Bickford of Gurnee Weekly Update
Hello Bickford Families,
Welcome to September! As we begin to enjoy cooler temperatures, changing leaves, and the beauty of the fall season, we are excited to share all the wonderful happenings in our community.
Our residents have been making special memories through outings, celebrations, and meaningful connections. Thank you, as always, for your continued support, trust, and partnership. We are grateful to have you as part of the Bickford family.
This Week's Highlights
Scenic Drive Adventure
Residents enjoyed a relaxing scenic drive through downtown Grayslake and the beautiful surrounding rural areas. The outing provided an opportunity to enjoy the changing scenery, reminisce, and spend quality time together outside the community.
Upcoming Celebrations & Community Events
Adeline’s 100th Birthday Celebration
What an incredible milestone!
Please join us as we celebrate Adeline's 100th Birthday on:
Monday, September 21, 2026
2:00 PM
We look forward to honoring this special occasion with family, friends, and fellow residents.
Please see the attached flyer for additional details.
Community Garage Sale
Start gathering those treasures!
Thursday, October 15, 2026
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Happy Hour to Follow
Residents and families are encouraged to reserve a table and sell items in exchange for donations.
All proceeds will benefit the Alzheimer's Association.
If you would like to donate items for the sale, donations may be brought to the Activity Room beginning October 1st.
Please speak with Mallory if you would like to participate, reserve a table, or donate items.
Please see the attached flyer for complete details.
Please Welcome Our New Hairdresser!
We are excited to welcome Sara, our new hairdresser, to Bickford of Gurnee!
Her next available salon day will be:
Thursday, September 24, 2026
If you would like to schedule an appointment for your loved one, please contact Mallory.
Fall Vaccination Information
As we prepare for the upcoming flu and respiratory illness season, please note the following vaccination updates:
COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic
COVID vaccine consent forms have been placed in residents' mailboxes.
October 15, 2026
9:00 AM
Residents interested in receiving the COVID vaccine should complete the appropriate consent form and contact Alonda with any questions.
Flu Vaccination Clinic
Flu vaccine consent forms were due on September 3, 2026.
If you have questions regarding flu vaccinations, please contact Alonda.
Walk to End Alzheimer's - Lake County
We are proud to support the fight against Alzheimer's disease and invite families, friends, and community members to participate in this meaningful event.
Saturday, September 26, 2026
Event Schedule
• Registration: 9:00 AM
• Opening Ceremony: 10:00 AM
• Walk Begins: 10:30 AM
Location
Independence Grove Forest Preserve
16400 West Buckley Road
Libertyville, IL 60048
Route Options
• 2.5-Mile Main Route
• Short Route (Under 1 Mile)
The event will take place rain or shine.
Whether you choose to walk, volunteer, or donate, your support helps advance Alzheimer's care, support, and research.
Important Reminder About Community Outings
Residents living in Memory Care are always welcome and encouraged to participate in community outings.
For safety and support, a family or designated escort is required for participation.
If you would like your loved one to attend an upcoming outing, please speak with Mallory or Christine before signing up so arrangements can be made.
Thank You
As always, if you have any questions, concerns, or need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out. We are honored to support both you and your loved ones every step of the way.
Thank you for being such a valued part of the Bickford family. We appreciate the trust you place in us and look forward to creating many more meaningful moments together this fall.
Warm Regards,
Christine Lawrence
Executive Director
Bickford of Gurnee
Savannah Kirk
Oct 7, 2026
Opportunities like this don't come around often. This beautiful one-bedroom apartment is one of the most sought-after floor plans in our community. What makes it special? It's currently the only available one-bedroom featuring two windows, filling the apartment with an abundance of natural sunlight throughout the day. Located at the end of the main hallway, residents enjoy extra peace and privacy while still being just a short walk from everything that makes life convenient and engaging. The apartment is only four doors down from the nursing station, living room, dining room, bistro, and many of the daily activities our residents love. With a spacious living area, bright bedroom, and attractive finishes, this apartment offers the perfect balance of comfort, convenience, and independence. Extra sunlight, Quiet end-of-hallway location, Close to dining, activities, and nursing support, Available immediately! This apartment won't stay available for long. Contact Savannah at 224-219-1741 to schedule a tour before it's gone!
