Event Recaps
Castle Beautification Day
On April 24, 2021, SPARC provided a Beaufitication Day at Castle Mobile Estates. SPARC partnered with Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay. The volunteers assisted on projects including step repair, fence repair, and landscape preparation at four homes.
Castle Kid's Innovation Day
On March 20, 2021, Castle had a Kid's Innovation event. SPARC partnered with Challenge Island, an organization who provides educational programs for kids. During the event the kids learned about elasticity and gravity while building their own rockets. A total of eight kids attended the program.
Castle New Shoe, New Year
On January 9, 2021, SPARC had the annual New Shoe Giveaway event at Castle Mobile Estates. A total of 37 kids received a new pair of shoes and five pairs of socks. SPARC partnered with the Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Department, who provided goodie bags for the kids and answered questions about safety procedures.
Castle Coat Drive
On November 5, 2019, SPARC held our annual coat drive where 18 Castle residents received new coats. During the event, residents were able to see a demonstration on CPR and learn various disaster safety tactics.
Castle Fire Alarm Event
At Castle there were 18 volunteers from Red Cross that came to install free Smoke Alarms and educate the residents on fire safety/home escape plans at the Castle community. 33 homes had Smoke Alarms installed!
Copacabana Summer Kick Off
On June 27, 2022 Copacabana residents enjoyed a summer kick off. SPARC partnered with TinkerSpace, a local organization greared toward STEM programs combined with creativity. TinkerSpace brought 3 stations for children to engage in. There was a coloring and art station and two building stations. A total of 62 residents attended the event.
Copacabana Safety Event
On May 20, 2021, a total of 110 residents of Copacabana participated in a Safety Event. The Sheriff's department presented on bike safety and street safety for the upcoming summer months. They also provided goodie bags including stickers, candy, pens and other items at their booth. After the Sheriff's presentation the children received a SPARC Summer Safety Bag.
Copacabana Holiday Event
On December 23, 2019, Copacabana received toy donations from Toys for Tots, Rancho Vallecitos residents, Chamber of Commerce and Lordsburgs Taphouse. Each child was able to receive four brand new toys. In total we had 213 toys donated including stuffed animals, puzzles, crafts, and many more.
Copacabana Halloween Event
On October 30, 2019, 21 kids and nine adults attended the Copacabana Halloween event. The La Verne Police Department sent two police officers to discuss Halloween safety with the kids. After the police department concluded their presentation, each child decorated their own pumpkin to get in the spirit of Halloween.
Copacabana After School Program Enrichment
On September 25, 2019, Copacabana had their After-School Program Enrichment. Crazy About Chemistry had a great presentation, science experiments and activities for the kids. A total of 16 children and six parents attended.
Copacabana Community Engagement Day
On September 7, 2019, students from the University of La Verne joined us for their Community Engagement Day. The students were divided into teams and given a list to tackle, including pulling weeds and painting sheds. We had eight students and their team lead, who were able to complete 13 homes.
Valentine's at Copacabana
SPARC partnered with the University of La Verne’s Office of Community Engagement to bring their annual MLK Day of Service to Copacabana’s seniors. Eight University volunteers and 16 residents attended. There was a Valentine’s Day card making station, a wildflower planting station and BINGO. SPARC provided lunch and BINGO prizes for everyone.
Smoke Alarms for Copacabana!
30 Red Cross volunteers installed 80 free smoke detectors in the homes of Copacabana residents. Many homes did not have any smoke detectors and a majority of the others were not functional.
Copacabana Community Engagement Day
On August 25th, Copacabana had their Community Engagement Day with the University of La Verne. Nine volunteers from the University removed weeds and debris around 15 homes. After, it was BINGO with seniors. Each volunteer paired up with a senior, and the four BINGO games where played in pairs.
Copacabana Back to School Event
Copacabana's Back to School Event had 30 children and 13 adults attend. The children participated in a paint and sip activity where they designed a canvas and enjoyed juice. Every child received a backpack filled with school supplies and two books. At the end, two tablets were raffled off.
Copacabana Tinkerspace Event
Copacabana had their summer event with Kathleen Caine from TinkerSpace. 15 children and seven adults attended. First, everyone was given a short lesson on motors and circuits. Then the kids made their very own wobblebots by connecting a circuit with a motor and battery on top of a drawing apparatus which was made from markers and recycled materials.
If You Can Dream It, You Can Do It
Several caring volunteers from the University of La Verne were kind enough to help out with the Martin Luther King Jr. celebration event at Copacabana. It was a day full of games and activities! Everyone at the Park was invited to participate and enjoy the wonderful day.
A continental breakfast was provided for the senior early birds. In the afternoon several children and their parents enjoyed games, relay races, the history of MLK day and made their own dream cloud.
Grandview Back to School
On July 27, 2019, Grandview had their Back to School event. Every child who attended received a backpack filled with school supplies and two books. Two tablets were raffled off and four received student packages. A total of 18 children and four parents attended.
Grandview's Sound the Alarm Event
On November 3, 2019, Grandview had the Red Cross Sound the Alarm event. The Fire Department discussed about safety before the teams were sent off to install smoke alarms. 109 smoke alarms were installed, 98 homes were helped and 150 residents were educated.
Grandview's Festive Holiday Event!
42 children and 25 adults attended Grandview's Festive Holiday Event! Every child received a Festive Craft Kit which included: a snowman craft, holiday activity book, holiday stamp, red and green glitter tattoo and a holiday pin. After, Santa arrived and each child received a mini stocking filled with candy and picked a toy from the toy chest.
