are immediately greeted by the newest member of our community, an illuminated pink pig presented to Hopewell by an anonymous donor.

Everyone loved the adorable piglet, but sadly it was nameless. The residents decided that the adorable pig must have a name. A “Name Our Pig” contest began for the entire Hopewell community. The winner, Brendan, is sitting here with Mrs. McWiggles.

This month she is dressed in an original Valentine’s Day dress made by staff member, Laura Shetler. The hand-crafted sign welcoming visitors was created by our wonderful receptionist, Anne Andrews.

Stylish Mrs. McWiggles plans to have a creative hand-crafted designer outfit for each holiday. St. Patrick’s Day will be here before you know it!

Colleen Welder, RN C Director of Program Services writes: Hopewell recently hosted a group of 8 students from the University of Illinois. The students arrived on Sunday January 12th for their alternative winter break experience volunteering on the farm.

During the week they were here, the students worked on maintenance projects under the direction of the Hopewell Facility Director, Rick Polch. Their main project was painting the entry way and hallways in two of our cottages. The students did a great job with this and had a rewarding and positive experience at the same time. Their week of service ended with a nature walk along our trails led by Program Service Supervisor, Jack Childers. Hopewell plans to host a second group of alternative spring breakers in March of this year.