This past Memorial Day marked the beginning of one of the strangest summers in our nation’s history.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all major events and large gatherings were canceled. Most stores, restaurants, and campgrounds remained closed. There were no parades, no concerts. No baseball games. No fireworks.

Yet, the consumers and staff at SERV’s Elizabeth Group Home were determined to make the most of Memorial Day by holding a cookout. This would allow them to commemorate the holiday together without jeopardizing their health and safety.

“I’m glad that in the midst of this chaos, the Elizabeth Group Home leadership and staff found time to celebrate Memorial Day with the residents,” said Bismark Ntow, Regional Director of SERV Achievement. “They were not required to celebrate the day, but they were thoughtful enough to organize a cookout. I appreciate such initiative and commitment.”

Residential Manager Tahesha McCray organized the event, along with Carmen Fernandez, the Assistant Director of the day program. DSP Bilha Ongiri, DSP Tony Kalu, and other staff members prepared the food.

The menu included hotdogs, cheeseburgers, ribs, chicken, macaroni and cheese, tuna salad, deviled eggs, salsa dip, Italian sausages, and chili.

“The pandemic didn’t stop us from enjoying ourselves,” Tahesha McCray said. “The sun was shining, and after months of being cooped-up, it was important for the consumers to venture outside and socialize while using the proper precautions.”

According to McCray, the consumers and staff at the Elizabeth Group Home enjoyed the Memorial Day celebration so much that they’re already planning another cookout.

“It’s difficult, but we have to make the best of this situation,” she added. “Even amid all this awfulness, we are making memories and taking advantage of our time together.”