Grandview Halloween Event
On October 24th, Grandview had a Halloween Event. 28 children and 10 parents attended. Laura from the Center for Oral Health gave a presentation on oral health and four children received free screenings. After, the children decorated pumpkins and glow in the dark glass jar globes with paint, stickers and markers. They then decorated Halloween shaped sugar cookies and enjoyed fruit punch. At the end of the event the sweatshirts were given away to all that signed up.
Chinese New Year Cultural Exploration Event and Grandview
The University of Redlands sent two students to teach the history behind Chinese New Year, the zodiac chart and calligraphy. Every student was given information on their zodiac animal and learned how to write I love you and dog in Chinese. Everyone enjoyed the learning experience and being able to dabble in a new culture. “Lots of luck for this Dog year”!!
Hacienda Resource Fair
On September 23, 2019, 15 vendors and 52 residents attended the Health Resource Fair. This has been the first Resource Fair in Hacienda Valley in six years. All residents had a bone density screening, as well as an oxygen level screening. Once the educational aspect concluded, lunch was served and the Hawaiian show began. The performers had the residents learn the traditional Hawaiian grass shack dance.
Hacienda Technology Class
On June 20, 2019, the Andriod phone training class was held at Hacienda Valley for the senior residents. They learned how to trouble shoot their phones, utilize apps, adjust enhancement settings and more of their personal questions were addressed. The program has a max of eight people who could participate to ensure everyone is receiving one on one attention.
Hacienda Bocce Ball Grand Opening Tournament
SPARC hosted its first exciting Bocce Ball Tournament! 45 residents attended the tournament. There were eight teams of four that battled for the SPARC medals. In the end, the Redneck Rollers took first, SLHB took second and the Late Bloomers took third. George Turk, President of Millennium Housing, even joined a team and competed with the best of them, unfortunately his team did not make the cut...this time. After the tournament ended everyone received their medals and a great lunch was provided. All the residents enjoyed the morning games whether they were participating or watching.
Learning to be Prepared at Hacienda
43 Hacienda residents were treated to a continental breakfast while they attended an educational seminar about disaster preparedness. There was a CERT team on hand who focused on teaching residents to use a HAM radio as well as the basic emergency procedures that would occur in Morgan Hill in the event of a natural disaster.
Emergency Preparedess
On April 27, 2022, Hacienda Valley had an emergency preparedness seminar with a total of 17 residents attend. SPARC partnered with Morgan Hill Emergency Services as well as Fire and Police Services. These organizations covered topics including first aid kit, evacuation sites, smole alarm safety and neighborhood programs Morgan Hill offers.
Lamplighter Spring Break
On March 31, 2022, Lamplighter held a spring break event with PlayWell, an organization focused on building problem solving skills, creative expression and encouraging self confidence in children. We had a total of 42 children attend, each working on projects and enjoying catapults.
Lamplighter Summer Kickoff
On June 11, 2021, a total of 36 residents attended the Lamplighter Summer Kickoff. All attendees enjoyed a scientific show from MAD Science of the Bay Area where our scientist introduced the audience to special effects and the uniqueness of fire. After, each child assembled their own SPARC safety bag which included a water bottle, band-aids, sun block, jump rope or frisbee, bubbles and hand sanitizer.
Lamplighter Beautification Day
On April 23, 2021, Lamplighter received a Beautification Day event. SPARC partnered with Habitat for Humanity, Monterey Bay. A total of nine volunteers participated and completed repainting two mobile homes within the community.
Lamplighter Christmas Event
On December 9, 2020, SPARC adopted 35 families at Lamplighter, which totaled in 68 gifts given away to the children. Every family received a grocery gift card to assist with holiday shopping. Each child took a photo with Santa and were given craft bags. To go lunches were provided to all families that attended the event.
Lamplighter Food Program
On March 24, 2020, Lamplighter launched a new food program. The food program occurs on a monthly basis, with an average of 20 families participating in the program.
Lamplighter Holiday Event
On December 19, 2019, Lamplighter had their Holiday event including cookie decorating, gift bag design craft, a hot cocoa gift building station and photos with Santa. After completing each station, the children were able to select a new toy from the gift table. 62 Lamplighter residents attended the holiday event.
Lamplighter Sound the Alarm Campaign
On July 28, 2019, SPARC partnered with Red Cross to bring safety to the residents in Lamplighter, through the Sound the Alarm Campaign. A total of 64 homes were assisted, 181 smoke alarms were installed and 259 individuals were educated.
Lamplighter Shoe Give Away
On January 25, 2019, Lamplighter had their annual new shoe giveaway to start the New Year! 22 pairs were given away to the kids and all of the families were very excited to receive brand new shoes. SPARC partnered with Shoes that Fit, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide children in need new athletic shoes to attend school with dignity and joy, prepared to learn, play and thrive.
Lamplighter Holiday Event
On December 17, 2018, 53 residents from Lamplighter attended the holiday event where they decorated cookies and made holiday cards. Santa then came to take photos and mingle with the children while they made cookies. Each child chose a small toy and gifts were raffled off, donated by the Salinas Fire Department.
Lamplighter Back to School Event
On July 30, 2019, Lamplighter had a Back to School event that featured an educational animal show. The Special Memories company brought a chimpanzee, a little crocodile, a hedgehog, a snake, and a tortoise. The trainer had a fun comedy skit with the chimpanzee and the kids were able to touch the snake, hedgehog and tortoise. After the event, 52 backpacks were given out, two tablets were raffled off and five grad packages were given away.
Lamplighter Bike Rodeo
On June 13, 2019, 45 lamplighter residents attended the Bike Rodeo. There were 30 kids and 15 parents. Each child learned about bike safety, had minor repairs done on their bikes, learned how to fit a helmet, rode the safety course and decorated a bike license. Also, Ecology Action, the bike safety organization, donated 10 items: helmets, reflectors, water bottles and bike accessories that were raffled off.
