August 28, 2024 Submitted by Linden ponds
For Zephorene “Zeph” Helmreich, moving to Linden Ponds, an Erickson Senior Living community in Hingham, Mass., led not only to personal fulfillment, but also to a partner for life.
Six months after her move in 2021, Zeph spent part of her birthday at the weekly dinner of the community’s Global Warming Action Group, where she was seated next to resident Paul Sprecher. The two quickly hit it off, talking for hours about their shared interest in sustainability and the environment.
Two years later, the couple married, surrounded by many of their neighbors. “Most of the people at our wedding were friends we’ve made at Linden Ponds,” says Zeph.
Now, Zeph and Paul are making the most of their carefree lifestyle by utilizing the community’s industry-leading amenities and participating in numerous clubs and activities.
“There are many more things to enjoy at Linden Ponds than I could ever do staying in my house!” says Zeph.
Share your talents
Zeph’s calendar is filled with practice sessions and shows for a variety of Linden Ponds’ performance groups. She is a member of the Chorale, the Linden Ponds Repertory Company, Readers Theater, and the Linden Ponds Ringers and Singers.
“Zeph is famous at Linden Ponds as a star of the stage,” says Paul. “She recently played the role of the reporter in the Repertory Company’s production of Damn Yankees and the Fairy Godmother of Ill Repute in Fractured Fairy Tales. Many of our neighbors recognize her for her singing and acting.”
In addition to her time spent on stage, Zeph is active in the Linden Ponds Community Church, the Environmental Committee, the Political Interest Committee, and the Linden Ponds 20th Anniversary Committee.
“There are so many opportunities to explore interests and meet wonderful people,” she says.
Giving back
Paul also keeps a busy schedule, volunteering his time both on and off campus.
“One of the things that attracted me to Paul is his commitment to community,” says Zeph. “He’s active both at Linden Ponds and within the town of Hingham.”
Paul currently serves as chair of the Resident Advisory Council (RAC) and as liaison to the Resident Life Committee.
“Linden Ponds is a very stimulating community,” he says. “There is so much to engage yourself in. There are numerous opportunities to meet new people, explore ideas, and try things you’ve never done.”
“Recently,” he adds, “we created a committee focused on welcoming new residents. Our goal is to ensure that we provide an optimal experience for our new neighbors, so that they may easily meet people and participate in community life.”
Paul also participates in coalitions with other Erickson Senior Living communities, setting up several chairs and RAC liaisons to discuss communication, finance, and sustainability. In Hingham, he is a member of the town’s Energy Action Committee, closely observes the Hingham Climate Action Commission, and is a member of the Hingham Net Zero activist group.
Learning and growing
Always eager to explore new ideas, Paul also participates in several educational groups at Linden Ponds, including the Men’s Discussion Group and Great Decisions. Together, the couple attend discussion groups and the community’s lifelong learning classes.
“We love going to the classes,” says Zeph. “They are fascinating and provide so much information. In fact, the lifelong learning classes are one of the reasons we moved to Linden Ponds.”
The couple also belongs to the Born in the 1950s group. “It represents the growing number of younger residents moving to Linden Ponds,” says Molly Lynch St. John, community services manager. “There’s no shortage of ways for residents to connect with their neighbors.”
The couple find that dining at the on-campus restaurants is the best way for new residents to make connections. So, together, they volunteer with the new Dining Buddies program, designed to welcome newcomers to the community. They also host a monthly dinner for their hallmates.
“Once I learn a little about a person, I suggest a club or group they may like,” says Zeph. “Linden Ponds is a wonderful community filled with fascinating, warm people. I believe it’s best to move when you are active and able to enjoy all the wonderful activities.”
‘Rich, full life’
Just as Paul and Zeph found each other by pursuing a shared interest, the couple is continually expanding their circle of friends by joining clubs and activities that catch their eye.
“Meeting and interacting with our neighbors are what makes life at Linden Ponds so pleasant,” says Zeph. “Our community is made up of a wide variety of people. Everyone here has a fascinating story. Sharing these stories creates the rich, full life we enjoy here. I feel very fortunate to live here!”
To learn more about the benefits of moving to a maintenance-free community, request more information today.