WCHS DECA Students Bring Comfort and Connection to Shenandoah Senior Living with New Memory Care Garden

In November, Warren County High School DECA students Kiara Wiles and Skylar Deslongchamps combined their entrepreneurial skills and compassion to create a Memory Care Garden at Shenandoah Senior Living. The project, which aimed to improve the lives of residents with memory-related conditions, transformed an outdoor space into a calming and therapeutic environment.

Project Coordinators (L – R) Kiara Wiles and Skylar Deslongchamps with Resident Services Director Shiloh Cockrell

The garden includes sensory-rich plants, inviting seating areas, and open spaces to encourage relaxation and social interaction. Kiara and Skylar showcased the positive impact of youth leadership by blending entrepreneurship with a heartfelt community initiative.

The students worked closely with the WCHS Agriculture Education Department, Future Farmers of America (FFA), and local businesses to bring their vision to life. Kiara expressed the motivation behind their efforts, saying, “We wanted to create a more peaceful environment for the residents, thereby improving their quality of life.”

The transformation of the garden involved thoughtful planning and collaboration. Before the project, the area lacked the inviting atmosphere that residents and visitors now enjoy. The students turned their ideas into reality with dedication and teamwork, leaving a lasting legacy of comfort and connection.

Memory Care Garden (Before)

Memory Care Garden (After)

Memory Care Garden – Atrium Entrance

This initiative highlights the potential for young leaders to make meaningful contributions to their communities. Combining skills learned through DECA with a passion for service, Kiara and Skylar have created a space that will benefit residents for years.