At Sienna Senior Living, we believe that living with meaning and purpose is essential to residents’ happiness and well-being. That belief is at the heart of the Gems in Our Community program, which celebrates and supports residents who want to make a difference by sharing their time, talents, and passions.
Whether it’s welcoming new residents, helping with daily tasks, or sharing a song that brings back beautiful memories, Gems are residents who give their community something truly special—themselves.
What is the Gems in Our Community Program?
Gems in Our Community is a resident-led volunteer initiative that encourages meaningful engagement and active participation in daily life at their residence. It’s about supporting residents to do what they love—brightening someone’s day, lending a helping hand, or simply making their community feel more like home.
From tour guides to gardeners, music-makers to meal helpers, every Gem plays a unique role. What unites them is their generosity of spirit and the positive impact they have on fellow residents and team members.
To spotlight their contributions, participating residents are recognized with special Gems in Our Community t-shirts and name tags—symbols of appreciation for their role in making Sienna communities shine a little brighter.
Meet a Few of Our Incredible Gems
Monty
With his playlist and warm smile, Monty brings the community to life through music. “I play the music, and they come—it doesn’t matter what type of music it is. It does something to me inside,” he says. “Music can change your mood in two ticks. It brings out memories.” Monty’s sessions are a source of entertainment, movement and foster moments of emotional connection.
Terry
Terry helps in the laundry room every weekday—and she loves it. A former volunteer, she finds joy in the routine and a sense of purpose in her contribution. “It’s something to look forward to,” she says. Her quiet dedication speaks volumes about the difference one person can make simply by showing up and helping out.
Angiolina
Angiolina brings heart and a sense of community to everything she does. She’s best known for making birthday cards. On each resident’s special day, she delivers the card, which makes a world of difference to that person. “We celebrate and make happy memories,” she says. “It brings the community closer.”
Jagjit
A lifelong cook, Jagjit shares her culture and passion for food by preparing traditional Indian meals with fellow residents. “Every month we cook together. I want to feed everybody,” she says. For her, cooking is about bringing people together, and her warm meals do exactly that.
The Power of Resident-Led Connections
Residents who participate in the Gems program report a stronger sense of daily fulfillment, and joy. By leading with what matters most to them, our Gems foster a culture of belonging and community spirit. They show us that age is no barrier to making an impact and that a vibrant, engaged life is possible at any stage.
