Western Winds

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Courtney Richardson
  • 924th Fighter Group Public Affairs
TUCSON, Ariz. --  Members of the 924th Fighter Group provided some extra cheer when they hosted a holiday party for the 95 residents of Western Winds Apartments here, Dec 3.

Western Winds Apartments is a low-income, independent senior living community. The community provides a safe, low-maintenance lifestyle, allowing residents to focus on socializing and engaging in recreational activities.

MSgt Kimberly Beecher, 924th training manager, coordinated the event based on experiences from her previous duty station.

“I was a volunteer firefighter and when we would go to calls for the elderly we kept notes of what they needed like lifts and stuff. At Christmas time we held fundraisers and spent the money on them getting them what they needed,” said Beecher, “they seem to be forgotten.”

Beecher began working with Dorrie Sabot, Western Winds property manager, back in October.

“It feels absolutely wonderful that my residents are getting this kind of attention,” said Sabot. “My tenets are all low-income so there are a lot of things that they can’t afford and do, so anytime someone is willing to donate and help them it fills our hearts big time.”

Sabot sat down with each resident and helped them determine three things that they would like from the Airmen. She then returned the information to Beecher who placed it on a tree in the squadron for anyone to come, pick and fulfill. The request ranged from socks to a tablet.

“If they wanted to purchase all three they could or not and some bought gift cards so the resident could shop for themselves, giving them that independence,” said Beecher. “It was all up to the Airmen about what they can afford and the response has been outrageous.”

To present the residents with their gifts, Sabot and Beecher decided to make it holiday party style. They gathered the residents in the community room and the Airmen served treats and warm apple cider before handing out their wrapped gifts.

Many of the residents were in shock that the Airmen didn’t forget about them.

“I’ve been here for 9 ½ years and this is the first time anything like this has ever happened for us,” said Jane Au, Western Winds resident. “We’ve entered our second childhood, we are so very excited.”

In addition to the gifts, the unit also collected 216 pounds of aluminum cans, raising $96 dollars to purchase bingo prizes and recreational activities for the residents.