STERLING – Jacam Chemicals came bearing gifts for Sterling Village elders last year at Christmastime but its generosity didn’t stop there.

            Jacam has pledged to help with some special projects when possible, said Lisa Valentine, Sterling Village community liaison.

            “Jacam has offered its maintenance crew for projects that need extra pairs of hands,” Valentine said. “We have a great maintenance staff in-house tending to day-to-day needs. But sometimes they need a little help with bigger projects.

“The company kind of adopted our elders and has become a valued community partner,” Valentine added. “We are thrilled with their attentiveness to our needs. Jacam shares in our mission to support elders in our community.”

            One example of this support is the recent project to replace countertops in the dining area at Sterling Village.

            Tara Stewart, Jacam manufacturing plant process safety coordinator, noted the company is aware Sterling Village has limitations on funding and maintenance personnel.

            “We have a few people with special talents that like to assist the community,” Stewart said. “So, this seemed like a good way to help.”

            When Valentine mentioned the countertop project, Jacam maintenance personnel visited the long-term-care residence, 204 W. Washington, to evaluate the situation.

            “The best solution was to replace the damaged countertops,” Stewart said. “We want to jump in and help when we can.”

            Christmas presents from Jacam last year included four custom-made fidget boards for some Sterling Village elders. People with dementia often develop restless behaviors such as fidgeting and pacing.

            Fidget boards help elders focus their attention by offering a distraction from frustrating situations.

            “Our guys at Jacam did an amazing job creating the fidget boards,” Stewart said.

            Jacam also donated three weighted blankets that help people who are anxious. The heaviness of the covers allows elders to feel like they are receiving a calming hug.

            “Paying it forward is a large part of the Jacam family,” Stewart commented. “We strive to help people all year long. Some of our employees have family at Sterling Village and we learned this is where our help was needed.

            “We encourage other businesses and individuals to support Sterling Village and other local organizations that may need a helping hand. This helps build great relationships within the community.”