The ‘Women of Windsor' Gather to Share Stories and Unique Experiences

Every March, the country celebrates Women's History Month in honor of women's contributions to American history. At Windsor Run, an Erickson Senior Living community in Matthews, N.C., the effort continues all year long, thanks to the work of a dedicated group of residents.

The Women of Windsor group (WOW) gathers regularly to support each other and the strong, unique bonds they form through lectures, celebrations, and volunteer efforts.

Carol Martinsky, who moved to the community in 2019, serves as cochair of the group.

"I've seen firsthand just how far women have advanced over the years. I clearly remember my mother being so happy and appreciating the fact that she could vote. That stuck with me--the appreciation," Carol says. "Spending time with other women is a great way to share all the great things that women are doing these days."

World of experiences

Since the group's inception in 2022, WOW has been meeting once a month to share stories and enjoy presentations from speakers on a variety of topics. The meetings are open to all women of Windsor Run, including residents, staff members, and visiting experts.  

"The speakers range from residents sharing their life experiences to staff members and outside professionals," says Carol. "I can't describe how much I've learned and how much I've enjoyed each of our speakers. I think it's because we can each relate to experiences of the past. Things have not always been easy for women, but we persevere and do our thing."

Speakers over the last year have included Luanne Imholt, Windsor Run's social worker, speaking on mental and behavioral health; resident Linda Thede sharing maps, pictures, and treasures from her world travels; Kristen Daley, a local doctor, sharing information on women's health; and fitness manager Erin Holm presenting on ways to stay fit and healthy.

Variety of speakers

As a member of the WOW's planning committee, Virginia "Ginny" Bernstorf, who moved to Windsor Run in 2019, helps select the group's guest speakers.

"I'm so grateful to the numerous residents who open windows into their worlds, enchanting us with their courageous endeavors or teaching us important skills," she says. "We also appreciate the members of our staff who present at our meetings, informing us about their backgrounds and aspirations."

Ginny's favorite presentation from this past year was by her neighbor Joan Dickey, who served as a long-term missionary with her husband Vic in Papua, New Guinea.

"Joan dressed in traditional garb and transported us to the mission field, as she displayed memorabilia and explained how her family lived and assisted with the translation of the Bible," says Ginny.

Making a difference

In addition to the group's monthly meetings, WOW members volunteer their time to Operation Christmas Child by lovingly filling shoeboxes with donated toys, school supplies, and hygiene items for children around the world.

"I love to visualize little hands digging into the boxes to discover what we have packed," says Ginny, who leads a team of four WOW members in distributing, collecting, and delivering the boxes to a collection site in late November. "I am grateful to everyone who participates in the project."

Once the boxes are filled and delivered, members of WOW celebrate with a much-anticipated annual cookie exchange.

Supportive community

With over 60 active members, WOW is the largest all-female group at Windsor Run.

"I first joined the group when it began over six years ago," says resident Carol Hannah. "I wanted to meet the other women living here. The group is friendly, always looking for ways to help each other and find interesting things to do. The meetings are interesting and enjoyable."

Carol Martinsky adds, "I really believe that women can relate to each other in a special way. I cannot say enough about the support I've received here. After my husband Joseph died, they reached out with invitations to dinner and shopping. This is the first time in my life that I'm by myself, but I've learned that I'm not by myself. I never expected these strong relationships when I moved here. And in talking with other women, it's the same for them too."

Ginny agrees. "We take great delight in becoming acquainted with the community and the amazing women who are our neighbors," she says. "We have such a positive atmosphere here at Windsor Run. All are welcome to join in on the fun."

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