Las Casitas Summer Safety
On July 14, 2022, SPARC partnered with Sonoma County Regional Parks and HealthSource at KidSake for a summer safety event at Las Casitas. Sonoma County Regional Parks provided a water safety presentation showing the residents how to properly check a life jacket and how to safely help someone in the water. HealthSource at KidSake provided a CPR demonstration and brought dolls for the children and adults to practice themselves.
Las Casitas Beautification Day
On May 20, 2022, SPARC partnered with Habitat for Humanity of Sonoma for the second year. A total of 25 volunteers attended our two day event. During the weekend the organization completed four homes of yard clean up, step repair and a new community garden. SPARC also partnered with the Home Owners Association to provide a community bbq and cobblestones for Las Casitas children to decoration and place within the new garden.
Las Casitas New Year, New Shoe
On January 28, 2022, SPARC organized our New Year, New Shoe event. A total of 55 kids signed up for the program. Each child received a new pair of shoes and a pair of socks from Bombas.
Las Casitas Summer Kickoff
On June 18, 2021, 30 residents attended the Las Casitas Summer Kickoff. SPARC partnered with School Garden Network, an organization who aims to grown healthy students, families, schools and communities through garden-based education. The organization brought multiple activities including constructing seed packets, building flower crowns and a bicycle to blend their own smoothies. After, each child received a SPARC safety bag.
Las Casitas Summer Art Class
On July 10, 2021, SPARC partnered with Sonoma Community Center to provide art classes at Las Casitas. A total of 22 kids attended the class and made animal themed cups. The art classes will occur monthly until September, providing a fun and social outlet for children.
Las Casitas Beautification Day
On May 15, 2021, SPARC partnered with Habitat for Humanity of Sonoma County. A total of 18 homes were completed by 25 volunteers. Projects included painting, carpet installation, yard work, step repair, fence repair, gutter cleaning and yard clean up.
Las Casitas Christmas Event
On December 12, 2020, SPARC partnered with the 20-30 club to organize a Christmas event at Las Casitas de Sonoma. The 20-30 club adopted 43 children from the community. They brought Santa, craft bags and pre-packed meals for the families to take home. The clubhouse was filled with wrapped gifts for each child to take home from Santa.
Las Casitas Adopt a Senior
On December 11, 2020, SPARC adopted 14 seniors from Las Casitas de Sonoma. The SPARC team wrapped and delivered each custom ordered gift to the senior residents to ensure they each received something special for the holidays.
Las Casitas Holiday Event
On December 21, 2019, the 20-30 Club adopted Las Casitas for the fifth year in a row. They sponsored the event by providing lunch, Santa, crafts and cookies. Each member of the club adopted a child and they received their gifts after taking a photo with Santa.
Las Casitas Holiday Event
On December 17, 2018, Las Casitas had 64 residents attend the holiday event, sponsored by the 20-30 Club of Sonoma County. 51 children were adopted and given gifts from the members of the club. After gifts were handed out, each family was able to meet and take a photo with Santa.
Las Casitas Ready and Resilient Seminar
On October 18, 2018, Las Casitas attended the Ready and Resilient Seminar. The program was ran by the Chief of the Rohnert Park Fire Department, Jim Thompson, who discussed the disasters that are likely to occur around Las Casitas community. He covered earthquake, fire and flood preparedness.
Las Casitas Halloween Safety Event
On October 13, 2018, 23 children and six adults attended the Halloween Safety event. Forgotten Felines, a non profit organization, discussed how to be safe around animals during trick or treating. After the presentation the children made a cat nip toy to donate to the shelter.
Las Casitas Red Cross Fire Alarm Event
On September 15, 2018, Las Casitas had new smoke detectors installed in 121 homes. Volunteers from the Red Cross assisted in the project.
Las Casitas Summer Art Class
On July 10, 2021, SPARC partnered with Sonoma Community Center to provide art classes at Las Casitas. A total of 22 kids attended the class and made animal themed cups. The art classes will occur monthly until September, providing a fun and social outlet for children.
Leisure Beautification Day
On May 14, 2021, SPARC partnered with Habitat for Humanity of Sonoma County. A total of 20 volunteers attended and completed projects on 11 homes within the Leisure community. Projects completed included yard work, painting, carpet installation, step repair, fence repair and yard clean up.
Leisure Kids Coat Giveaway
On November 6, 2020, the Kids Coat Giveaway was held at Leisure. A total of 18 families received their new coats for winter. To go dinner was provided to the families that attended the event.
Leisure Senior Warm Kit
On November 6, 2020, Leisure had their Senior Warm Kit Giveaway. We had a total of 39 seniors pick up their warm kits. To go dinner was also provided to all seniors that registered and attended the event.
Leisure Holiday Event
On December 8th, 2018, 95 residents attended Leisure’s holiday program. The children were given gifts that were donated and were able to take a photo with Santa. After, everyone enjoyed a holiday community potluck with contributions from each household for all to enjoy.
Millbrook New Shoe, New Year
On January 13, 2021, SPARC held the annual New Shoe Giveaway event at Millbrook. A total of 27 children received new shoes and five new pairs of socks. Each family received dinner and a SPARC safety bag.
Millbrook Holiday Event
On December 23, 2019, Millbrook had their annual Christmas Event. Residents from The Woods, Toys for Tots and the Mexican Lady's Society each provided support to organize the holiday event. Each child received four gifts and were able to make their ugly Christmas sweaters. After the gifts were passed out, the kids had a visit from Santa and decorated cookies.
Millbrook Senior Social
On November 20, 2019, Millbrook had their senior social including a presentation on fire safety from the Fresno Fire Department. They presented about kitchen safety, gave space heater tips, light decoration tips and information on smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. Each resident was also able to take home a warm kit, including a blanket, gloves, beanie, scarf and fuzzy socks to be prepared for the winter.
