It was a picture-perfect summer’s day on Saturday, July 21st, for Seniors Helping Seniors of Greater Boston and Metrowest’s fourth annual Employee Appreciation Barbecue. More than 60 caregivers gathered under the pavilion at Mass Audubon’s Drumlin Farm in Lincoln to feast on traditional barbecue fare, cake and ice cream.

Hosted by the SHS office staff, the summer celebration is held annually in appreciation of our caregivers’ hard work and dedication in support of their clients. Many of SHS’s newer caregivers were attendance, along with long-time employees and guests.

The barbecue is one of numerous networking events held for SHS caregivers throughout the year. Though it’s a day for caregivers to enjoy a carefree afternoon, meet and connect with colleagues, and have fun, the chatter invariably turns to shop talk as caregivers share strategies for working with clients, especially those with dementia. Like other SHS events, the barbecue is an opportunity for caregivers to pick up useful tips and ideas that they can bring back and use with their own clients.

For the office staff, it was gratifying to see so many caregivers gathered in one place at the same time, mingling, laughing, and enjoying each other’s good company. The caregivers were grateful as well: Exclaimed one: “What a wonderful barbecue; thanks to all of you. A great day for seniors!”