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During the early, lonely days of the pandemic, a resident spoke these words as a message to an unknown friend sending letters to residents. A Facebook message had generated hundreds of letters from across the U.S. – Champions for the residents of Clark. By definition, a champion is a person who fights on behalf of someone else – an advocate, supporter, defender, protector. We can call each and every staff member here a Champion, fighting the virus and fulfilling our mission.
Every day, amazing people are doing incredible and compassionate acts of care and protection, gestures of kindness to bring joy, and creativity to bring smiles. There are so many unsung champions at Clark whose primary motive is the health, safety and well-being of residents. A common statement you will hear is, “I just love my residents – I will do anything for them.” Although we cannot feature them all, we would like you to meet some of these remarkable individuals.
Sheena has been with Clark for one year and she shared why she adores working here: “The culture at Clark is unmatched. Everything we do is resident focused.” Sheena continues, “It’s important to cook the very best for seniors, because they rely on us. We need to make sure it’s something that they would cook for themselves.”
Michelle has worked 22 years with Clark, including the kitchen, pantry, dining services, and as a care partner in Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing. She enjoys working at Clark and all of the personal attention she can give as a care partner. “I love the lasting impressions that I can make on residents, and one of my favorite things is having residents ask for me by name.”
Carlos has been at Clark for 10 years. With experience in dining services, housekeeping, and Atrio, he truly understands what it takes to serve our residents with the utmost care. “I enjoy doing anything that the residents need.
I help them with their phones or iPads, whatever they ask.”
Sheila has worked here for 34 years. “I find gratitude in making the lives of residents better and helping them accomplish things.” One of her favorite memories is making Thanksgiving dinners with residents. “Clark has always been an exceptional place for families to feel confident that their loved ones are being well taken care of.”
Brad makes sure that things get done for Clark residents. He heard about Clark through his cousin and has been here for seven years. “I enjoy seeing many residents every day and having different projects to work on,” Brad remarks. “I love being appreciated by staff and residents; it brings a smile to my face.”
Eunice has been at Clark for 24 years. She’s been in various departments including floor care, dining services, laundry, and now, housekeeping. She’s enjoyed serving residents in Skilled Nursing, the Towne Homes, and currently Terrace Apartments. “The residents are nice and friendly,” Eunice says. “They trust me, and that’s what makes it pleasant being here.”
Senada came to Clark in 2000, moving to West Michigan from Bosnia. She was a nurse in her home country, but had to go back to school to obtain her CNA – Certified Nursing Assistant degree. “I try to think each and every day how residents might be feeling and how I can give the best care, so they can reach their goals.”
Over the past three years, Donna’s smiling face has been synonymous with the Franklin Chatterbox. Donna serves up delicious food to residents and very much enjoys interacting with staff. “I love decorating the Chatterbox for the seasons and holidays. Spirit week is my favorite!”
Stacy learned about Clark from a student who raved about the community, and when a job became available four years ago, she jumped at it. “I love that there is never a dull moment. I could write a book with all of the wonderful things that happen daily.” This year, Stacy especially enjoyed helping residents and their families during window visits.
Christina has been at Clark for five years, and came to us after graduating from Grand Valley State University. She had just finished her clinical at Beaumont Hospital in Troy, Michigan. “I just love that Clark is on the cutting edge, with new ideas. I also appreciate how Clark is so resident centered. It keeps me going.”