Millbrook Red Cross Pillowcase Project
On November 14, 2019, the Red Cross Pillowcase Project was held at Milbrook. The Red Cross presented about what to do in case of a disaster, in particular a home fire. They gave out pillowcases and the kids were able to color them and take them home. The purpose of the pillowcase was to fill it with basic needs. It was a successful presentation to help prepare residents for any disaster.
Millbrook Beautification Day
On April 16, 2019, a group of 30 volunteers from churches and organizations within the community spent a total of nine hours working on homes at Millbrook. The volunteers were able to clear a large amount of debris and weeds for the residents.
Millbrook Holiday Event
On December 17, 2018, Millbrook had their Holiday Event. Over 40 residents attended. Every child received a Festive Craft Kit which included: a snowman craft, holiday activity book, holiday stamp, red and green glitter tattoo and a holiday pin. Kids enjoyed coloring sheets and a card making activity. Santa Claus and Mrs Claus even made an appearance. Every child received a gift and had the opportunity to take a picture with Santa.
Millbrook Summer Teaching Tidepool
On June 19, 2018, Millbrook had their Summer Teaching Tidepools Event.The children who attended had the opportunity to see and touch living California tide pools animal. They experienced sea creatures as well as an informative and interactive presentation from two Aquarius Aquarium staff educators.
Palomar East Senior Citrus Picking
On July 12, 2022, SPARC partnered with Senior Gleaners, a local organization that serves in need residents by removing fruit from homes and orchards that are not able to. The organization assisted 21 homes between Palomar East and Palomar West. A total of 3,000 pounds of fruit were picked and donated to Interfaith and a local foodbank.
Palomar East Resource Fair
On April 23, 2022, 68 residents attended the Palomar East Resource Fair. SPARC had 16 organizations attend such as AARP, WestPace, Alzheimer's Association, Live2B Healthy, CTAP, Sheriffs of San Marcos, Oasis and Litterno Law. Oasis handed out applications for income qualifiying residents to receive tablets and gift cards to online classes. WestPace provided balance and blood pressure screenings, while Onsite Wellness conducted bone density screenings. This event featured live music and an exercise demo from Live2B Healthy. WestPace, Oasis, Alzheimer's Association, Live2B Healthy and LifeLine donated items to our raffle.
Palomar East Tax Assistance
On February 7, 2022 Palomar East had the first AARP tax prep program for the season. A total of 25 residents from 17 spaces had their taxes prepared for free. Each tax session day can accommodate 24 spaces, accounting for one to two residents per time block. This program will take place every Monday until April 11, 2022. Palomar East will have three designated days to have their taxes filed.
Palomar East Lunch and Learn
On June 9, 2021, 15 residents attended the Lunch and Learn event at Palomar East. Dr. Colt, a physician from WestPace spoke to the residents about moving into the new normal and how to address any health needs that may have taken a toll during COVID.
Palomar East Band and Bingo
On May 26, 2021, Palomar East had a summer kick off event of Band and Bingo. A total of 36 residents partiticipated. SPARC partnered with WestPace who provided free blood pressure checks for all senior residents. WestPace also provided care bags with health tips and mini plants for the seniors to take home. Tony Merlo, a saxophone musician attended the event as live entertainment while bingo was played. At the end, four residents received their bingo prizes from SPARC.
Palomar East Produce Project
On April 13, 2021, SPARC partnered with Produce Good, a local non-profit organization. The volunteers completed fruit picking at seven homes of Palomar East. A total of 700 pounds of fruit were collected and donated to a local food pantry.
Palomar East Tax Program
On March 9, 2021, Palomar East participated in a tax program from Interfaith Community Services. Interfaith tax preparers provided onsite assistance to accommodate each case and complete it that day. The organization also provided a drop off option for our residents. A total of 66 seniors had their taxes completed.
Palomar East Art Classes
On September 15, 2020, Palomar East launched a new art program. The art classes are being taught by two residents from Rancho Vallecitos. Nine residents attended the class and practiced social distancing. The art classes are being held once a month for residents.
Palomar East Tai Chi Program
On September 4, 2020, Palomar East launched a new Tai Chi program. Classes are being taught by a Kaiser Permanente volunteer. Each class allows ten residents to continue our COVID-19 safety protocol. Tai Chi classes are being held once a week for residents.
Palomar East Summer Break
On May 28, 2020, an authentic Hawaiian shave ice truck stopped by Palomar East for residents to enjoy. A total of 55 residents were able to receive their shave ice, while continuing to practice social distancing.
Palomar East Health & Wellness Fair
Palomar East had a Health & Wellness Fair where 19 vendors and 40 residents participated. Palomar Health offered blood pressure screenings, the Lions Club offered vision screenings and Alex from Massage 4 Ur Health offered free massages. There were two breakout sessions: Cindy Sawyer from Southwest Lifeline gave a presentation on fall prevention and home safety and LaTanya Runnells from Mental Health America presented on mental health and clarity. Ken Hodor, a resident of Palomar East, gave a technology presentation on how to “surf the web” for health related topics.
Palomar West Lunch and Learn
On June 16, 2021, Palomar West hosted a Lunch and Learn event with Dr. Colt, a physician from WestPace. He provided the residents with information regarding the transition into a new normal after COVID-19 and the health needs that may have taken a toll during the shelter in place. A total of 12 residents participated in the event.
Palomar West Produce Project
On April 13, 2021, SPARC held a fruit picking project day at Palomar West. Volunteers from Produce Good, a local non-profit organization picked fruit from seven homes. The organization collected a total of 700 pounds of fruit and donated the produce to a local food pantry.
