Here's How Living in an Intergenerational Community has Impacted Brandon

The Nathalie Salmon House Good Life Senior Residences is preparing to say goodbye to long time cook, and former resident assistant Brandon Melby. Brandon, his partner Kara (former resident assistant turned Good Life Senior Residences coordinator of the Pat Crowley House), and their two children Ethan (age 4) and Rayna (4 months) have been living in one of the four family apartments in the Nathalie Salmon House for the past 5 years.

Brandon and his family have become an integral part of our Good Life family. 

Thom, a longtime resident of the Good Life Senior Residences has teased Brandon that he will be moving into the family’s new home since he does not want to part with one of his favorite neighbors. Marijo has enjoyed watching Ethan grow into “a polite, sweet, and smart kid, I really love spending time with him.” 

I was able to sit down with Brandon to reflect on his time at H.O.M.E. before he and his family move on to their next adventure.

What will you miss the most?

The community and family environment. I will miss Mable’s smile when she sees Ethan and Rayna and the connections that we have made within the community.

What have you learned?

The residents have taught me a lot about patience. Sometimes because they are patient with me, and sometimes because I need to be more patient with them. I think that learning patience has made me a better dad.

What have you liked the most about your job?

I’ve been able to make life long connections in our intergenerational community. I will really miss seeing everyone, but I know that we’ll keep in touch, they’re all Facebook friends with me. 

What do you think Ethan has learned?

Growing up with such a diverse community Ethan has learned to be comfortable with people of every age and ability. He’s learned to accept people as they are.

What is your favorite memory?

Honestly, I have really enjoyed doing the BBQ’s for the residents and helping to plan birthday parties and dinners. Also, we went to the Twins/Sox game a couple weeks ago. The Twins won, so it was a really great day.

Residents of the Good Life Senior Residences had some fond memories to share about Brandon as well:

According to Dave: "He is such a giving guy, it’s been great to see him every day. Oh, and he’s a good cook too."

Claudette says "I love everything about Brandon! Especially that meatloaf he made last night!"

Debbie told us "I’ll really miss Brandon’s personality, he knows us so well and he makes sure to do things that we will like. Last week I wasn’t feeling great and Brandon made tomato soup and grilled cheese because he knew it would make me feel better. Brandon really cares about us, he knows what we like and he tries to make us all happy. He really thinks about us when he cooks."

Brandon has exemplified what it means to be part of a community. Residents have been made to feel seen, special, and cared for when interacting with Brandon, he even made a tradition of preparing a resident’s favorite meal and dessert for their birthday. Understanding what it means to be a good neighbor and friend has helped Brandon and his family to create deep bonds within the H.O.M.E. community, and makes it all the harder to say goodbye. Everyone at H.O.M.E. wishes the Melby-Wackrow family all the best on their new adventure!

Want to cook like Brandon? Here’s one of our resident’s favorite lunch dishes!

Brandon’s Submarine Sandwiches

• Fresh French bread
• Deli meat of choice (Brandon uses roast beef, ham, and turkey)
• Sliced Tomatoes
• Sliced Onions
• Lettuce
• Cheese
• Mayo
• Oil
• Salt, Pepper, and Italian Seasoning

Cut your bread in half, length wise. Spread the mayonnaise, salt & pepper, seasoning, and oil on the bread. Assemble the lunch meat, cheese and veggies on the bread. Slice the sandwiches into 4 pieces and enjoy!

 

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Brandon began his career at H.O.M.E. as a resident assistant. If you are interested in leaning more about becoming a Resident Assistant and joining the H.O.M.E. family, fill out a form by clicking the button below.

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