Discovering Hidden Passions Through Creative Expression
When John “Jack” Gardner moved into Sunrise of Granite Run in March 2025, he didn’t expect to uncover a passion that had lived inside him since childhood. He joined an art session one afternoon, picked up a paintbrush—and everything changed.
“It’s [art] actually something I’ve always wanted to do since I was a child, [but] I was never given the chance,” Gardner said.
As he painted, memories surfaced of sketching during his childhood.
“I always tinkered with drawing as a youngster but never gave it a great deal of thought,” he said. “I used to [secretly] work in my father’s workshop in the basement.”
Instead of following along with the instructor at Sunrise, Gardner let instinct guide him.
“When you [Sunrise] gave me a paintbrush, everyone else was painting [along] with the instructor, but I followed my own feeling,” he said. “I happen[ed] to have a vase in front of me, so I painted it.”
The result was a rediscovered identity he had tucked away for decades.
“I always knew I was an artist,” Gardner said. “I just couldn’t let anyone know. I feel relieved [everyone now knows].”
Gardner soon became known for his signature style and the small illustration of a hat he added to each piece—his lighthearted trademark as “Jack and his hats.” What began as a single art class became a deeply meaningful chapter in his life, one that brought him joy, purpose, and pride every day.
Gardner has since passed away, and our Sunrise family continues to remember him with great affection. His artwork still brings smiles to those who knew him, and his story remains a beautiful reminder that it’s never too late to discover a dream—and to share it boldly.
This journey reflects creativity rising: a lifelong passion finally given space to bloom, and a legacy that continues to inspire.
Finding Joy in Trying New Things and Embracing Adventure
At Sunrise of Redmond, activities and volunteer coordinator (AVC) Megan Suddaby is known for her creativity—and for encouraging residents to try things they never thought they’d do. Her most ambitious idea began after a community book club discussion inspired her to start a new club centered on adventure, curiosity, and saying “yes” to new experiences.
A year ago, Suddaby launched the Old But Not Dead Yet Club. They meet monthly for a mystery outing—no one knows where they’re going until they arrive. From splatter painting and kayaking to immersive art experiences and trying treats like frozen yogurt cubes and taiyaki ice cream, residents embrace each adventure wholeheartedly.
“These outings give residents the opportunity to try things they may have never imagined having the chance to do, gently pushing them beyond their comfort zones and into moments of discovery and fun,” Suddaby said.
Residents return eager to retell every moment to friends and family, proudly recounting what they’ve tried and what they’ve accomplished.
Suddaby believes these opportunities aren’t just fun—they’re essential.
“Learning new skills helps seniors stay mentally active, improves mood, strengthens social connections, and prepares them to navigate the changes that come with aging,” she said.
She sees this especially in one resident who arrived at the community with a lifelong history of mental health challenges, social isolation, and a significant loss of connection. She was understandably nervous and timid, and she rarely left the comfort of our room. Nonetheless, Sunrise team members remained persistent and continues to gently invite, encourage, and support her, allowing them to build a bridge of trust.
“Today, she is one of our activity MVPs and eagerly participates in a wide variety of programs,” Suddaby said. “She has discovered a love for trying new things, including acrylic painting, flower arranging, and group games.”
These experiences helped the resident build meaningful friendships and rediscover a sense of belonging. Seeing her blossom into her own has been incredibly rewarding for the team.
“My favorite part of my job is seeing the joy we bring to the residents and witnessing how meaningful engagement in activities positively impacts their lives,” Suddaby said.
Her approach is simple yet powerful: learn about each person before they arrive, make space for what they love, and gently nudge them toward something new.
This is adventure rising—finding joy through curiosity, courage, and connection.
Lifelong Learning That Strengthens Memory and Community
At Sunrise of Randolph, AVC Natalie Muller wanted to introduce something immersive, challenging, and joyfully social—so she launched a Spanish language program.
What began as a single idea has grown into a thriving class of 15 residents, each practicing vocabulary, writing simple sentences, and proudly introducing themselves in Spanish.
“The energy in the room is incredible—there’s so much laughing, sharing, and genuine excitement as they practice,” Muller said. “This program is a fantastic way to create new brain connections and keep residents mentally active, almost like being in school.”
Residents now complete homework—willingly—and rediscover the excitement of being back in a classroom. Muller describes the program as one that promotes mental stimulation, social engagement, cultural engagement, and community building.
To elevate the experience, she invited a professional Spanish teacher from their retirement community to give residents a special introduction. The teacher loved it so much she’s now part of the program.
This initiative has shown residents and team members just how rewarding lifelong learning for seniors can be. This program shows growth rising—expanding the mind, embracing challenge, strengthening memory, and discovering joy in the unfamiliar.
Intergenerational Connections That Build Confidence
Sunrise of Old Tappan has developed a reputation for standout intergenerational programming—and its newest partnership is one that captured community and media attention.
The community recently partnered with Aim for Unity, an organization founded by 16-year-old Samuel Kim, who started the program after his family’s experience with dementia. His goal caught the eye of News 12 New Jersey: raising brain health awareness through archery with a fun, inclusive, and beginner-friendly approach.
Residents received hands-on coaching from Kim and his peers, who brought in adaptive equipment designed to help older adults safely and confidently enjoy archery.
Under AVC Melissa Scheer, intergenerational activities like this have flourished, offering residents the energy, fun, and fresh perspectives that only younger generations can bring.
At Sunrise of Old Tappan, this shows community rising—finding connection across generations and discovering that everyone, at any age, has something valuable to give.
Sunrise Is Where Your Rise Begins
From painting and paddling kayaks to language learning and intergenerational archery sessions, these stories share a single truth: potential doesn’t fade with age—it rises. Where others might see sunset, we still believe in the promise of dawn at Sunrise. For 45 years, our team members have been helping residents step into transformative moments through vibrant programming that sparks creativity, confidence, and joy—and they’re not stopping now.
To learn more about the experiences and opportunities available at Sunrise, we invite you to find a Sunrise Senior Living community near you. Our team members are ready to support you or your loved one and champion your rise.