Palomar West Tax Program
On February 16, 2021, a total of 30 residents participated in the tax program at Palomar West. Interfaith Community Services volunteers completed residents taxes that day. They also provided both in person and drop off options for our residents.
Palomar West Art Program
On September 22, 2020, Palomar West launched a new art program. The art program is being taught by two Rancho Vallecitos residents. Classes hold up to 10 residents to allow social distancing. This class will be held on a monthly basis.
Palomar West Tai Chi Program
On September 10, 2020, Palomar West began a new Tai Chi program. Each class has ten residents, allowing social distancing to be practiced. The class is taught by a Kaiser Permanente volunteer. Tai Chi classes are being held once a week for residents.
Palomar West Summer Break
On May 27, 2020, Palomar West residents enjoyed an authentic Hawaiian shave ice truck. The event promoted mental health and socialization. A total of 59 residents attended the community event, each practicing social distancing.
Palomar West Art Program Launch
On November 13, 2019, due to a grant from the San Marcos Community Foundation, SPARC launched a monthly art class with instructors from Charity Wings. A total of nine residents attended the launch and enjoyed a painting on canvas class. The program will continue on a monthly basis until June.
Palomar West Smartphone Training
On October 17, 2019, SPARC partnered with CTAP to provide an iPhone and Android technology class. Six residents attended the iPhone class and eight residents attended the Android class. The residents learned how to send text messages, connect to Bluetooth, utilize the magnifying glass app and much more.
Palomar West Hear USA Event
On October 4, 2019, SPARC partnered with Hear USA, an organization whose mission is to provide the highest quality hearing health care. They presented on hearing loss and two audiologists conducted hearing tests. 30 residents attended the presentation and 10 residents received free hearing screenings.
Palomar West Will and Estate Workshop
On December 3, 2018, 18 residents attended the lunch and learn seminar. A lawyer, from Elder Law in San Diego, gave a presentation that addressed the importance of a health directives; married, widowed and divorced claim benefits and HIPAA rules.
Pillar Ridge Earth Day
On April 17, 2021, Pillar Ridge held an Earth Day event for 30 residents. SPARC partnered with Wild Mind Science, a wild animal sanctuary in Half Moon Bay. The organization taught the kids about native animals, specifically in their area. They presented a porcupine, owl, hawk and grey fox. SPARC also provided flower pots and flower seeds for each child to take home and plant.
Pillar Ridge Christmas Event
On December 9, 2020, Pillar Ridge had their Christmas event where 37 families attended. A total of 67 children took photos with Santa, received a craft bag and chose a toy to take home. To go dinner was provided to each family that attended the Christmas event.
Pillar Ridge Kids Coat Giveaway
On November 5, 2020, Pillar Ridge held their first Kids Coat Giveaway. We had a total of 20 families pick up their new coats. To go dinner was provided to each family that signed up and attended the event.
Pillar Ridge Holiday Event
On December 20, 2019, 135 residents of Pillar Ridge attended their holiday event. The event included cookie decorating, gift bag design craft, a hot cocoa gift building station and photos with Santa.
Pillar Ridge Halloween Safety
On November 5, 2019, Pillar Ridge's Family Resource Fair combined with the Halloween Safety event was a success! The Sheriff's Department provided activities on how to be safe during Halloween. The families then visited our 10 other vendors that had information ranging from oral health, senior services, ocean conservation, nutrition, disaster preparedness and bike safety. There were also six interactive stations including games, craft table, touring a fire truck and many more activities. At the end of the event, SPARC raffled off prizes among the 82 residents that attended the program.
Pillar Ridge Back to School Event
On July 30, 2019, Pillar Ridge had a Back to School event. SPARC partnered with SAL, who brought music, games, face painting, spin art, and a bounce house. Families had the opportunity to walk around and engage in these fun activities. After, backpacks, books, and raffle prizes were distributed. 145 residents attended the event and 113 backpacks were handed out. Two tablets and five grad packages were also raffled off and every child left with a book.
Pillar Ridge Spring Break
On April 16, 2019, 65 Pillar Ridge residents attended the Spring Break event. The Half Moon Bay Library brought a slime station, 3D printer, books to give away and a Toy Story engineering activity.
Pillar Ridge Shoe Give Away
On January 25, 2019, Pillar Ridge had their new shoe giveaway, with a total of 114 kids receiving a new pair! SPARC partnered with Shoes that Fit, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide children in need new athletic shoes to attend school with dignity and joy, prepared to learn, play and thrive. In addition to the new shoe giveaway, the community also had baby clothes donated for all residents to choose from.
Pillar Ridge Halloween
14 parents and 32 children attended this year’s Halloween event in Pillar Ridge. The kids decorated pumpkins, painted glow in the dark glass jar globes and made monster cookies. There was a DJ called, “The Singing Lizard”, perform music and Halloween tunes that engaged the children for a frightful time. During intermission, the police gave a presentation on Halloween safety, handed out stickers and made crafts with the kids.
Rancho Del Sol Art Class
On October 10, 2020, Rancho Del Sol kids enjoyed a Saturday morning art class. A total of 10 kids attended the program, and painted a Halloween themed cat.
Rancho Del Sol Holiday Event
On December 17, 2019, Rancho Del Sol had their Holiday Event. 50 kids and 20 adults attended the event this year. Eight Yucaipa High Schoolers volunteered and were an amazing help. Each volunteer interacted with the kids, took over craft stations, and helped each child pick out a gift. The event had four activity stations including cookie decorating, card and gift bag decorating, ornament decorating and a hot cocoa creation packet. The kids were able to take photos with Santa and receive their own gifts.