Mallory Dabrowski
Oct 2, 2026
Bickford of Gurnee Weekly Update Hello Bickford Families, Welcome to October! We have been enjoying cooler temperatures, changing leaves, and the beauty of the fall season, we are excited to share all the wonderful happenings in our community. Our residents have been making special memories through outings, celebrations, and meaningful connections. Thank you, as always, for your continued support, trust, and partnership. We are grateful to have you as part of the Bickford family. Upcoming Celebrations & Community Events Shopping Trip Friday October 9, 2026 @10:00 am to Trader Joe’s Meet in lobby and be ready to go at 9:45 am Entertainer Monday October 5, 2026 @2:00pm Mike the accordion player is scheduled for your musically pleasure. Painting Mini Pumpkins Thursday October 8, 2026 @11:00am Meet in the activity room and bring you artistic visions. Community Garage Sale PLEASE BRING IN ALL DONATED ITEMS STARTING OCTOBER 1st- OCTOBER 8th. There will be boxes in the Activity room to place the items in. Start gathering those treasures! Thursday, October 15, 2026 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM Happy Hour to Follow Residents and families are encouraged to reserve a table and sell items in exchange for donations. All proceeds will benefit the Alzheimer's Association. Please speak with Mallory if you would like to participate, reserve a table, or donate items. Please see the attached flyer for complete details. Halloween Trick Treat Event Thursday 10/29/2026 from 4:00-5:00. Directly after a Halloween Happy Hour. We would love to have children come to the community in their costumes for trick or treating with the Residents. Candy will be provided. All children are invited. More information to follow. Please Welcome Our New Hairdresser! We are excited to welcome Sara, our new hairdresser, to Bickford of Gurnee! Her next available salon day will be: Thursday, October 8, 2026 If you would like to schedule an appointment for your loved one, please contact Mallory. Fall Vaccination Information As we prepare for the upcoming flu and respiratory illness season, please note the following vaccination updates: COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic COVID vaccine consent forms have been placed in residents' mailboxes. October 15, 2026 9:00 AM Residents interested in receiving the COVID vaccine should complete the appropriate consent form and contact Alonda with any questions. Flu Vaccination Clinic If you are interested in any vaccinations, please sign the consent forms provided. If you have questions regarding flu vaccinations, please contact Alonda. Important Reminder About Community Outings Residents living in Memory Care are always welcome and encouraged to participate in community outings. For safety and support, a family or designated escort is required for participation. If you would like your loved one to attend an upcoming outing, please speak with Mallory or Christine before signing up so arrangements can be made. Thank You As always, if you have any questions, concerns, or need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out. We are honored to support both you and your loved ones every step of the way. Thank you for being such a valued part of the Bickford family. We appreciate the trust you place in us and look forward to creating many more meaningful moments together this fall. Warm Regards, Christine Lawrence Executive Director Bickford of Gurnee
Mallory Dabrowski
Sep 29, 2026
This afternoon, the residents enjoyed delicious chocolate chip cookies during social hour! Embracing Montessori, the residents voted for chocolate chip cookies, helped set up the tables, picked out the music, and of course ate all the cookies! Everyone agreed that we should do more cookie socials! Thank you to everyone that came and helped! #montessorimemorycare #bickfordofgurnee #bickfordseniorliving #memorycare #assistedliving
Savannah Kirk
Sep 22, 2026
Community Garage Sale Benefiting the Alzheimer's Association At Bickford of Gurnee, we believe that everyone has something valuable to contribute, and our residents prove that every day. We're excited to invite our friends, neighbors, families, and community partners to our Community Garage Sale on Thursday, October 15 from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM! This special event is more than just a chance to find great bargains. Our residents are taking the lead in organizing and running the sale as part of our Montessori-inspired programming. Through meaningful roles and responsibilities, residents help sort donations, price items, organize displays, welcome shoppers, and assist throughout the event. It's a wonderful opportunity to showcase purpose, engagement, and community connection while supporting an important cause. We're accepting donations of gently used and like-new items from October 1 through October 8, including: Clothing Knick-knacks Home décor Kitchenware Books In addition to fantastic garage sale finds, we'll also have homemade baked goods available for purchase. Please note that this is a cash-only event, and 100% of proceeds will be donated to the Alzheimer's Association to support research, advocacy, and programs for those impacted by Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. Whether you're searching for a hidden treasure, treating yourself to a sweet snack, or simply stopping by to support a great cause, we'd love to see you there. Every purchase helps make a difference while celebrating the talents, contributions, and purpose of our residents. Mark your calendars, bring your cash, and join us for an afternoon of shopping, community, and giving back! Community Garage Sale Thursday, October 15 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Bickford of Gurnee We look forward to seeing you there!
