Hello Bickford Families, We hope you’ve had a wonderful week and are enjoying this beautiful month of June! The sunshine and warmer weather have brought such a refreshing energy into our community, creating many meaningful moments we’re excited to share with you. ________________________________________ This Week’s Highlights Our residents had the opportunity to enjoy a special field trip to Feed My Starving Children. It was a wonderful experience, and we are so grateful to those who participated. Their helping hands truly made a difference, and their kindness and generosity continue to inspire us all. ________________________________________ Upcoming Outings & Events We have an exciting and festive week ahead, and we would love for you to join us whenever you can! • July 3rd @ 2:00 PM Join us for a Patriotic Sing-Along featuring a special entertainer. It will be a joyful way to celebrate the holiday weekend together! • 4th of July Happy Hour @ 3:00 PM Celebrate Independence Day with us! Enjoy delicious grilled appetizers prepared by Chef Carlos. Families are warmly invited to attend—come relax, mingle, and celebrate with our residents. • 4th of July BBQ @ 12:00 PM (July 4th) We will be hosting a festive BBQ lunch for residents and families. Please RSVP to Mallory by July 3rd if you plan on attending. ________________________________________ Announcements We are incredibly proud to share that Bickford of Gurnee has received our Bronze Certification for the Montessori Inspired Lifestyle! ???? This achievement is the result of months of dedication and teamwork from our amazing staff. We are so excited to continue enhancing the quality of life for our residents through this meaningful program. Please see the attached certification for more details. ________________________________________ Friendly Reminder Please note that due to the holiday, management will be out of the office on July 3, 2026. As always, if you have any questions, concerns, or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out—I am always happy to help. ________________________________________ Thank you for being such an important part of our Bickford family. We wish you a safe, joyful, and blessed holiday weekend filled with celebration and time with loved ones. Happy 250th Birthday to the USA! Warmly, Christine

If You Could Be Any Age Again… Just for a Day At Bickford of Gurnee Assisted Living and Montessori Memory Care, we are always looking for meaningful ways to spark conversation, laughter, and reflection with our residents. This week, we asked a simple yet powerful question: “If you could go back to any age for the day, what age would you pick?" The answers were as unique and beautiful as the stories behind them. Some of our residents chose their younger years—ages filled with energy, adventure, and new beginnings. We heard about carefree childhood days, first loves, and the excitement of raising families. Others shared that they wouldn’t go back very far at all, choosing ages where they felt confident, accomplished, and proud of the lives they were building. A few residents surprised us by saying they are happy right where they are today. Their answer wasn’t about going back—it was about appreciating the wisdom, relationships, and memories they’ve gained along the way. These conversations reminded us that every stage of life holds something special. Whether it’s the joy of youth, the pride of adulthood, or the richness of experience that comes with age, each chapter tells a story worth celebrating. As you scroll through the photos, you’ll see smiling faces paired with the ages our residents chose—and just maybe, you’ll start to think about your own answer too. What age would you choose if you could go back for a day? At Bickford, it’s moments like these that bring us closer, spark connection, and remind us that every life has a story worth sharing.

Earlier this month when we had our Open House, Sharon volunteered to greet all the guests at the door and hand out brochures! As part of our Montessori Program, we encourage the residents to find purposeful roles in the community whether it be greeting, gardening, sweeping, being on a resident committee, or something else that the resident is interested in doing. It is a vital element to resident well-being and to residents maintaining their independence for as long as they can. The residents enjoy participating, and it brings a smile to everyone around them! #montessorimemorycare #bickfordofgurnee #bickfordseniorliving #assistedliving

>>> Welcome Home to Bickford of Gurnee <<< The moment you walk through our doors, you'll notice something special. From the fresh flowers and friendly faces to Herbert's patriotic welcome, every detail is designed to make residents and families feel right at home. At Bickford, we believe exceptional senior living is about more than beautiful surroundings—it's about genuine relationships, compassionate care, and peace of mind for families. Whether it's sharing cookies in the Bistro, enjoying meaningful conversations with neighbors, or knowing assistance is always close by, our residents are surrounded by a community that truly cares. We're especially proud that while our cookies may disappear quickly, our dedication to our residents never does. With a call light response time that reflects our commitment to attentive care, families can feel confident knowing their loved ones are supported by a team that responds with urgency, kindness, and heart. If you're searching for a place where your loved one will be known, valued, and celebrated every day, we invite you to come experience the Bickford difference for yourself. Stop by for a visit, share a cookie in our Bistro, and see why so many families choose to call Bickford of Gurnee home. Because here, you're not just moving into a community—you're becoming part of a family. #BickfordOfGurnee #WelcomeHome #HigherPath #SeniorLivingWithHeart #FamilyFocusedCare #AssistedLiving #MemoryCare #LifeAtBickford #CompassionInAction #SeniorLivingCommunity

