Susan Maxwell
with Frasier Meadows Health Care Center

On the table in front of each resident sat a bright red cherry tartlet topped with a dollop of whipped cream. They had just made it, each of them taking some part in the preparation. They inched their wheelchairs closer and tasted. Their smiles showed that it was a hit.

"How about we try leaping lizard cookies next time," said Susan Maxwell who has guided this weekly process at Frasier Meadows Health Care Center for over three years. There were some nods of approval and one woman held up her hands crossed at the wrists. "Or, how about hot cross buns," said the woman across from her, smiling at the symbolism.

Each week up to 14 residents will attend Maxwell's meeting discussing food preparation and developing a sense of community as they bring back their joy of cooking. They often bring their own recipes saved from the days when they cooked for their families.

After the group chooses a recipe, Maxwell shops for the ingredients and leads them in the food preparation each week. "These folks are very honest," she said, laughing, "if it doesn't taste just right, they have no reluctance in saying, 'this is awful.' And we go back and try again."

Maxwell started volunteering at Frasier Meadows when her mother entered a similar facility in Cincinnati. "In a way, it was like doing something for my own Mom," she said.
Maxwell speaks highly of the staff at Frasier Meadows and she really has a heart for the residents. "These people have long histories and wonderful stories to tell and I love listening to them. I know it sounds kind of old fashioned to say it, but volunteering here is such a wonderful gift…and especially to the volunteer."

For information about volunteering with Frasier Meadows Health Care Center or other agencies, call the Volunteer Connection at 303-444-4904.