As Engage Life Coordinator at Holiday Fleming Point, Jackie Powley views every opportunity to serve residents as important. But when it comes to honoring residents who served in the armed forces, her commitment runs even deeper.
This spring, Jackie worked tirelessly on a special project to recognize the 24 veterans who call Holiday Fleming Point home. “If there’s any way I can help honor their sacrifice, I will,” she says. “It’s the way I roll. I go big.”
And she did.
A Labor of Love for Memorial Day
In the five weeks leading up to Memorial Day, Jackie poured her energy into creating a meaningful tribute. She designed a new Wall of Appreciation in her community, featuring updated photos of each veteran and details about their time in uniform.
On Memorial Day, residents gathered for the wall’s official unveiling and a heartfelt pinning ceremony. It was a celebration of lives lived in service and a reminder of the strong bonds that hold the community together.
One resident, a Vietnam veteran, has quietly spent the last 50 years trying to receive a long-overdue medal. Jackie took it upon herself to contact the local Veterans Affairs office and media. Thanks to her persistence, the resident’s case is now being reexamined, and hopes are high that he will finally receive the recognition he deserves.
Inspiring Others
The Memorial Day event touched many, including another resident who had long avoided speaking about his military service. After seeing the pride and gratitude on display, he asked to have his story added to the Wall of Appreciation as well.
The tribute was featured in the local news, but its greatest impact was felt inside the community. Neighbors, friends and families were moved by the care Jackie put into every detail.
A Personal Mission with a Lasting Impact
With a father who served in World War II and a brother who served in Vietnam, Jackie’s connection to this work is personal. Honoring veterans is not just part of her job. It’s part of who she is.
By bringing these stories forward, Jackie reminded everyone what makes Holiday communities like hers so special. This is a place where people show up for one another, not just on holidays but every day.
If you’re interested in learning more about life at Holiday by Atria, including how we honor the people who call our communities home, we invite you to visit Life at Holiday.
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