Christine Burke Lawrence
Sep 21, 2026
Congratulations to a beautiful couple! Savannah our Family Advocate was married on Saturday. We wish them all the best! -Christine
Mallory Dabrowski
Sep 18, 2026
Bickford of Gurnee Weekly Update Hello Bickford Families, Welcome to September! As we begin to enjoy cooler temperatures, changing leaves, and the beauty of the fall season, we are excited to share all the wonderful happenings in our community. Our residents have been making special memories through outings, celebrations, and meaningful connections. Thank you, as always, for your continued support, trust, and partnership. We are grateful to have you as part of the Bickford family. This Week's Highlights Outing to the Dollar Store Residents stocked up essentials and snacks. Residents also enjoyed the Fall decorations. Upcoming Celebrations & Community Events Adeline's 100th Birthday Celebration What an incredible milestone! Please join us as we celebrate Adeline's 100th Birthday on: Monday, September 21, 2026 2:00 PM We look forward to honoring this special occasion with family, friends, and fellow residents. Please see the attached flyer for additional details. Community Garage Sale Start gathering those treasures! Thursday, October 15, 2026 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM Happy Hour to Follow Residents and families are encouraged to reserve a table and sell items in exchange for donations. All proceeds will benefit the Alzheimer's Association. If you would like to donate items for the sale, donations may be brought to the Activity Room beginning October 1st. Please speak with Mallory if you would like to participate, reserve a table, or donate items. Please see the attached flyer for complete details. Halloween Trick Treat Event Thursday 10/29/2026 from 4:00-5:00. Directly after a Halloween Happy Hour. We would love to have children come to the community in their costumes for trick or treating with the Residents. Candy will be provided. All children are invited. More information to follow. Please Welcome Our New Hairdresser! We are excited to welcome Sara, our new hairdresser, to Bickford of Gurnee! Her next available salon day will be: Thursday, September 24, 2026 If you would like to schedule an appointment for your loved one, please contact Mallory. Fall Vaccination Information As we prepare for the upcoming flu and respiratory illness season, please note the following vaccination updates: COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic ✅ COVID vaccine consent forms have been placed in residents' mailboxes. October 15, 2026 9:00 AM Residents interested in receiving the COVID vaccine should complete the appropriate consent form and contact Alonda with any questions. Flu Vaccination Clinic Flu vaccine consent forms were due on September 3, 2026. If you have questions regarding flu vaccinations, please contact Alonda. Walk to End Alzheimer's - Lake County We are proud to support the fight against Alzheimer's disease and invite families, friends, and community members to participate in this meaningful event. Saturday, September 26, 2026 Event Schedule • Registration: 9:00 AM • Opening Ceremony: 10:00 AM • Walk Begins: 10:30 AM Location Independence Grove Forest Preserve 16400 West Buckley Road Libertyville, IL 60048 Route Options • 2.5-Mile Main Route • Short Route (Under 1 Mile) ☔ The event will take place rain or shine. Whether you choose to walk, volunteer, or donate, your support helps advance Alzheimer's care, support, and research. Important Reminder About Community Outings Residents living in Memory Care are always welcome and encouraged to participate in community outings. For safety and support, a family or designated escort is required for participation. If you would like your loved one to attend an upcoming outing, please speak with Mallory or Christine before signing up so arrangements can be made. Reminder Dr. Wolf will be making rounds on 9/25/2026 in the community. Thank You As always, if you have any questions, concerns, or need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out. We are honored to support both you and your loved ones every step of the way. Thank you for being such a valued part of the Bickford family. We appreciate the trust you place in us and look forward to creating many more meaningful moments together this fall. Warm Regards, Christine Lawrence Executive Director Bickford of Gurnee
Savannah Kirk
Sep 15, 2026
Montessori Vote Board update time!!! Apple pie is superior over pumpkin pie in our community, so I guess now we know what to have Carlos serve this Thanksgiving!! New activity based question- haunted house or pumpkin patch!? Stop by our community and vote today!
