202 S. Bridge St, Linden, MI 48451 (810) 735-9400
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Dream Maker Program

Dream Maker Program – Marcia’s Tuesday Night Feasts

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Every Tuesday night, Marcia would transform her kitchen into a haven of warmth and delectable aromas as she prepared a special dinner with dessert for her three boys. Marcia, an avid baker and passionate cook, took great pride in crafting these meals, knowing they brought immense joy to her family.

It wasn’t long before Kelly, a friend from occupational therapy, discovered Marcia’s Tuesday night tradition.

She was fascinated by Marcia’s dedication and culinary talent. Marcia’s enthusiasm was infectious, and soon she decided to share her beloved recipes and cooking skills with others.

Marcia brought her treasured recipe cards, each worn from years of use, along with her favorite baking pans from home. The Symphony staff, eager to support her culinary endeavors, gladly took on the task of grocery shopping for her. Excited to replicate her tradition, Marcia began her culinary adventure in the center’s cozy dining room at 9:00 a.m., skillfully preparing another dinner feast for her sons. She worked diligently, creating mouth-watering dishes with minimal assistance, while the staff periodically peeked in to check on her progress. The aroma of freshly baked caramel rolls, the zest of lemonade pie, and the rich, savory scent of cream of mushroom chicken with mushroom sauce wafted through the air, tantalizing everyone within range.

As the hours passed, Marcia meticulously prepared each dish, ensuring everything was perfect for her boys. The caramel rolls, a family favorite, were gooey and sweet, the perfect start to the meal. The lemonade pie, with its tangy and refreshing flavor, provided a delightful contrast. And the cream of mushroom chicken, smothered in a luscious mushroom sauce, was the star of the evening, its rich flavors leaving everyone craving more.

To add a personal touch, Marcia always included a simple yet cherished snack for her boys-crisp, tangy pickles. They were a reminder of home and the love she poured into every meal.

By 6:00 PM, the table was set, and Marcia’s boys eagerly gathered, their faces lighting up as they took in the feast before them. Each bite was a testament to Marcia’s love and dedication, a delicious reminder of the bond they shared. And as they savored the meal, laughter and conversation flowed, recreating memories that would last a lifetime.

Marcia’s Tuesday night dinners were more than just meals; they were a celebration of family, love, and the joy of sharing good food.


About the Dream Maker Program

Symphony’s Dream Maker program is at the heart of who we are as a company. It allows us the privilege to learn about the wishes and dreams of our guests and to do whatever we can to transform that hope into a reality. A Dream Maker request can be something daring, a simple pleasure, an untold wish, or even reliving a fond memory. If it will enrich the life of a guest, we want to hear about it!

Army Veteran Returns to VFW Hall Through Symphony’s Dream Maker Program to Thank Them for Their Service

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“I’ve been going to the VFW since 1972, and I sure miss going.” shared Jimmy. Jimmy Yates has been residing at Symphony Linden Assisted Living since 2023.

Jimmy served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, and he often shares stories of his military service with our staff.

Kelly Stepanski, our Occupational Therapist, shared, “I work closely with Jimmy during occupational therapy, and he often daydreams about returning to the VFW to drink a cold beer with his friends and to play poker.” Enjoying his stories, inspired by the Symphony Dream Maker program, and wanting to thank the Vets for their service, the staff at Symphony Linden united to make Jimmy’s daydream a reality.

Jimmy and his Veteran friends, who also reside at Symphony, met for a pizza dinner at Choo Chews Social Pub located within Symphony Linden Assisted Living. From there, the staff transported the Vets to Fenton VFW to enjoy some frosty brews in the good company of other Veterans. The expenses for the pizza, American-military themed shirts, transportation, and the visit to the VFW were covered by the generosity of the Dream Maker program.“

“It was amazin’ to return to the VFW! Thank you to the staff at Symphony Linden and the Dream Maker Program for taking me back there. Some of my best times were at the VFW. In fact, I was even married there!” Jimmy exclaimed.

Symphony’s Dream Maker program is at the heart of who we are as a company. It allows us the privilege to learn about the wishes and dreams of our guests and to do whatever we can to transform that hope into a reality. A Dream Maker request can be something daring, a simple pleasure, an untold wish, or even reliving a fond memory. If it will enrich the life of a guest, we want to hear about it!