Newport News, Virginia – October 26, 2023. The Hidenwood, a Retirement Unlimited, Inc. (RUI) senior living community, surprised the company’s longest tenured team member, Pat Foster, with a 10-day Royal Caribbean Alaskan cruise as part of the company’s WOW Moment initiative. Foster has been employed by The Hidenwood since 1986 when RUI opened the community as its 2nd development project.
The Hidenwood team members surprised Foster with a red carpet walk leading to a large box labeled “Team Member WOW Moment” which revealed balloons spelling out “PAT.” Christopher Cook, Senior Executive Director, then handed Foster a gift box with several items cluing her in to the surprise of her Alaskan Trip.
Team members at The Hidenwood knew this would be the perfect way to honor Foster’s loyalty to the community. “This was just a true surprise!” said Foster. “I’ve always wanted to go on an Alaskan cruise. It’s been on my bucket list.”
Foster began her employment at The Hidenwood on June 9, 1986. She now holds the title of Lead Server as she has continued to work in dining throughout her tenure, serving over 2,000 residents in her time at the community. In fact, Foster trained Cook, who was recently promoted to Senior Executive Director, as a server in his first position at The Hidenwood in 2011.
“It is with immense pride that we acknowledge Pat Foster’s remarkable 37-year presence in our community through RUI’s Team Member WOW Moment program,” said Cook. “Her unwavering
commitment and dedication have never faltered, consistently exemplifying our vision of providing our
residents with the lifestyle they have earned and deserve.
RUI has been honoring its staff and residents with special moments since it opened its first community in 1982. However, the official WOW Moment program started five years ago to provide residents with an experience that is incredibly personal to who they are and what they value. Whether it is a moment that allows residents to rekindle an old passion or an event where residents are honored for their contribution to society, RUI holds the standard that these stories trigger that “WOW” reaction. Team member WOW Moments officially began July of this year as the communities strive to recognize their outstanding team members with experiences that they will never forget.
The Hidenwood community focuses on purposeful living offering independent living, assisted living, and Inspiritás-memory care options. With a conglomerate of Signature Programs, RUI’s offerings include RUI University, a lifelong learning program; Care Impact, companion care; LUXE Unlimited, salon and spa; Taste of RUI, culinary experience, catering, and event service; and RUI Fit, a personalized fitness program.
Retirement Unlimited, Inc. (RUI) Retirement Unlimited, Inc. (RUI) is owned and operated by the Virginia families of Fralin and Waldron. Led by its third generation of Fralins and second generation of Waldrons, RUI currently has 26 senior living communities throughout Virginia, Florida, and North Carolina with several active development projects. Their communities offer independent living, assisted living, and memory care – Inspiritás as well as a full spectrum of life enrichment programs.
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Contact:
Beth Kolnok
Senior Vice President of Sales, Marketing, and Engagement
Retirement Unlimited, Inc.
540-728-0093
[email protected]
www.rui.net