Rancho Del Sol Fire Alarm Safety
On November 5, 2019, 140 smoke alarms were installed at Rancho Del Sol by 38 volunteers. Many homes did not have a single working smoke alarm, each of which was replaced. The volunteers included individuals from the Red Cross and the City of Yucaipa.
Rancho Del Sol Halloween Fun
On October 29, 2019, Rancho Del Sol had their Halloween Event. 35 children and nine parents attended this fun event! Laura from the center for Oral Health gave a presentation on oral hygiene and two children and one mom received free screenings and oral health kits. After, the children decorated pumpkins and glow in the dark glass jars with paint, stickers and markers.
Rancho Del Sol Back to School Event
On July 27, 2019, Rancho Del Sol had their Back to School event. Every child who attended received a backpack filled with school supplies and two books. Two tablets were raffled off and 12 received student packages. A total of 45 children and 10 parents attended.
Rancho Del Sol 4th of July Event
On June 28, 2019, 30 children enjoyed lunch which was provided by the Yucaipa School District as well as a dessert of a 4th of July themed skewer. The kids made their own skewers using raspberries, blueberries, and mini marshmallows. They then made an American flag craft out of popsicle sticks and a firework craft using paper towel rolls. The kids broke into three teams and they competed against each other at four stations.
Rancho Feliz Christmas Distribution
On December 11, 2020, SPARC created a craft and treat bag distribution for the kids of Rancho Feliz. A total of 30 bags were given out to children in the park.
Rancho Feliz Adopt a Senior
On December 11, 2020, SPARC wrapped and delivered 13 gifts for Rancho Feliz seniors. All gifts were custom ordered by the SPARC team to ensure each resident received something special for the holidays.
Rancho Feliz Halloween Event
On November 5, 2019, 86 residents attended the Rancho Feliz Halloween event. All the residents enjoyed cotton candy, trick or treating bags that they were able to fill with candy. There was a Magic Show that used optical illusions to provide entertainment and mind tricks. After the show concluded, 500 residents took advantage of the taco truck.
Rancho Feliz Holiday Event
On Deceber 17, 2018, Rancho Feliz had 135 residents attend the holiday party. The kids had a great time decorating cookies, taking pictures with Santa and receiving a new toy.
Rancho Feliz Back to School Event
August 18, 2018, Rancho Feliz had their Back to School event. 65 kids and 20 parents attended the program. Each child was able to interact with the Museum of Discovery stations, some of which were making teepees, building fort castles out of boxes, creation with packing peanuts, arts and other various crafts. SPARC handed out supplies and books, followed by raffling off two tablets and five grad packages.
Rancho Feliz Bike Rodeo
There were a total 25 kids and 10 adults that attended this year’s bike rodeo. 14 helmets were given to the children and 10 bikes were raffled off. All the children had the helmets fitted, their bikes repaired by the Bicycle Repair of Sonoma, made bike licenses, rode the safety course and enjoyed lunch.
Getting Prepared at Rancho Feliz
The Red Cross was kind enough to come out and provide 50 homes with free smoke alarm installations. Residents were also provided a fire escape plan since it is so important for the residents to understand what to do in case of a fire. The community came out and helped as well; we had volunteers from The Rohnert Park Fire Department and Carmax on hand to help with this important and informative event.
Rancho Vallecitos Tax Program
On March 2, 2021, Rancho Vallecitos participated in a tax program from Interfaith Community Services. A total of 32 residents benefited from this program. Interfaith provided both in person and drop off assistance for the residents.
Rancho Vallecitos Tai Chi Program
On September 9, 2020, Rancho Vallecitos launched a new exercise program. Tai Chi classes are being taught by a Kaiser Permanente volunteer. Each class allows ten residents to continue our COVID-19 safety protocol. Tai Chi classes are being held once a week for residents.
Rancho Vallecitos Art Classes
On September 1, 2020, Rancho Vallecitos began a new art program. Ten residents attended the class, each practicing social distancing. The art program is being taught by two Rancho Vallecitos residents. Classes are being held once a month.
Rancho Vallecitos Summer Break Shave Ice
On May 26, 2020, Rancho Vallecitos residents enjoyed an authentic Hawaiian shave ice truck. The event promoted mental health and socialization. 45 residents attended, each practiced social distancing.
Rancho Vallecitos Chair Yoga Launch
On December 11, 2018, yoga classes launched at Rancho Vallecitos and will take place on a weekly basis. 30 residents attended the start of these classes.
Rancho Vallecitos Presentation of The Whole Kit and Caboodle
On December 6, 2018, SPARC launched a series of monthly workshops that are set to provide a creative outlet to residents. This workshop features author, Mark Carlson, who presented on the story behind idioms and phrases. 35 residents attended the launch.
Rancho Vallecitos Smartphone Trainings
On November 27, 2018, SPARC partnered with CTAP to provide iPhone and Android technology classes. 12 residents attended the class where they learned how to send text messages, connect to Bluetooth, utilize the magnifying glass app and much more.
Rancho Vallecitos Art Class Launch
On October 23, 2018, SPARC collaborated with residents of the park who were willing to volunteer their time teaching art classes. This class launched with 25 residents who painted a pumpkin truck on a canvas. The classes will be taught by resident volunteers on a monthly basis.
Rancho Vallecitos Wills and Estate Workshop
On October 16, 2018, 27 residents attended the lunch and learn seminar. A lawyer, from Elder Law in San Diego gave a presentation that addressed the importance of a health directives; married, widowed and divorced claim benefits; HIPPA rules and reviewed a resident's current trust documents.
Habitat for Humanity helps Sahara Resident
On January 26, 2019, 10 individuals with Habitat for Humanity of the Coachella Valley volunteered at Sahara Mobile Home Park and made a huge difference in one senior's life. Her home was in need of repairs and these volunteers graciously donated their time to remove debris and paint.
