Side by Side eNewsletter – July

​Side by Side begins our 20th Year!

They say time flies when you’re having fun, but we cannot believe that we’re nearly at TWO DECADES of working side by side with over 600 people with brain injury. We can’t wait to celebrate! First up, our commemorative logo…

This year, we’re planning multiple events to let folks see our new facility upgrades, expand awareness about our work and a chance to kick back with our longstanding supporters. 

We’ll be in touch!

Side by Side Construction Update

Introducing our new and improved Front Garden – complete with fountain! We’re excited to have this new space where our members can relax and enjoy the greenspace when taking a break.

Before, the lawn was nice but didn’t lend itself to much activity. Now that we have a patio with wide paths for wheelchair access and benches for people to sit, everyone can enjoy! 

Side by Side Member: Cliff

This is Cliff. He’s got three grown children and three grandchildren who call him “Papa.” He was a security officer for years, but his true passion in life is painting. He has donated a number of them to Side by Side. 

Cliff comes to Side by Side two days a week and is part of the Maintenance Unit. He likes to stay busy doing things like mopping and sweeping. His favorite task is vaccuuming though.

We asked Cliff his thoughts on coming to Side by Side. He responded, “You have nice people I like to be around. And you can talk to them. Wonderful people to associate with.”

What else should you know about Cliff? While he’s at work, he likes to sing or listen to music. He loves listening to oldies music, especially the Drifters. “On Broadway” is his favorite song. All it takes is to play it and Cliff will dance and sing along. You’re sure to hear him lament, “They don’t make music like this anymore!”

Click here to listen to Cliff favorite song via Youtube>>

Ladies Luncheon

Even though the majority of Side by Side members are male – 72% to be exact – we have a strong group of women who enjoy getting together. It was a group of our members who realized that we hadn’t done a girls lunch for while. They took it upon themselves to plan one. It’s just another example of how our community is both for and run by its members. 

Within a few weeks of organizing with staff, they met at Side by Side and carpooled over to the nearby Red Lobster. These thoughtful ladies even brough back some of their famous cheddar biscuits for the guys!

Safety Survey Reviewed by Side by Side Members

Safety is of the utmost importance at Side by Side. That’s why we continuously hold trainings to review what to do in case of emergency. Members and staff are included so that we’re all prepared.

Upcoming Events for Active Members & Families

August 9 – Gamenight & Caregiver Support Group

Looking forward to seeing our good friends at Shah Law Firm. Thanks for sponsoring August gamenight – hope you’re ready to take on the Connect Four camp (pictured below).

Saturday September 28 – Side by Side Family Breakfast

Come one, come all! BUT make sure to let us know if you’re coming. All current members are invited to the Clubhouse on Saturday, September 28 from 10AM – 12PM. Current members may bring up to 2 guests. 

We’ll have breakfast catered by our sponsors The Marks Law Group. Thanks to them, it’s a free event for our families. Since our members come to Side by Side an average of two days a week, events like this are the perfect opportunity to meet folks who come one different days. 

Ever wondered what the Clubhouse looks like on a typical day? We’ll have tours available guided by members and staff. They’ll explain what goes on in our Kitchen Unit, Business Unit and Maintenance Unit. 

RSVP to Alexis at alexis@sidebysideclubhouse.org by the Sept. 14 so that we can order enough food! Questions? Call 770-469-9355 or click here for more info>>