The Arbor Company Senior Living Blog

Chris was chosen as our Arbor Star of the Year because he exemplifies the characteristics of a true team player and holds himself accountable to the tenets of the Arbor Service Way. He is truly a warm and caring individual who considers the needs of our Residents as his highest vocation. While Chris can seem quiet and reserved, he is still a vocal advocate for each and every Resident at Arbor Terrace. Having worked as a cook at Arbor Terrace for almost 6 years, Chris does an excellent job in food preparation. He is creative and innovative in his meal presentation and puts many smiles on resident faces with his unique approach to the dining experience.

Lorrie completed her CNA training about three years ago, and was recruited to work at Barrington Terrace by two other employees whom she met at her workplace. She has been here ever since, providing outstanding care and comfort to the Barrington Terrace residents and their families. She was nicknamed “Angel” by one of the Barrington Terrace residents due to her compassionate nature and quiet, caring personality. Lorrie is a reliable team player. She demonstrates compassion with residents and takes time to get to learn all about who they have been.

David is a unique individual and has been a great asset to Arbor Terrace of Knoxville. David has been employed at Arbor Terrace since January of 2008. He has served as a part time utility person in the kitchen and dining room but is always ready and willing to do whatever is asked of him. What makes him a star in the eyes of his fellow employees as well as our residents is his wonderful sense of humor. David is always smiling and has a kind and happy disposition. He is always attentive and aware of the needs of others. He strives to meet those needs quickly and efficiently. His warm friendly way endears him to all who know him. He makes both our residents and staff smile with his humorous words and actions. We all affectionately call him "Super Dave" because he really is a super guy.

Janet Williams goes above and beyond on a daily basis. Many times she stretches outside of her own duties to assist fellow employees or to take care of areas that need attention. During a resident council meeting, a resident raved about the service she received from Janet during a time when Janet was filling in for another staff member who was on vacation. Whenever you see Janet, she always greets you with a friendly smile and a warm hello. Janet’s warmth always makes you feel welcome and can brighten your day – even when you didn’t know you needed it!

Delma was chosen as our Arbor Star of the Year because she truly represents the Arbor Service Way. She lives by the standards and values that help to create a warm and caring environment throughout our community. Delma continues to make the very best “first impression” on our Residents, their family members, and the rest of the team at Arbor Terrace of Chestnut Hill. Although Delma’s primary responsibility is working as a Med Tech in Resident Care, she has a special way of spreading joy throughout the entire community. She is energetic, enthusiastic, and lends a hand in so many ways; no job is too big, or too small, and her smile warms your heart. Our Residents and their family members consistently comment regarding Delma’s positive attitude and caring heart. After 22 years of service, our community is a SPECIAL part of Delma’s life. She considers us a part of her family. When Delma was on a well-deserved vacation last summer, she heard that we were expecting Hurricane Irene to come our way, and she cut her vacation short to return to the community. She played a significant role in keeping our Residents and their families calm with her reassuring and easy manner. Delma has also shared her family with all of us at the community. Her brother in law, niece and daughter are all members of our team. We are so proud of Delma, and very thankful that she is part of our family. She truly is an Arbor Star!

At The Arbor Company, providing educational resources is an important part of how we build deep connections with not only those we serve, but the community at large. Please take advantage of these educational webinars and don’t hesitate to contact us with questions or for more information.

Nisha Patel joined Arbor Terrace Crabapple in June of 2009 at the encouragement of her sister-in-law, Mona. Nisha’s prior college degree did not prepare her for working in the United States. Thus, when Nisha first came to the Crabapple Community the only position available was that of house keeper. Nisha accepted the position without hesitation and with a smile on her face. That smile has never left her face. She has “First Impressions” in the bag. She connects with every resident and goes out of her way to meet their needs regardless of whether it is in her scope of duty or not. As much as Nisha loved her job, the people and co-workers, she continued to yearn for more. Nisha wanted to be more involved with our residents and when she learned that we only hire Certified Nursing Assistants, she set her cap and away she went. Working full time, caring for her son and husband, Nisha added going to school to her very busy schedule. After her graduation she wanted to work in as a Resident Assistant. Richard Brodrick, our Maintenance Director came forward and said, “Give her a job!” We did and have been so much better for it! Nisha is the Star of our Evergreen RA staff. Her accomplishments of PPA, redirection, love, caring and compassion are evident to all.