Invite Joy

A Guide for Care Facility Directors

Whether a Contagious Joy group has reached out to you about visiting or you’d like to invite one in, this page is your guide. Here you’ll find what to expect, how to help a group succeed, and the benefits your residents and staff will experience.

Contagious Joy groups bring the Good News of Jesus to care facility residents through songs, skits, and plays — at no cost to your facility. The program is entertaining, interactive, filled with enthusiasm by young people and believers in your community who want to make a difference.

“Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.” — James 1:27

Lifted Spirits

When Contagious Joy come in, something remarkable happens. Residents who may feel forgotten or alone discover they are valued and loved and their outlooks become brighter.

“I have seen the elder generations burdens lifted, smiles brighten their days, and voices lifted up in singing. Only God.” — Leica Nissen, Founder

Energy and Movement

Among the many benefits of connecting the younger generation with the older is that young people have a way of bringing energy and increased movement to the residents. The indirect results of the elderly interacting with kids of all ages and adults are increased movement, more time outside their rooms, and greater confidence in their physical abilities.

“I took part in a Contagious Joy play when I was four years old. That was 15 years ago! I still remember my experience to this day. I felt a sense of community and hope and had a lot of fun in the process." Brynn Keiser

Faith Sparked

When residents hear the Good News of Jesus through joyful songs, skits, and heartfelt visits, something stirs inside. Faith is sparked, hope is renewed, and spirits are lifted. As one family member shared after her aunt’s experience with Contagious Joy.

“My Aunt Margie’s greatest happiness was meeting the Contagious Joy team and becoming their friend. It all started when my Aunt was in an assisted living home where she was not happy. Contagious Joy came in and did a play then everything changed. Her outlook became brighter, and her spirits were lifted. It was as if Contagious Joy had sparked her faith. She believed that God works things out for us if we trust in Him. Contagious Joy = trust in God and find happiness in your faith.” — Jeanmarie Stiles

Intergenerational Connection

One of the beautiful things about a Contagious Joy visit is the connections formed between generations. According to The National Resource Center for Engaging Older Adults: “Teenagers and young adults experience improved peer relationships and higher levels of self-esteem and self-confidence. Younger children develop greater social acceptance and increased respect, compassion, and empathy.” There is also an opportunity to learn from your residents.

"Faith once felt distant to me, but through Contagious Joy, God met me in an unexpected way. I built meaningful friendships, found a safe place to grow, and connected with elderly residents in ways I never had before. What began as serving others became a powerful, life-changing exchange between generations." Taylor Breinich

Types of Programs Available

Truth in Motion - Bible Story Skits — Short, engaging stories from Scripture
Faith on Stage - Life Story Plays — Longer dramatic performances with multiple roles
Songs in Action - — Upbeat Songs with Movements

When someone becomes old, frail, lonely, or isolated, God sends people to encourage them and remind them of His love. As you watch the residents’ faces brighten into smiles when visitors perform and interact with them, you will see firsthand God's faithfulness - He is always with us.

Practical Ways to Help

Set up the performance space — Arrange your activities room or common area with space for performers. If available, provide microphones, tables, and chairs as needed
Add to your activities calendar — Schedule the visit and include it when printing the monthly calendar for residents
Post on your activities board — Let residents know just before the upcoming visit so they can look forward to it
Introduce the group to residents — A warm introduction from a familiar staff member helps residents feel comfortable and sets the tone for the visit
Memory Care Residents — Ask the group if they can also perform separately for your memory care residents, giving every resident the opportunity to receive the joy God will bring
Provide a visitor list — Are there residents that do not receive visitors that would benefit from one-on-one visits? After your group visits, share a list of residents who would welcome additional visitors for follow-up visits

Ready to Bring Joy to Your Residents?

The program is offered at no cost — we simply cannot put a cost on bringing your residents this kind of Joy!

Reach out and we will connect your facility with a group that will bless your residents and staff alike.

Stay in Touch

Be sure to stay in touch to schedule future visits.

“And the King will say, ‘I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!’” — Matthew 25:40