Congratulations, Eulalia, on becoming a Black Pearl at Bickford of Gurnee! Today, we proudly celebrate not only your achievement, but the incredible impact you make on the lives of our residents, families, and team members every single day. At Bickford, we believe our greatest strength is our people, and Eulalia is a shining example of what makes our community so special. Caring for others is more than a job for her—it is her purpose. She brings compassion, patience, and confidence to every interaction, creating meaningful moments that help our residents feel valued, respected, and truly at home. What truly sets Eulalia apart is her unwavering commitment to both our residents and her fellow caregivers. She leads by example with a positive attitude, a self-motivated spirit, and a willingness to step in wherever help is needed. Whether she is comforting a resident, supporting a coworker, or staying a little longer to ensure someone receives exceptional care, Eulalia consistently demonstrates the heart of a servant leader. One of Eulalia's greatest strengths is her communication and partnership with our nursing team. As a caregiver, she is often the first to notice subtle changes, resident needs, preferences, or concerns. She understands the importance of keeping nurses informed and ensuring that critical information is communicated promptly and accurately. This collaboration keeps everyone aligned, strengthens the quality of care we provide, and helps ensure our residents receive the attention, support, and interventions they need. Her vigilance, observation skills, and dedication play a vital role in maintaining the health, safety, and well-being of those we serve. At Bickford, our Higher Path philosophy is centered on nurturing happiness, purpose, and belonging. Eulalia embodies these values every day by fostering meaningful relationships and creating an environment where residents thrive and team members feel supported. She understands that exceptional senior living is not just about meeting needs—it is about creating connections, preserving dignity, and enriching lives. Families trust us with the care of their loved ones, and caregivers like Eulalia are the reason that trust continues to grow. Her dedication, kindness, professionalism, and genuine love for serving others make a lasting difference in the lives she touches. She represents the culture families are looking for when choosing a senior living community—one where residents are known, loved, and cared for by team members who treat them like family. Eulalia, thank you for being an extraordinary caregiver, an exceptional teammate, and a true reflection of what Bickford stands for. We are grateful to have you on our team and proud to recognize you as a Black Pearl. Your passion for caring for others inspires those around you and elevates the experience of every resident who calls Bickford home. Congratulations, Eulalia—you are truly one of Bickford's brightest treasures, and we are blessed to have you as part of our Bickford family! #BlackPearl #BickfordFamily #EmployeeSpotlight #BickfordCaregiver #EnrichingHappiness #CongratulationsEulalia #CompassionInAction #TheHeartOfBickford #HigherPath #CNA #Gurnee #BickfordofGurnee #MakingADifference

Congratulations, Berenice, on earning your Black Pearl again! Being recognized as a Black Pearl is a tremendous honor, and you embody every quality that this award represents. Your humility, dedication, and unwavering commitment to providing exceptional care make you truly deserving of this recognition. What makes you so remarkable is that you never seek attention for the incredible work you do. You do not boast about your accomplishments or look for praise—you simply step up and do what needs to be done, always putting the residents, families, and team first. That quiet confidence and selfless dedication are the true marks of a leader. You consistently lead by example, offering support not only to your peers but to everyone around you. Whether assisting caregivers, partnering with leadership, or helping wherever needed, you are always willing to lend a hand. Your ability to think critically, handle challenges with professionalism, and take initiative reflects the qualities of an outstanding supervisor and role model. Your clinical knowledge and sound judgment allow you to navigate situations with confidence and grace. Equally impressive is your exceptional customer service. You treat every resident and family member with patience, kindness, compassion, and respect, ensuring they feel valued, heard, and cared for. No matter what the day brings, you arrive with a positive attitude and face every challenge with grace and professionalism. Your dedication, integrity, and servant-hearted leadership make a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to work alongside you. But you aren't just a Wellness Nurse—you are so much more. You are a teacher, taking the time to educate and guide those around you. You are a leader, inspiring others through your actions, your work ethic, and your commitment to excellence. You are a trusted mentor, a problem-solver, and a source of strength for your team. The knowledge, compassion, and wisdom you share help make everyone around you better. We are truly blessed to have you as part of the Bickford Family, and even more grateful to have you as a member of the Gurnee Bickford Family. Thank you for all that you do each and every day. Your impact reaches far beyond the walls of our community and is felt by residents, families, and team members alike. Congratulations again on this well-deserved recognition, Berenice. You aren't just a Wellness Nurse—you are a teacher, a leader, mentor, and genuinely a Black Pearl. We are so thankful for you and proud to celebrate you today and every day. #BlackPearl #BickfordFamily #EmployeeSpotlight #WellnessNurse #EnrichingHappiness #CongratulationsBerenice #CompassionInAction #TheHeartOfBickford #HigherPath #NurseMom #Gurnee #BickfordofGurnee #MakingADifference