Sahara Band and Bingo
On April 9, 2021, SPARC hosted Band and Bingo at Sahara. A total of 25 residents participated while listening to Tony Merlo, a saxophone musician. SPARC handed out bingo prizes to four Sahara winners at the end of the event.
Sahara Red Cross Preparedness Seminar
On December 10, 2018, 50 residents attended Sahara's Resident Association Meeting. Following the meeting, Sahara had their Red Cross Preparedness Seminar. Gerald Winkel, Red Cross Preparedness Manager, spoke to the residents about the importance of emergency kits and covered the three major disasters that can affect Palm Springs.
Hear USA lunch and learn at the Sahara Community
On May 9, 2018, 22 residents attended the Hear USA lunch and learn at the Sahara community. They discussed hearing loss, how to effectively use hearing aids, how to look out for signs of hearing loss and specifics on testing for hearing loss. There was also a representative from CaptionCall that discussed the ADA phone program for those who are hard of hearing and how they could obtain a free phone if they qualify.
Five residents did a preliminary hearing screening in the clubhouse and 10 more made appointments at Hear USA’s Palm Desert location so they can have the extensive, full hour assessment.
Sahara Red Cross Sound the Alarm Event
Sahara had their Sound the Alarm Event with the Red Cross. 65 volunteers came out and installed 166 free smoke alarms. Some of the volunteers were employees from Arrowhead Water, Lions Club, Wells Fargo and there were City Council Members in attendance as well.
San Juan Earth Day
On April 15, 2021, San Juan Mobile Estates held an Earth Day program for 19 children. SPARC partnered with Ocean Institute who provided a fun and educational program. The children learned about watershed, tide pools and basic information about sea turtles. After the presentation, each child made their own sea turtle out of craft materials. At the end of the event, SPARC raffled off two family memberships to the Ocean Institute.
San Juan Kids Innovation Event
On March 27, 2021, San Juan had a Kids Innovation Event. SPARC partnered with OC Animal Allies, a local non-profit organization who brought two dogs to present on. They covered how to care for your dog, fun facts, what to do if you encounter a wild dog, and how to approach them. SPARC also partnered with Prehistoric Parties, which featured 13 animals of the reptile and amphibian species. The children learned about a variety of snakes, lizards, toads and tortoises. A total of 28 children and 10 parents attended the event.
San Juan Art Class
On October 24, 2020, San Juan Mobile Estates had an art class. A total of 15 kids attended, and created a Frankenstein clay figure.
San Juan Science Experience
On September 19, 2020, 14 students of San Juan Mobile Estates attended the SPARC Kids Innovation Program. Bionerds, a local organization attended the event and educated the kids on the wonders of DNA. SPARC safety bags and snacks were provided to everyone who attended.
San Juan Food Pantry Program
On April 7, 2020, San Juan launched a new pantry program. The program is an open pantry stocked for those in need to obtain non perishable food as it becomes available.
Smoke Detector Installation
75 Red Cross volunteers, including several high schools and the OC Fire Authority, installed free smoke alarms and offered disaster preparedness information to San Juan Mobile Estate residents.
San Juan Back to School
On July 28, 2018, San Juan had their Back to School Event. 27 kids and 12 parents attended. Lynne Kaplan and four volunteers from Urban Arts OC gave a drawing and art lesson to the kids. After, everyone was able to choose from a variety of animals to paint on a canvas; all of the supplies were donated. Each child received a backpack filled with school supplies and four books to take home with them. One tablet was raffled off.
Tropics Landscape Seminar
On March 20, 2022, SPARC partnered with Alameda County Master Gardeners to provide a landscape seminar to Tropics residents. The organization focused on native plants to Union City and how to maintain are. A total of 27 residents attended this event.
Tropics Floral Class
On July 9, 2021, Tropics seniors received a floral arrangement class hosted by Convergence Church of Fremont. Donations were provided by Trader Joe's and the volunteers helped guide our seniors and provided the remaining materials to make the class a success. A total of 15 residents participated in the class.
Tropics Adopt a Senior
On December 10, 2020, SPARC wrapped and delivered 35 gifts for the seniors that were adopted at Tropics. All gifts were custom ordered by the SPARC team to ensure each resident received something special.
Tropics Art Class
On October 15, 2020, Tropics had an art class for the senior residents. A total of 6 residents attended the class, each painting a fall themed canvas. SPARC safety bags, water and snacks were provided to the residents.
Tropics COVID-19 Testing
On June 9, 2020, Tropics received COVID-19 testing at the park from Tri City Health Center. They were able to collect tests for a total of 105 Tropics residents.
Tropics Senior Warm Kit and Wellness Seminar
On December 7, 2018, Tropics had their Senior Warm Kit and Wellness Seminar. There were 52 residents that attended and all were able to leave with a warm kit, assembled themselves. The Wellness Seminar included three speakers; Paratransit, Spectrum and Doterra, each providing valuable information for those who attended the program.
Tropics Launches Tai Chi Program
On June 15, 2018, 22 residents attended the Tai Chi launch at Tropics. All the residents had a wonderful response. Fitness items were raffled off, which included water bottles, pedometer, hand weights and a cool-down towel.
Resource Fair at The Tropics
On April 14, 2018, 60 residents and 30 vendors attended this year’s resource fair at Tropics. We had three breakout sessions: Strength and Balance exercise class, Diabetes seminar and Seniors with Technology seminar. Five vendors donated raffle prizes: a treats gift basket, free wills and trust consultation, coffee and mug kit, ceramic vase, environment friendly materials and bags and $50 dollars off rent credit.
