2025 Away from Home with Western Home
Join us for one of our upcoming trips that take us to destinations across the country! There’s something for everyone, so check out the trips below and inquire to learn more.
A Taste of California Wine Country
April 13-19
Registration Open!
Discover the many California workshops, wineries, and farms where the locals make their living from the land! Indulge in wine tastings as you journey along the Sacramento River by rail, discover the charm of quaint villages, and enjoy breathtaking views aboard the MS Dixie II.
Minnesota’s North Country
June 10-13
Registration opens Monday, December 9
Nestled in the heart of Minnesota’s Northwoods, Ely beckons with its rustic charm and natural splendor. Discover the captivating history of local legends, engage with fascinating wildlife, and set sail on a scenic pontoon boat adventure to uncover the awe-inspiring landscapes that define Minnesota’s natural wonder.
Exploring the Canadian Rockies & Glacier National Park
July 5-12
Registration opens Monday, January 6
Encounter wildlife and revel in the beauty of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, waterfalls, and canyons as you explore the landscapes of Alberta and British Columbia. The beauty of four national parks will be revealed as you wind past sparkling lakes by motorcoach and to the top of a mountain by gondola.
Chicago - The Windy City
September 15-18
Registration opens Monday, May 5
Begin your adventure at the inspiring Shrine of Christ’s Passion, where you’ll reflect on its powerful significance before indulging in a unique wine-tasting experience. Then, take in the views of the city’s renowned architecture on a river boat tour, be captivated by the aquatic wonders at the Shedd Aquarium, and enjoy a Broadway show!
Arkansas Adventures
October 7-11
Registration opens Monday, May 12
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Arkansas, where captivating cultural experiences and breathtaking natural beauty await. Marvel at the architectural wonders of iconic chapels, discover rich history, and take in the stunning scenery of the Ozarks on a scenic train excursion!
Holiday Magic in Des Moines
December 4-6
Registration opens Monday, June 23.
Experience the magic of the season in Des Moines, IA, where twinkling lights and holiday events turn the city into a winter wonderland. Explore the historic Hoyt Sherman Place, browse unique gifts at the Christkindlmarket, and stroll through the beautifully illuminated Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden!
Lifestyle Enrichment
Helping seniors be active, engaged in their community, and focused on well-being.
We believe an active lifestyle is a vital part of healthy aging. Lifestyle enrichment programs keep seniors active, engaged in their community, and focused on well-being.
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Your time and talents make a real difference to the people whose lives we touch. Whether you want to work directly with our residents or help keep our programs running smoothly behind the scenes, we offer a myriad ways to help us live out our mission. Explore options below and sign up to get started!
Volunteer Opportunities include:
Help with activities and crafts in our assisted living and nursing areas of care
Accompany residents on group outings such as shopping trips, community band concerts, seasonal city tours and more
Greet guests for events in Diamond Event Center as a member of our Ambassador team
Create crocheted or knitted prayer shawls for our sending services
Read to residents who can no longer read on their own through the Reading with Jean program
Serve as shuttle driver on our south campus
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Bereavement care includes:
Sending Service - A brief time of thanks and goodbye to the family of the deceased. A prayer shawl is given as a keep-sake of their time with us.
Follow up cards and notes written by volunteers sent to family members on important dates in the lives of their family.
Memorial services to honor, remember, and celebrate our resident lives.
Working closely with the spiritual care team, the bereavement team works to ensure educational and supportive resources are available to families we serve. A bereavement fund administered through the Western Home Foundation provides educational resources, cards, and reading material for our residents’ families.
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Intergenerational activities helps everyone have a better understanding of the world around them.
We love when we can partner with local schools for activities, concerts and pen pal relationships! We are actively involved with students from the Center for Advanced Professional Studies (CAPS) at Cedar Valley high schools. The CAPS Legacy Project matches students with residents for one on one discussions. Students and residents learn about how life is today and how it was different when the residents were their age.
The CAPS CNA course provides CAPS students interested in the medical field a chance to earn their CNA certification in the supportive environment of Western Home’s Learn and Earn Center.
Travel Opportunities
Pack your bags and come with us to destinations across the country! The Away From Home with Western Home program offers several travel opportunities April through December. Each year Lifestyle Enrichment team members work with professional travel planners to create tours of varying lengths, destinations and modes of transportation. Recent trips include
Sioux Falls, SD
Springfield, IL
A land tour of Alaska
Nashville, TN
Beach vacation in Myrtle Beach, SC.
You do not need to be a Western Home resident to come along and friends and family are always welcome on the trips!
Get in touch
Carolyn Ayers
Director of Lifestyle Enrichment