Welcome to Our Newest “Residents” at Bickford of Gurnee! At Bickford of Gurnee Assisted Living and Montessori Memory Care, we always say everyone is welcome—and this week, that even includes a few very special (and very tiny) new residents! Our garden has become home to a group of black swallowtail caterpillars who have happily settled into our dill plants. And honestly… we couldn’t be more delighted. It’s just another example of how peaceful, vibrant, and full of life our community truly is. There’s something so special about slowing down to watch nature unfold right outside our doors. Residents and visiting families have been enjoying checking in on our little guests, watching them grow day by day. It’s a gentle reminder of growth, change, and the beauty found in everyday moments. At Bickford, we believe in creating an environment that feels like home—not just for our residents, but for all the life that surrounds us. Whether it’s tending to our gardens, enjoying fresh air on the patio, or sharing stories over happy hour, our community is always buzzing with warmth, connection, and yes… sometimes even a few caterpillars. Who knows—maybe we’ll soon have butterflies fluttering around to welcome you on your next visit! If you haven’t toured Bickford of Gurnee yet, now is the perfect time. Come see the beauty (and maybe meet our newest “residents”) for yourself! Stop by or call Savannah at 224-219-1741 to set up a tour.

Bickford of Gurnee Weekly Update Hello Bickford Families, We hope you had a wonderful week and are soaking in all the beauty that June has to offer! The sunshine and warmer weather have brought such a vibrant energy into our community, and we’re grateful to share so many meaningful moments with you. This Week’s Highlights We were thrilled to host our Father’s Day Happy Hour, and what a special celebration it was! Thank you to all the Residents and Families who joined us—it was a wonderful time filled with connection, laughter, and appreciation. A special thank you to Chef Carlos, who prepared delicious appetizers that everyone truly enjoyed! Our Residents also had a fantastic outing to Lambs Farm for lunch. As always, it was a big hit! Lambs Farm continues to be such a welcoming community, offering generous portions, warm hospitality, and wonderful companionship. It’s always a joy to visit! Upcoming Outings & Events We have another fun-filled week ahead and would love for you to join us! Sunday, 6/21/2026 at 12:00 Noon Father’s Day Lunch We will be serving steak and ham—all families are warmly invited to join us as we continue celebrating the special fathers in our community! Monday, 6/22/26 at 2PM The country singer, Tim O'Grady Jr is coming back to boot scoot and boogie with our residents. Everyone is welcome to join. He was a hit last month. Wednesday, 6/24/2026 at 1:30 PM Feed My Starving Children Outing We’re looking forward to giving back together as a community. Please connect with Mallory if you would like to join us! Friendly Reminder As the temperatures continue to rise, we kindly ask that you send your loved ones with sunscreen and a reusable water bottle. This helps keep everyone comfortable, safe, and well-hydrated during our outdoor activities and outings. If you ever have questions, concerns, or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out—I am always happy to help. Thank you for being such an important part of our Bickford family. We truly appreciate your continued support and connection. Wishing you all a beautiful week ahead and a very Happy Father’s Day! Warmly, Christine

