“My family and I were accepted as refugees from a fascist country and we are forever grateful.”

For resident Hernan Poza, those words capture what America has meant to him ever since he arrived here seeking freedom and a new beginning.

As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, Hernan is one of many Pomperaug Woods residents reflecting on what this country has meant to their lives — and why gratitude remains the common thread running through so many of their stories.

To commemorate the milestone anniversary, Activities Assistant Bonnie Early asked residents one simple question: What does America mean to you? The answers revealed stories spanning generations of immigration, sacrifice, opportunity, gratitude, and hope.

“I was deeply moved by what residents shared,” Bonnie said. “Many talked about parents and grandparents who came here searching for a better life. Others spoke about freedom, opportunity, and the ability to build a future for their families. There was so much gratitude in every conversation. Listening to their stories reminded me that America isn’t just a place — it’s millions of personal journeys, and so many of those journeys are represented right here at Pomperaug Woods.”

As residents shared memories, Pomperaug Woods is preparing to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary together. Throughout the holiday week, Pomperaug Woods will be filled with patriotic spirit. Flags and bunting will adorn community spaces, residents will gather around the flagpole to sing the National Anthem, and friends and neighbors will come together under the big tent on July 4th for a festive picnic, featuring all the holiday favorites. The celebration continues on July 5th with a spirited sing-along of beloved American classics.

“What I love most about this celebration is seeing everyone come together,” said Lisa Huebenthal, Director of Community Life. “The decorations, the picnic, the music, the flag ceremony — those are wonderful traditions. But what makes this holiday truly special is hearing the stories behind the people in this community. So many of our residents have incredible life experiences, and when they share what America means to them, you can’t help but feel grateful. It’s a beautiful reminder of how fortunate we are and how much we have to celebrate together.”

Their reflections reveal a powerful common thread: gratitude.

“To me, America means kindness and fairness to ALL,” said resident Joe Longo.

“We are a country where anyone from anywhere can come to fulfill their hopes and dreams,” said resident Sandy Milkes. “But more importantly, we enjoy the freedom to speak our minds without fear of reprisal by the government, and to live our lives as we see fit. I thank God and my parents for coming to this great land!”

For resident Fran Poza, America’s promise can be seen through generations of her family. “America accepted my parents into this country, and they were always grateful for the lives they were able to live. Their daughters and grandchildren have successfully achieved the American dream.”

Resident Carol Villamana reflected on the importance of unity. “America isn’t just a flag or a piece of land, but the everyday people, neighbors, and freedoms we share. What truly matters in America is our ability to live together with mutual respect regardless of our backgrounds.”

For resident Rita Frost, the answer was simple. “America means freedom! We live in the greatest country offering opportunity to all. Freedom of expression and freedom of religion is available to all of us.”

And resident Joel Abramson captured the spirit of countless immigrant families. “America means the world to me! My grandparents came to America with nothing but high hopes. Because of their grit and the work ethic of my parents, I have everything. They would be astonished! America is the land of opportunity. I am so grateful, so lucky, and so proud to be able to call myself an American. God Bless America!”

As neighbors gather beneath waving flags this Independence Day, they will be celebrating more than an historic anniversary. They will be celebrating the stories, sacrifices, dreams, and opportunities that connect generations of Americans — and the remarkable residents whose lives continue to bring those ideals to life every day at Pomperaug Woods.

We invite you to experience Pomperaug Woods personally. Join us for lunch, tour the community, meet the residents, and see firsthand why so many choose to call it home.

Click here or call 203-936-8985 to schedule your private visit today!