On a surprise visit to the New Vista Society, a support and housing facility for seniors, the B.C. Nurses Union (BCNU) delivered more than 50 bouquets.
Every year in June, the union's head office in Burnaby hosts a barbecue for all staff members, about 100, to have fun and participate in team-building exercises.
For instance, last year, the staff members made bicycles, but this year they decided to do something different.
"This year, because of people trying to be economical, we directed resources from the barbecue for the community, because we are a part of Burnaby, and to incorporate team building exercises and bring fun for the staff and cheer to the community," said Debra McPherson, BCNU president.
So to combine all of those things, instead of building bikes, staff created fabulous flower arrangements in a contest that would get transported to New Vista. The flowers arrived on June 24.
"Staff really got into it," McPherson said. "We were doing something for fun that would provide cheer."
She said the union is proud to be part of the community and is constantly looking for outreach opportunities.
"It was an honour and we took pleasure to provide some cheer for the seniors and New Vista," she added.
New Vista's CEO said the pleasure was all theirs.
"The seniors were very pleased," said Carol Finnie, New Vista Society's chief executive officer. "It makes them feel special."
She said the nurses delivered the bouquets to the society's 236 residents and now the whole area is filled with flowers.
"It's a warm [sentiment] for them to receive flowers and be acknowledged by the outside world," Finnie added.
Finnie said the society has a great working relationship with the BCNU and it supports its nurses.
The New Vista Society was founded in 1943 by Ernest Winch, a Burnaby MLA from 1933 to 1957. Its focus is to provide support and housing for seniors.
For more information visit www.newvista.bc.ca.