Employee Spotlight: Valeria – A Quiet Force of Compassion and Excellence At Bickford, we are blessed to have team members who make a profound impact on the lives of our residents, families, and fellow caregivers. Today, we are honored to recognize one of those extraordinary individuals—Valeria. Valeria is the perfect example of someone who doesn't seek the spotlight but shines brightly nonetheless. While she may initially appear quiet and reserved, those who have the privilege of working alongside her quickly discover that her kindness, dedication, and positive spirit speak volumes. Her presence is one of calm reassurance, and her gentle nature creates an environment where residents feel comfortable, valued, and genuinely cared for. Every day, Valeria continues to show up and show out, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to serving others. She consistently approaches her work with humility, compassion, and professionalism, putting the needs of our residents first in everything she does. Whether assisting with daily care, offering a comforting smile, lending a helping hand to a teammate, or simply taking a few extra moments to brighten someone's day, Valeria exemplifies what it means to be a caregiver. One of the many things that makes Valeria so special is her ability to connect with others through her quiet yet contagious positivity. She may not always be the loudest person in the room, but her warmth and kindness leave a lasting impression. Her sweet smile has become a familiar source of comfort and joy for our residents, many of whom look forward to seeing her each day. It is often the simple moments—a cheerful greeting, a gentle word of encouragement, or a patient act of service—that make the greatest difference, and Valeria excels in providing those moments over and over again. The relationships she has built with our residents are a testament to the genuine care she provides. Residents adore Valeria not only because of the exceptional care she delivers but because they know she truly cares about them as individuals. Families recognize and appreciate the comfort that comes from knowing their loved ones are being cared for by someone so attentive, dependable, and compassionate. Her dedication helps create the warm, family-like atmosphere that makes Bickford such a special place to call home. Valeria also represents the heart of what makes Bickford different. At Bickford, we believe that caregiving is about more than completing tasks—it is about creating meaningful connections, enriching lives, and helping residents experience happiness, purpose, and dignity every day. Valeria embodies these values through her actions. She enriches happiness not through grand gestures but through countless small acts of kindness that collectively make a tremendous impact on our community. Her willingness to help wherever needed, her commitment to teamwork, and her consistent reliability make her an invaluable member of our Bickford family. Team members know they can count on Valeria, residents feel safe and supported in her care, and families trust that their loved ones are receiving the attention and compassion they deserve. In a profession that requires patience, empathy, resilience, and heart, Valeria continuously demonstrates all of these qualities and more. Her contributions may often be made quietly, but their impact echoes throughout our community every single day. She reminds us that true leadership is often demonstrated through service, and that some of the most powerful influences come from those who lead with kindness and humility. Valeria, thank you for everything you do. Thank you for your dedication, your beautiful smile, your compassionate heart, and your unwavering commitment to the residents and families we serve. Thank you for always being willing to help, for creating meaningful connections, and for making Bickford a better place each and every day. We are incredibly grateful to have you as part of our Bickford family. Your work does not go unnoticed, your kindness does not go unappreciated, and the difference you make is felt by everyone around you. Thank you, Valeria, for your countless contributions to Bickford, our residents, our families, and your fellow team members. Your quiet strength, caring spirit, and contagious kindness help make Bickford feel like home. We appreciate you more than words can say! #BickfordFamily #EmployeeSpotlight #CNAAppreciation #EnrichingHappiness #ThankYouValeria #CompassionInAction #TheHeartOfBickford #HigherPath

Employee Spotlight: Jazzly – Bringing Heart, Hope, and Happiness to Bickford Every Day At Bickford, we are incredibly fortunate to have team members who embody the very essence of compassionate care, and Jazzly is one of those extraordinary individuals who makes a lasting difference every single day. From the moment Jazzly walks through our doors, she brings with her a positive attitude, an uplifting spirit, and a smile that can brighten even the most challenging day. Her warm presence is felt not only by the residents she serves but also by her fellow team members, families, and everyone fortunate enough to cross her path. Whether she is assisting a resident with their daily needs, offering words of encouragement, or simply sharing one of her signature smiles, Jazzly consistently creates an atmosphere of kindness, comfort, and joy. What makes Jazzly especially remarkable is her unwavering dedication and work ethic. In addition to working diligently at Bickford, she also balances a second job while pursuing her dream of attending nursing school. Her determination, perseverance, and commitment to personal and professional growth are truly inspiring. Despite her busy schedule, Jazzly never allows her responsibilities to diminish the quality of care she provides. She continues to show up each day ready to serve, ready to help, and ready to make a difference. When asked why she chose a career in healthcare, Jazzly shared a simple yet powerful answer: "I want to care for those who need it the most." Those words perfectly capture the heart behind everything she does. Caring for others is not just her job—it is her calling. Her compassion shines through in every interaction, whether she is offering a helping hand, providing reassurance during difficult moments, or taking the time to ensure each resident feels valued, respected, and loved. Jazzly exemplifies what it means to be a caregiver. She demonstrates patience, empathy, accountability, and genuine concern for the well-being of others. Our residents benefit greatly from her attentive care, and her teammates appreciate the positivity and support she brings to the workplace. She reminds us that healthcare is not only about meeting physical needs but also about fostering meaningful human connections and enriching the lives of those we serve. As Jazzly continues her journey toward becoming a nurse, we have no doubt that she will touch countless more lives with the same compassion, dedication, and grace that she demonstrates today. The future of healthcare is brighter because of individuals like her, and we are proud to be a part of her story. Jazzly, thank you for your tireless work, your joyful spirit, your contagious smile, and your commitment to caring for those who need it most. Thank you for bringing your energy, compassion, and heart to Bickford every day. We are truly grateful that you chose Bickford, and we are honored to have you as part of our family. Thank you, Jazzly, for being so wonderfully "Jazzy" and for making our community a happier place every single day! Your impact does not go unnoticed, and we appreciate you more than words can express. #EnrichingHappiness #BickfordFamily #CNAAppreciation #FutureNurse #ThankYouJazzly #MakingADifference #SoJazzy