Savannah Kirk
Sep 11, 2026
Bickford of Gurnee Weekly Update Hello Bickford Families, Welcome to September! As we begin to enjoy cooler temperatures, changing leaves, and the beauty of the fall season, we are excited to share all the wonderful happenings in our community. Our residents have been making special memories through outings, celebrations, and meaningful connections. Thank you, as always, for your continued support, trust, and partnership. We are grateful to have you as part of the Bickford family. This Week's Highlights Scenic Drive Adventure Residents enjoyed a relaxing scenic drive through downtown Grayslake and the beautiful surrounding rural areas. The outing provided an opportunity to enjoy the changing scenery, reminisce, and spend quality time together outside the community. Upcoming Celebrations & Community Events Adeline’s 100th Birthday Celebration What an incredible milestone! Please join us as we celebrate Adeline's 100th Birthday on: Monday, September 21, 2026 2:00 PM We look forward to honoring this special occasion with family, friends, and fellow residents. Please see the attached flyer for additional details. Community Garage Sale Start gathering those treasures! Thursday, October 15, 2026 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM Happy Hour to Follow Residents and families are encouraged to reserve a table and sell items in exchange for donations. All proceeds will benefit the Alzheimer's Association. If you would like to donate items for the sale, donations may be brought to the Activity Room beginning October 1st. Please speak with Mallory if you would like to participate, reserve a table, or donate items. Please see the attached flyer for complete details. Please Welcome Our New Hairdresser! We are excited to welcome Sara, our new hairdresser, to Bickford of Gurnee! Her next available salon day will be: Thursday, September 24, 2026 If you would like to schedule an appointment for your loved one, please contact Mallory. Fall Vaccination Information As we prepare for the upcoming flu and respiratory illness season, please note the following vaccination updates: COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic COVID vaccine consent forms have been placed in residents' mailboxes. October 15, 2026 9:00 AM Residents interested in receiving the COVID vaccine should complete the appropriate consent form and contact Alonda with any questions. Flu Vaccination Clinic Flu vaccine consent forms were due on September 3, 2026. If you have questions regarding flu vaccinations, please contact Alonda. Walk to End Alzheimer's - Lake County We are proud to support the fight against Alzheimer's disease and invite families, friends, and community members to participate in this meaningful event. Saturday, September 26, 2026 Event Schedule • Registration: 9:00 AM • Opening Ceremony: 10:00 AM • Walk Begins: 10:30 AM Location Independence Grove Forest Preserve 16400 West Buckley Road Libertyville, IL 60048 Route Options • 2.5-Mile Main Route • Short Route (Under 1 Mile) The event will take place rain or shine. Whether you choose to walk, volunteer, or donate, your support helps advance Alzheimer's care, support, and research. Important Reminder About Community Outings Residents living in Memory Care are always welcome and encouraged to participate in community outings. For safety and support, a family or designated escort is required for participation. If you would like your loved one to attend an upcoming outing, please speak with Mallory or Christine before signing up so arrangements can be made. Thank You As always, if you have any questions, concerns, or need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out. We are honored to support both you and your loved ones every step of the way. Thank you for being such a valued part of the Bickford family. We appreciate the trust you place in us and look forward to creating many more meaningful moments together this fall. Warm Regards, Christine Lawrence Executive Director Bickford of Gurnee
Savannah Kirk
Sep 11, 2026
Therapy is always more fun when creativity is involved! This week, Christian, one of our Physical Therapists from Fox Therapy, teamed up with a resident for a friendly game of ring toss. What looked like simple fun was actually a great way to work on balance, coordination, strength, and mobility. We love seeing our therapy partners find engaging ways to help residents reach their goals while sharing plenty of smiles along the way. Thank you, Christian and Fox Therapy, for bringing energy, creativity, and excellent care to our community!
Savannah Kirk
Sep 8, 2026
I wanted to share our last few weeks of our Montessori Voting Board at Bickford of Gurnee! It is truly awesome to see such a simple activity bringing our residents in every week to show their personalities. My favorite part has got to be when they start writing in their own preferences and truly thinking outside of the box! In Montessori-based living, choice matters. Our voting board encourages residents to share their preferences, engage with one another, and take an active role in community life. When residents have a voice in decisions, it fosters purpose, independence, and a true sense of belonging. Having our board outside of the bistro gives our residents the perfect talking point as they're walking to and from the dining room, having a snack, or enjoying happy hour on Thursdays. Stay tuned for our next prompt!