Residents ‘Go for the Gold’ at the Phoebe Berks 2024 Senior Olympics

In the spirit of the 2024 Olympic Summer Games, held July 26-Aug. 11 in Paris, residents of the Phoebe Berks in Wernersville, Pa., put their competitive spirits on display May 31 as they participated in the 2024 Phoebe Berks Senior Olympics. Independent living and personal care residents at Phoebe Berks gathered on the community’s boardwalk to enjoy a variety of fun, physical, and competitive games, backdropped by a beautiful, sunny day.

The Senior Olympics marked the event’s first return since the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The anticipation was through the roof from both staff and residents, who always look forward to this fun-filled event.

Color-coded teams of five residents each were chosen prior to the games, with each team participating in four events. The games included shuffleboard, cornhole, bocce ball, ladder toss, table tennis, a foot race, a putting green challenge, and a throwing contest.

The morning began with an Olympic-style opening ceremony and a parade of athletes, complete with a paper torch and regal music, as each team was welcomed to the Phoebe Berks boardwalk. Volunteers and spectators cheered the residents on.

After a brief welcoming speech, teams broke off for their scheduled events, spaced out in 20-minute intervals. Over the course of the day, the sound of cheering and friendly competition brought smiles to every face.

An award ceremony was held at the conclusion of the games, and awards were given out to the top three performing teams. 

“There was so much excitement,” said Phoebe Major Gifts Officer and event volunteer Erin Dallago. “It gave me a chance to interact with our residents.” Dallago judged the bocce ball competition. “I already can’t wait to go back next year,” she said.

Phoebe Berks — part of Phoebe Ministries, based in Allentown, Pa. — regularly holds special events and activities for residents. Congratulations to all the competitors.