Life Care Center of Valparaiso hosts a ‘spook-tacular’ Trunk-or-Treat event

Those who visited the Life Care Center of Valparaiso on Thursday, October 23, were in for a scary good time during its annual Trunk-or-Treat event. The event brought the nursing and rehabilitation home’s residents, staff, loved ones, and the local community together to enjoy sweet treats and quality camaraderie in honor of the upcoming holiday.

The Trunk-or-Treat is always a favorite for the Life Care Center of Valparaiso team. It provides a switch-up from the typical day-to-day activities, which are mostly limited to inside the facility. Events like the Trunk-or-Treat allow everyone to see more of the community itself while letting them know its doors are always open to those who need a little extra care.

“The community just comes together and has so much fun,” said Angela “Angie” Monahan, director of business development. “Honestly, my favorite part of this event is the smile that everyone has.”

Centered around a mad scientist theme this year, the Trunk-or-Treat welcomed dozens of vehicles decked out and ready to spread some Halloween cheer to others. This included Kaela McDaniel, care coordinator for First Light Home Care, who loved being able to come out for the event.

“We just want to show the community that we’re always here to support,” said McDaniel. “Getting to see all the kids and residents come out and being able to enjoy time with them has been great.”

Heather Ligda, care liaison, also enjoys supporting the Life Care Center of Valparaiso community at its Trunk-or-Treat event.

“With me beginning a career at home, I really enjoy being a part of the community and taking part in all the community events,” said Ligda. “This will be my first trunk-or-treat that I’ve ever done, and getting to relive the trick-or-treat experience like a kid has been great.“

The Trunk-or-Treat also proved to be a hit with the participants and attendees. From packing their bags to the brim with candy to learning more about the Life Care Center of Valparaiso and all its services, the atmosphere was certainly electric at Thursday’s event.

“What they do here for the kids in the community is just outstanding, and I love being part of it.” said Gail Kritenbrink, licensed practical nurse. “My favorite part of this event has been being able to make memories with my best friend. She is the brains behind the operation.”

Nothing brings a community together like some good old-fashioned fun leading into the upcoming holiday season. Monahan loves that she and the team are able to provide this year after year, and she hopes the joy it creates can continue on for many more to come. 

“It means the world to us because we want people to know that we are here for the community, and we want to be a staple here,” said Monahan. “We’ve been a staple here since the early ‘80s, and we’re not going to leave.”

Visit lcca.com/locations/in/valparaiso/ to learn more about the Life Care Center of Valparaiso and the resources and services available.