Sunny Hill boasts newly renovated courtyard

     JOLIET – Sunny Hill Nursing Home residents and their guests are enjoying the outdoors in a newly renovated courtyard complete with new outdoor furniture, raised garden beds and a flagpole. 

     It is a place where residents will be able to “continue their love” of the outdoors, as well as a gathering place, said Administrator Karen Sorbero.

      “The renovation of this courtyard is the final phase of creating three beautiful, peaceful, safe and accessible outdoor areas for Sunny Hill residents to enjoy and continue their love of nature and gardening.”
     In a ceremony that included residents, veterans, staff and local leaders, Sunny Hill Nursing Home of Will County, 421 Doris Ave., dedicated the outdoor space on Friday, June 13.

     Will County Executive Larry Walsh noted as he addressed those gathered, “What a great day the Lord has given us.”

     Walsh talked about the Mother’s Day weekend event held at the county-owned facility, at which there was music and dancing. He complimented the staff, volunteers like the American Legion Post 1080 Color Guard, and “the people who helped raise the money” to pay for the courtyard work.

     “…Sunny Hill is the finest nursing home in the state of Illinois.”

     Illinois Sen. Pat McGuire pointed out that the ceremony “really reflected the spirit of Sunny Hill,” with residents participating.

     Residents Rita Orzechowski and Florence Pazulinec led the crowd gathered in singing The Star Spangled Banner and It’s a Grand Old Flag. Rose Cessario and Marilyn McManimen gave patriotic readings, including one written by the Sunny Hill poetry club.

     Sunny Hill’s 17 veteran residents were recognized.

     The $102,000 project was paid for by The Friends of Sunny Hill, Inc., a volunteer organization dedicated to providing a higher quality of life for residents.

     “We are grateful to the Friends of Sunny Hill and our community donors for their support and commitment to the residents of Sunny Hill and Will County,” said Sorbero.

      The administrator and founder of The Friends of Sunny Hill, Inc., said she didn’t know what the group would do for Sunny Hill residents next. “We’re waiting for you to tell us what you want.”

     For additional information about Sunny Hill Nursing Home of Will County, go to www.willcountyillinois.com or check it out on Facebook.