The Eden Alternative is thriving at Levindale. We're proud to say that we're the first registered Eden Alternative facility in Maryland.

The goal of Eden is to eliminate loneliness, helplessness and boredom from the daily lives of our residents. We do this by infusing life into our facility. It is a process that can take years to really blossom, but we have already implemented changes and are seeing a positive impact in the quality of our residents' lives.

Here's what we've done and will continue to develop:

• Regular interaction with children
  There are two playgrounds and a gazebo area, which helps foster such interaction.
• Interaction with and care for pets that will live here
  Dogs, cats, and birds live at Levindale. Taking care of pets gives residents a sense of purpose and they are a wonderful source of companionship.
• Care for abundant plants, gardens and flowers
  A horticultural therapist leads several gardening clubs. These groups are extremely popular among the residents because they have the opportunity to plant flowers, vegetables (we now have wheelchair-accessible gardens on mobile cards), and even trees on the grounds of Levindale. The gardening clubs also participate in making flower arrangements for sicker patients/residents and make such things as potpourri and pressed flower bookmarks. A greenhouse was built, which further enhances the horticultural activities.
• The establishment of "kibbutz" groups
  Part of the Eden Alternative mission is to create a family atmosphere, where small groups are formed (we call them "kibbutzim"). These groups meet regularly to become better acquainted and to help each other with the challenges of daily living. Each kibbutz decides what kind of pet to bring into their family, or not, if the family agrees not to have one. Kibbutz facilitators assigned to each kibbutz conduct the meetings, and issues like problem solving and team building are discussed.
• Dining rooms
  Residents have restaurant-style choices and a lovely ambience, to enhance the dining experience.
• Spontaneity and fun are essential components of a successful Eden facility.
  We are always looking for ways to involve the residents in something a little out of the ordinary. Our diverse Therapeutic Recreation program also provides an outlet through music therapy, dance therapy, pottery, exercise, reminiscences, Russian culture, drama, movies, noontime charts, Jeopardy, Bingo, positive thinkers groups and weekly birthday parties.

The success of the Eden Alternative depends on community support. We are actively seeking volunteers and funds for the expenses involved in expanding our Eden activities. Ways you can help include donations of pet supplies and flowers and gardening tools. We are also seeking individuals who can take pets for a short respite stay away from Levindale. There are any other ways to help make life worth living for Levindale residents. You can make a difference.