Grill, games and giving at Cedar Crossing

Aspira Cedar Crossing Retirement Living’s team gathers at their July 16 fundraiser barbecue day in Simcoe.

Alex Hunt

Advocate Correspondent

Barbecue fundraiser unites Simcoe for senior support

A sunny day, a sizzling barbecue and a strong sense of community defined Aspira Cedar Crossing Retirement Living’s July 16 fundraiser.

The community gathered on the grounds of Aspira Cedar Crossing Retirement Living at 395 Cedar Street in Simcoe for a barbecue lunch with the residents. Most importantly, it was a day of social interaction, connection and fundraising. 

“All proceeds raised from the community barbeque went directly to the Senior Support Services office,” said Brieann Gumbley, resident engagement manager at Aspira Cedar Crossing Retirement Living. “We do a lot of community events. We just thought barbecues go well with the summertime. We invite the locals to interact with our residents and it’s all for a good cause.” 

The barbecue had plenty of hamburgers, cold beverages and hands-on games like cornhole and ladder ball. Gumbley said that earlier in the summer, Cedar Crossing launched a week-long seniors day camp which focused on different daily themes such as gardening, yoga, lemonade social and more. 

“Events like this bring people out here so they can interact with our community. We had a great turnout at the barbecue and had a lot of donations. We just ask that people donate what they can and if they can’t then that’s fine, we welcome everybody,” said Gumbley.

For the residents and locals, this barbecue acts as a social event for everyone. We all live in a small town, and I think it’s nice to be involved and get to know the people around us.”

For community events, Gumbley said that donations are welcome but not expected. Anyone can attend, meet residents, share stories, and learn more about the values of community spirit that define the organization and its mission.

Gumbley says that what makes Cedar Crossing stand out is that it builds a sense of family within the community. 

“I truly value the relationships that I have made with some of the residents. I spend all my days with them, at every activity, organizing the events and it’s just wonderful,” said Gumbley. “We have a significant number of residents that have dementia and being constant in their day allows them to remember me which is very touching.” 

The retirement home is no stranger when it comes to hosting events for its residents and the community. Gumbley says that the staff like to get the seniors moving and having fun and encourages the residents to join in the music nights, spring galas, and other engaging occasions. 

With laughter, grilled meals and generous hearts, Aspira Cedar Crossing Retirement Living embodied its mission to build community care. As residents and locals mingled, the event showcased the retirement home’s ongoing dedication to connection, compassion and creating meaningful moments through one gathering, one story, and one smile at a time.