“It’s all about our people,” says Tracie Bettano, executive director of Brooksby Village, the Erickson Senior Living community in Peabody, Mass.
From the knowledgeable sales associate who helps you find the perfect apartment home to the fitness trainer who motivates you to reach your goals to the enthusiastic servers at your favorite on-campus restaurant, it’s the staff members who make Brooksby such a great place to live.
“Everybody knows each other by their first names,” says resident Lois Whippen. “There’s definitely a camaraderie between residents and staff here – there’s no question.”
Critical communication
Lois, who moved to Brooksby three years ago from Salem, N.H., quickly embraced the community’s social lifestyle, making tight-knit relationships of her own.
“The previous chair of the Resident Advisory Council [RAC] hosted a meet-and-greet for everyone who lives in my residence building. I went because I wanted to meet people and get involved in the community,” Lois recalls. “She tapped me on the shoulder and said, ‘I’d like to have a chat with you.’ And the rest is history!”
Now, as an active RAC member, Lois interacts and collaborates with Brooksby staffers on a regular basis.
“The communication between me, my fellow RAC members, and management is critical – and is in very good shape,” notes Lois. “Our recent Unity in the Community festival was extremely successful, and everybody got involved.”
The all-day event featured a parade, booths, and entertainment, as well as musical performances from staff members and residents.
“More than 700 people came through and enjoyed the festival. Everybody said they loved it!” says Lois.
‘Best in the business’
Erickson Senior Living and its national network of communities strive to hire the best talent in the industry to provide an excellent resident experience.
“Senior living should be considered a destination for career-driven people who possess a passion for serving others,” notes Alan Butler, CEO of Erickson Senior Living. “We continue to innovate and train our workforce because the services we offer to residents are only as good as the people who provide them. I am confident that we have the best in the business working for Erickson.”
Bettano couldn’t agree more with Butler’s sentiment.
“Our talented, dedicated team, combined with our engaged, active residents, truly makes Brooksby a special place to live and to work,” she says. “Everyone works together in alignment with our mission and our values, creating a welcoming atmosphere that allows everyone to live enhanced, rewarding lives.”
Many people choose to work at Brooksby – and continue extending their careers with Erickson Senior Living – because of the many opportunities for professional and personal growth.
Career growth
Gina Fernandez, a Peabody native, joined Brooksby’s dining services team as a high school student. Now, 20 years later, she oversees the community’s sales team as sales director. She notes that her career development contributes greatly to her job satisfaction.
“I have continually been offered opportunities for training and advancement here at Brooksby,” Fernandez says. “I look forward to coming to work every day! The engagement between our terrific employees and our wonderful residents creates a warm, cohesive community.”
As a result of their care and genuine interest, Brooksby’s employees make a profound difference in the lives of residents.
“Residents often share how much their lives have been enhanced through creative acts of kindness,” adds Bettano. “Maybe a fitness trainer offered some encouragement, a custom interiors coordinator found an innovative design solution, or a restaurant’s general manager made a special occasion memorable.”
Forming meaningful relationships
Lois notes that residents and employees collaborate in other ways, as well, working together on important community projects such as diversity, inclusion, and belonging committees and the annual Student Scholarships.
“The relationships that staff members and residents form are unique,” adds Bettano. “There’s a level of mutual respect and appreciation that just can’t be beat.”
If you are contemplating a move to senior living, just as Lois was, consider the advantages of having kindhearted staff members support you in all aspects of life.
Invest in your future self at Brooksby Village. From top-notch amenities to affordable, maintenance-free apartment homes, you are sure to live your retirement to the fullest. Request more information today!
