Residents at Barclay Friends brought home multiple award ribbons in the 76th Goshen Country Fair’s Floral Exhibition. This year marked a decade that residents have participated in the event. Residents from across all levels of care submitted arrangements in multiple categories and showcased an extension of the community’s vibrant horticultural therapy program. “The Goshen Fair has been a true blessing to participate in for the residents’ morale, sense of self worth and building personal confidence,” says Cheryl Bjornson, Horticultural Therapist at Barclay Friends. “The ribbons awarded are cherished by the residents and they are a testament to their commitment to the horticultural program here at Barclay Friends.”
Flower Exhibition
Thirteen residents from the skilled nursing neighborhoods showcased a total of 26 original arrangements in this year’s Flower Exhibition. Designs were entered into multiple categories including Alice in Wonderland, Day at the Beach, Birds of a Feather, Take Me Out to the Ballgame, and Miniatures. The variety of entries reflected not just artistic expression, but also a deep engagement in the process of growing and arranging. “How can you not like flower arranging?” said Monty G., who won fourth place in the Alice in Wonderland category and second place in the House Plant Exhibition. “It makes you feel good. It doesn’t always work out like you think, but you should always try and do your best.”
A First for Succulents
This year also marked Barclay Friends’ first foray into the House Plant Exhibition. Though no official succulent category existed, entries were welcomed into the House Plants / Other category. Organizers at the fair shared that a dedicated succulent category would likely be added next year in response to residents’ enthusiastic involvement.
Across all levels of care, including Skilled Nursing, Personal Care, and Memory Care, 32 residents collaborated to submit 20 entries. Bjornson remarked, “Everyone enjoys entering the Goshen Country Fair, especially when they win!”
Rooted in Horticultural Therapy
Participation in the Goshen Country Fair is more than a seasonal tradition at Barclay Friends; it is a meaningful extension of the horticultural therapy program. “This program builds community at Barclay Friends and outside of Barclay Friends,” says Bjornson. “I truly believe that we build confidence in living, participating, and supporting one another in whatever we are trying to accomplish.”