At Sun City Gardens, life is meant to be lived fully, joyfully, and with purpose. Located in the Sun City neighborhood of Menifee, CA, our community offers Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Respite Care, and 55+ Apartments—all supported by a vibrant approach to senior living activities in Menifee, CA that encourages connection, engagement, and personal fulfillment.
From social gatherings and creative programs to meaningful one-on-one engagement, activities play a vital role in daily life at Sun City Gardens. Our activities program is thoughtfully designed to support residents at every level of care, creating opportunities for movement, socialization, and joy. At the heart of it all is a dedicated team that understands how important routine, connection, and purpose are at every stage of life—especially our Activities Assistant, Craig Custodero, who brings energy and encouragement to residents every single day.
Supporting Engagement Through Everyday Moments
The activities program at Sun City Gardens is about more than filling a calendar—it’s about meeting residents where they are and motivating them to participate in ways that feel comfortable, fun, and meaningful. This personalized approach is what sets our senior living activities in Menifee, CA apart.
1. Can you share a little about your role and what you do in your position?
As the Activities Assistant, I help motivate and encourage residents to participate in activities every day.
This motivation is key to building confidence and fostering social connections, especially for residents who may be new to the community or adjusting to a new routine.
A Heart for Senior Living
Working in senior living often starts with a desire to help others—and that’s exactly what drew Craig to this field. His approach to activities reflects a genuine commitment to helping residents feel valued and supported.
2. What inspired you to work in senior living or join this industry?
I was inspired to work in the senior living industry because of my desire to help others and make them feel valued.
That sense of purpose carries through every interaction, helping residents feel seen, supported, and encouraged to engage at their own pace.
Creating a Positive, Welcoming Environment
A successful activities program thrives in a positive environment, and Craig highlights how collaboration with both residents and fellow staff members plays a big role in his enjoyment of the job.
3. What do you enjoy most about your job?
I really enjoy the environment here at Sun City Gardens and being able to work with both staff and residents.
This teamwork helps ensure activities are not only enjoyable, but also thoughtfully planned to support residents’ interests, abilities, and overall well-being.
What a Day in Activities Really Looks Like
No two days are exactly the same in an active senior living community. From morning interactions to afternoon programs and casual check-ins, engagement is ongoing throughout the day.
4. What does a typical day look like for you?
From the moment I walk through the door, I’m always interacting with residents.
That consistent presence helps build trust and familiarity, which is especially important in Memory Care, where routine and connection can make a meaningful difference.
A Team That Works Together
Behind every successful activities program is a team that supports one another. At Sun City Gardens, collaboration and communication are part of the culture.
5. How would you describe the team culture where you work?
The strong bond among staff is a reflection of our amazing team culture.
This strong bond allows the team to work seamlessly across departments, ensuring residents receive well-rounded support throughout their day.
Listening to What Matters Most to Residents
Activities are most successful when residents feel heard. Craig emphasizes that open communication plays a major role in shaping programming that truly resonates.
6. What is one thing you feel makes this community special for residents?
Our open communication and willingness to listen to resident concerns are what really makes our community stand out.
By listening closely, the team can adapt activities to better reflect residents’ preferences, interests, and comfort levels—an essential part of delivering meaningful senior living activities in Menifee, CA.
Meaningful Moments That Make an Impact
Some of the most powerful moments in senior living come from seeing the positive impact engagement has—not just on residents, but on their families as well.
7. What is a favorite memory or moment you’ve shared with a resident or coworker?
One of my favorite moments was when a memory care resident’s family expressed how much they appreciated how engaging and compassionate our program is.
These moments reinforce just how important thoughtful activities and genuine connection are, especially within Memory Care.
The Energy Behind a Great Activities Program
Bringing enthusiasm to each day is essential when working closely with residents, and Craig believes energy and readiness are key to success.
8. What skills or qualities do you think are most important in your role?
Being energetic and ready to work everyday!
That energy helps set the tone for activities and encourages residents to participate and enjoy the moment.
Life Beyond the Community
Outside of work, Craig enjoys staying active—something that naturally complements his role in encouraging movement and engagement among residents.
9. What do you enjoy doing outside of work? Any hobbies or fun facts you’d like to share?
I enjoy skiing and hiking in my free time.
Why the Work Matters
At the end of the day, it’s the shared sense of purpose and teamwork that makes working in activities so rewarding.
10. What’s the most rewarding part of being part of this team?
I would say the most rewarding part is the way everyone works so well together and the positive environment.
Experience the Difference at Sun City Gardens
The activities program at Sun City Gardens is designed to foster connection, joy, and purpose—no matter where residents are in their journey. Through engaging programs, compassionate care, and a dedicated team, our approach to senior living activities in Menifee, CA helps residents stay active, social, and involved in ways that feel meaningful to them.
If you’re exploring senior living in Menifee, CA, we invite you to learn more about Sun City Gardens and see how our activities program helps residents thrive every day.
