Jackson County Medical Care Facility in Jackson, MI joined the Eden Registry on June 24, 2010. This community has divided into four neighborhoods. They have really just begun their Eden Alternative journey in the past year and already have made some amazing strides forward. Between Certified Eden Associate training and an all-day Eden Alternative training, they have introduced the Philosophy and Principles to over half of the care partners. The question, "Would we do it this way at home?" helps to guide their decision making. To promote cooking close to the Elders, all the neighborhoods have crock pots and bread machines they can use to supplement daily meals. They recently added fireplaces to the gathering areas in all the neighborhoods which brought great warmth to the space. The care partners and Elders have had many discussions about how to improve the end-of-life experience for all and they have made a few changes with more to come. The Elders are meeting and creating welcome baskets for new Elders that move in. The team working on this even has a mission statement to guide them. The Elders are involved in planning special holiday events, beautifying the lobby and one Elder is leading a drawing class in the home. Ask them about the Traveling Tavern and Traveling Toolbox. Both are great ideas to reach out and build relationships! If you are lucky, you might arrive during the Cooking Show with David which is held in the main dining room and experience a fun cooking demonstration. The main dining room offers a restaurant style dining experience. They will be moving this experience into the neighborhoods soon. This home has already made some great strides forward on their culture change journey. They still have big dreams to come!