Ice Cream Connection

Sometimes the best connections happen when you least expect them— like at the ice cream social the City of Scottsdale held for the Foothills Caring Corps neighbors in August.

With sundaes piled high with all the toppings, plus games and raffles, it was already shaping up to be a fun afternoon at The Holland Center. But for one guest, the day held something extra special.

Shirley, attending her very first Caring Corps outing, was placing her ice cream order with Maria, one of the City of Scottsdale’s staff. Something about Maria’s face sparked a memory, and Shirley asked if she had once worked for the City of Phoenix.

When Maria said yes, Shirley’s eyes lit up. “I hired you back in 1978!” she exclaimed.

And just like that, time melted away.

Shirley had been Maria’s very first boss at the City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department. She was known for her tough-love. Her catchphrases included “You’re good, but never that good” and “My way or the highway.” Maria laughs about it now, remembering her as the toughest boss she ever had. But more than that, Shirley was a mentor who shaped Maria’s entire career. With Shirley’s guidance, Maria rose through the ranks and eventually retired in 2008, grateful for the lessons she carried with her.

Shirley had retired years earlier, in 1991, and neither woman expected their paths to cross again. Yet here they were, reunited over ice cream at The Holland Center. They shared hugs, swapped stories, and exchanged phone numbers, promising to stay in touch.

It was a reunion nearly 50 years in the making—and a beautiful reminder of what we hold dear at The Holland Center: connection is more than a mission statement; it’s what turns a simple ice cream social into a moment that will not be forgotten.

Please consider donating as little as $15 a month to ensure we have many, many more impactful stories like this one to tell. Give here: https://hollandcenter.org/monthlygiving/