Cheryl Pavlik: Forging friendships in community spaces

J.J. Carroll House resident Cheryl Pavlik believes creating a sense of community begins with something simple: a comfortable, cozy space where you can sit down, talk, and be yourself. Shared, informal spaces allow people to connect casually and build relationships, one interaction at a time. 

“Community cannot take root without places to meet,” says Cheryl, who highlights the importance of spontaneous interactions. Since moving in, she has connected with many residents via the common spaces on every floor. One of her favorite places is just outside the laundry room, where a seating area allows residents to unwind and socialize while waiting for their laundry. Cheryl says these common areas make the campus feel alive and serve as catalysts for social engagement.

I FEEL SO LUCKY TO BE HERE. EVERY DAY, I FEEL LIKE I HAVE WON THE LOTTERY.
– CHERYL PAVLIK

“As we age, we lose the connections that are so vital to our sense of belonging. We stop working, move away from familiar places and friends, and find ourselves with a lot of time on our hands,” says Cheryl. “I didn’t realize how isolated I was until I moved here. We have so many inviting common areas, and I have spent countless hours in each, getting to know my neighbors. It has been a wonderful experience.” 

Reflecting on her experience, Cheryl adds, “I feel so lucky to be here. Every day, I feel like I have won the lottery. And I am not the only one. I have never been in a place where people are so happy.”