Tat courage impacted Svetka’s mother, who also remained steadfast in her faith even during KGB interrogation. Tis inspired Svetka to write a book and learn about the lives of others. Tus, “Te Ones Who Dared” podcast was born, as a mission to provide people with an opportunity to share their wisdom and stories of courage.


“I thought, ‘Wouldn’t it be cool to go into a retirement community and give seniors a voice to share their life experiences?’” Svetka said.


Janice Hess, Life Enrichment Coordinator at Landis Homes, helped recruit some of the residents to be interviewed. Although most residents volunteered, several needed a small nudge to encourage them with this unique invitation.


Nine residents volunteered and the interviews were conducted in half-hour time slots.


As they shared pieces of their past, some of their regrets and some of their greatest joys, a few of the residents became emotional. Reflecting on their lives in such a profound and intimate way was a special and sacred time for both the residents and for Svetka.


“Te entire experience was a huge success,” Janice said. “For the residents, there was something about telling their stories that honored them. It was significant. I think they all enjoyed the process.”


To celebrate the release of the podcast and the YouTube summary video, Svetka had an idea. “I thought, ‘What if we throw a red-carpet award event and make these people feel like celebrities?’” she said. “So, I made an Instagram post, asking for volunteers in various roles, and I was shocked by the response. Some responded with ‘wish we could be there, but can we donate money for décor?’ Some drove over an hour to volunteer."


Te watch party was a special night for the residents, all of whom enjoyed food, fellowship, and photos. “Te residents who participated were beautifully recognized,” Janice said. “Te experience fostered a lot of joy and community. People have learned to know each other better through the podcast.”


“I loved how all of the residents felt so celebrated for sharing their stories,” Svetka said. “As I listened to their interviews, I thought, ‘Tis is so inspiring. What can we take away from these stories?’”


Te wisdom of these residents is timeless and their stories are spellbinding. Tis meaningful experience ignited a sense of community between the participants and fostered a deep sense of joy. It was a poignant, powerful reminder that our stories will endure. Tey should be passed down and used to inspire those who follow after us.


SCAN THESE QR CODES TO WATCH AND LISTEN!


Enriching


Lives, Together


“Wouldn’t it be cool to go into a retirement community


and give seniors a voice to share their life experiences?”


Video compilation of the Landis Homes resident stories!


Listen to Svetka’s podcast!


Landis.org | FLOURISH | Summer 2023 • 17


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