Vista de Santa Barbara Safety Semimar
On May 4, 2022, SPARC partnered with Red Cross who spoke of basic earthquake and disaster preparedness. The Red Cross donated a full disaster preparedness kit, which was raffled off at the end of the seminar. Santa Barbara County Fire Department held a CERT Express course. They discussed CRP, fire safety, active shooting, earthquake and flood safety. A total of 32 residents attended.
Vista de Santa Barbara Tech Talk
On May 4th, 2022, SPARC brought Tech Doctors, a local tech repair shop to educate seniors on basic technology skills. The instructor Henri, discussed computer functions and common scams that occur on phones, emails and with pop-ups. After, there was a Q&A session for individual questions from residents. A total of 16 seniors attended.
Vista de Santa Barbara Senior Warm Kit
On November 20, 2020, SPARC held the Senior Warm Kit distribution at Vista de Santa Barbara. A total of 29 residents received a warm kit. To go dinner was provided to all senior residents who registered and attended the event.
Vista de Santa Barbara Red Cross Smoke Alarm
On May 11, 2019, 24 volunteers installed 80 alarms in 31 homes at Vista de Santa Barbara.
Westlake Art Class
On November 12, 2020, SPARC held an art class at Westlake. We had a total of 7 residents attend. Those who attended the class painted a fall themed canvas and were provided snacks and water.
Westlake Red Cross Fire Alarm Event
On January 19, 2020, 77 Westlake homes received a total of 217 new smoke alarms. Volunteers from the Red Cross assisted in installing the new smoke alarms.
Westlake Financial Seminar
On November 21, 2019, Wells Fargo conducted a presentation at Westlake. The presentation was very interactive, including a variety of topics such as having a safety net, paying bills on time, tracking your spending and budgeting.
Westlake Beautification Day
On October 16, 2019, SPARC partnered with Habitat for Humanity to paint a resident's home from Westlake. We had 15 volunteers, including some from Fresno EOC to assist with this project.
Westlake Beautification Day
On June 10, 2019, Westlake received eight volunteers to help with the beautification project. Volunteers included four from California Conservation Corps and four from Hands On. Throughout the day the volunteers were able to complete 20 homes that were on the beautification list.
Westlake Fire Alarm Event
On May 23, 2019, SPARC partnered with Habitat for Humanity and Red Cross to bring smoke alarms to Westlake. Habitat for Humanity delivered 116 smoke alarms to 40 residents. They also handed out over 50 File of Life decals and medical cards to assist first responders in emergencies where time is paramount.
Westlake Beautification Day
On April 16, 2019, a group of 12 volunteers helped at Westlake moving debris from carports to the curb for the haul away service to collect. In the afternoon, 50 volunteers spent another three hours working on 30 homes.
Westlake Alzheimer Presentation
On September 26, 2018, Westlake had an event with Vicki Reinhold from the Alzheimer's Association and Jarrod Sieberg from the DMV. The presentation covered topics including: healthy living for your brain and body tips from the latest research, driver safety and the aging driver, as well as local transportation services.
CPR at Westlake
On July 16, 2018, SPARC held CPR/AED Training at Westlake. Everyone who attended learned when and how to properly use an AED, CPR, how they both work in regards to our bodies and how to respond to an emergency while waiting for emergency services. The residents even had the opportunity to practice CPR on a dummy. Everyone that attended left with a little note card describing signs of when CPR is needed and pictures of the steps to take.
The Woods Food Program
On May 19, 2020, The Woods community received a temporary food program provided by the City of Clovis. The city is providing meals once a week to those in need. 80 residents are currently taking part in the new program.
The Woods Art Class
On November 11, 2020, SPARC held an art class at The Woods. We had a total of 15 residents attend. Each resident painted a fall themed canvas. Snacks and water were provided to every resident that attended.
The Woods Holiday Social
On November 14, 2019, The Woods community had a holiday social, including a presentation focusing on scams and identity theft. Speakers from the Contractors State License Board, CA State Department of Insurance and Senior Medical Patrol each attended. They also provided resources for our residents to take home in addition to receiving a warm kit. Each warm kit had a blanket, gloves, beanie, scarf and fuzzy socks to be prepared for the winter.
The Woods Senior Resource Fair
On October 16, 2019, The Woods had their Senior Resource Fair including 21 vendors and 55 residents. The residents were able to go around each booth and collect information from all vendors. We had UCSF Alzheimer's & Memory Center, Health Collaborative, Fresno Police Department, Red Cross and many more organizations providing valuable information. To complete the event, six organizations donated items that were raffled off and SPARC raffled $50 off rent credit.
The Woods Food Bank
On October 3, 2019, 115 bags of food were distributed to residents at The Woods. About 46 bags were delivered to spaces for residents unable to make it to pick up their food.
The Woods Healthy Living Event
On August 21, 2019, The Woods had their event with Vicki Reinhold from the Alzheimer's Association and Jarrod Sieberg from the DMV. The presentation covered topics including; healthy living for your brain and body and tips from the latest research, driver safety and the aging driver, as well as local transportation services. Lunch was served to the 28 attendees.
The Woods Red Cross Smoke Alarm Event
On July 7, 2019, 22 Red Cross volunteers installed 191 smoke detectors in 60 homes. One resident had four non-working smoke detectors in her home, each has now been replaced.
The Woods Launches Matter of Balance Program
On May 7, 2019, The Woods had the launch of the Matter of Balance program. All 14 slots were quickly filled. Since there was such great interest in the class we are planning on launching a second program directly after the first one finishes. The first two classes are introduction and discussion classes, exercises will begin the third week.
The Woods Beautification Day
On April 16, 2019, The Woods had 44 volunteers from the community spend 12 hours working on seven homes, where they painted and assisted with yard work and basic cleaning.