Friday, December 15, 2017

Tis the season at Vincent House

Vincent House Holiday Party

 In the midst of fundraising, winter coming and our daily work, members and staff of Vincent House took time to produce a holiday party on Friday December 8, 2017. A soundtrack of Holiday tunes kept the atmosphere festive. The happy time was captured by many in the photo booth, and a guessing jar filled with bells provided the fun that comes with a friendly competition.

 The awesome Vincent House culinary unit prepared pork sliders, turkey meatballs, a cheese plate, fruit, cookies, and brownies with strawberry crème Santa Claus hats for all to enjoy. There was also a delicious punch and homemade eggnog. A slide show of gifs showcasing the holiday spirit brought a lot of smiles and laughter to the party. The excitement surrounding the holiday gathering was good for everyone’s overall morale.

Members said preparing for the party put them in a good mood. That was evident in the kitchen, a place where everyone seemed to find their way to at some point, while preparations were in full swing. Asked about that special excitement in the kitchen, Sonya H. said, “The kitchen is the heart and soul of a home. Chef Jeannine added, “And we put our heart and soul into our cooking!” Friends and family members along with Vincent House regulars chatted and socialized in the holiday atmosphere and wished each other a merry season. We think it’s fair to say the party was a hit!

Friday, December 1, 2017

Thanksgiving 2017


At Vincent House, our primary focus is supporting mental illness recovery through meaningful work. Through that process, we also build community. As a community, we come together on holidays, providing a place for members, staff and their guests to gather and enjoy the company of others for those special celebrations.

This year, the Vincent House Thanksgiving celebration was held from 10 am until 2 pm, on Thanksgiving Day, with founder Elliott Steele and Janine Santillo, a staff member, hosting. Here, Elliott and other attendees share their thoughts on the gathering:

It was like the old days. Over 40 members and family shared our Thanksgiving meal. Some families
brought sweets and all participated in preparing, serving and enjoying the meal. When it came time to clean up, all worked together, and we finished just after 2 pm. —Elliott 

For me, I love to celebrate Thanksgiving. I’m thankful to have a place that opens its doors to members. It’s a blessing to me to have the opportunity to be here with the people I know, and to meet members and family that are new to me. When someone opens their doors on the holidays, it shows you that they really care. —Sonya H.

Thanksgiving Day lunch with Vincent House… the food and fellowship was wonderful. Vincent House even accommodated my low-carb diet: more turkey, and less other! —Clark