BRYAN, Texas — Freshly decorated trees; full of ornaments, ribbons and most importantly Christmas lights, fill the lobby at Waldenbrooke Estates in Bryan. The retirement community is putting on its first ever Parade of Trees.
"I just couldn't wait, I was just drawn to come down here to see," said Jodi Loveall. "It brings such joy to my heart."
Parade of Trees has local businesses around the Brazos Valley donating uniquely decorated trees to be auctioned off. With the spirit of giving in the air, Waldenbrooke Estates is donating 100% of the proceeds to the Alzheimer's Association.
"Alzheimer's is responsible for 70% of dementia cases," said Katie Spiegelhauer of HomeSpark. "Currently there is no cure, there are treatments to manage the symptoms, but no cure."
Wednesday through Friday at 5 p.m., people can stop by Waldenbrooke Estates to place bids on their favorite tree to take home. Winners for each of the five trees will be announced Monday.
The retirement community wants the public to know they don't just have to put their name down on a tree to come by. The holiday season is a great to meet some friendly faces at Waldenbrooke Estates.
"Our doors are always open," said Toni Wilson, the marketing director for Waldenbrooke Estates. "(People) can come and go and enjoy whatever we have going on. They can come have meals with us and join any event that we have going."
Just a quick visit could make the worlds difference to one of these seniors
"Just a couple of minutes to hear how their day is going to change their day or week," Karla Summers, the home health coordinator at Texas Home Health Group. "You're just going to brighten them up for the season."