By Debra McLaughlin
For Friends of Nathaniel Witherell, every season is a chance to build community around the residents of The Nathaniel Witherell — and this October, that commitment took on a festive, Halloween twist.
The nonprofit — founded in 2004 to enhance life for the residents of the Town-owned Nathaniel Witherell rehabilitation and skilled nursing center — participated in River House’s Community Trunk or Treat event on Friday, October 24. The family-friendly evening welcomed the public for pumpkin decorating, warm apple cider, and a lively lineup of community organizations lining the parking circle with decorated cars and candy.
Friends of Nathaniel Witherell joined the event not for treats, but for what they value most: human connection. In addition to its well-known work inside the Witherell — bringing monthly art exhibits, live music, volunteer programs, and quality-of-life enhancements to residents — Friends believes strongly in showing up for the broader Greenwich community that supports its mission.
“Community visibility matters,” says the Friends board. “Events like this aren’t just fun — they strengthen the bridge between the town and the residents who once were the town.”
That “bridge-building” is core to Friends’ work. Over the past year, Friends has:
* Curated monthly rotating art shows featuring local artists, giving residents new work to enjoy and artists new audiences
* Coordinated a robust volunteer corps — students, retirees, and everyone in between — who log more than 160 service shifts a month supporting activities, chapel services, the salon, art classes, and concerts
* Produced music programs, seasonal events, and experiences that create joy, dignity, and social connection for residents
By participating in the Trunk or Treat, Friends brought its mission outside the Witherell walls — introducing neighbors, families, and children to a nonprofit that is quickly becoming a steadfast community partner in Greenwich.
“As people learn what Friends does,” the board notes, “they understand why it matters that Witherell residents are not forgotten — and why it takes all of us to make sure they stay connected to the world around them.”
To learn more or get involved, visit friendsofnathanielwitherell.org. For the latest updates, stories, and ways to support, follow Friends of Nathaniel Witherell on Instagram @friendsofnathanielwitherell.
