As I step into the day center at Community Living each morning, my role as a manager immediately kicks into gear. I’m Annie, and over the years, I've moved from an intern to a coordinator and now to managing this vibrant space where we ensure a safe, positive environment for our clients.
My day starts early, usually around 7:45 AM. First, I prepare the staff schedule, ensuring everyone knows their roles for the day, whether it's accompanying clients on community outings, assisting in personal care, or leading group activities. I treasure those quiet moments before the hustle begins, where I sit with early arrivals, chatting and connecting over a cup of coffee. By 8:30, everyone's in place, and the center buzzes with activity.
Setting a positive tone from the outset is crucial. I make it a point to greet each staff member, asking about their well-being and offering a listening ear. This job, emotionally and physically demanding, needs a strong support system, and I strive to be that for my team.
“I always make sure to ask them if they are okay if I notice they aren’t themselves,”
Throughout the day, my tasks vary greatly. I'm in constant communication with families, therapists, case managers, and staff. The creation of daily schedules and responding to any arising questions or concerns keep me on my toes. No two days are alike. Some are challenging, especially when emergencies like seizures occur, requiring immediate medical attention. The bonds we build with our clients make these moments intensely personal and hard.
Collaboration is the backbone of our operations. I view myself not just as the manager but as part of a cohesive unit that includes our dedicated Direct Support Professionals (DSPs). Regular meetings and open dialogues help us understand each other’s goals and strengths, which in turn, enhances our teamwork and the quality of care we provide.
A recent collaboration that stands out involved the whole team preparing for an annual marketplace meeting where we showcased our unique programs to potential sponsors. Engaging with our clients directly during these sessions adds a level of authenticity and impact to our presentations.
The work environment here is dynamic. My desk sits in an open area where I can interact freely with both staff and participants. The lively atmosphere, often filled with music and laughter, is my favorite aspect. This environment reflects our commitment to making every day enjoyable and fulfilling for our clients.
Community Living supports work-life balance vigorously, encouraging us to maintain a healthy split between our professional and personal lives. This support was evident when I participated in the Athena Leadership Program as a mentee and later as a mentor, significantly enhancing my managerial skills.
Our office culture is enriched with unique traditions and perks. For instance, hosting a tattoo and karaoke day or spontaneous dance sessions are just some ways we keep the environment lively and engaging. These activities not only bring joy to our clients but also foster a sense of community and camaraderie among the staff.
Facing challenges, such as dealing with the emotional aspects of client care, particularly aging or loss, requires resilience. The support and training provided by Community Living equip us to handle these situations with compassion and professionalism.
“You build strong bonds with those you support, and you care about them deeply,”
Reflecting on my journey with Community Living, the advice I’d give to anyone considering a role here is to embrace every learning opportunity and to genuinely engage with the mission and the people. Working here has profoundly impacted my career and personal life, teaching me invaluable lessons in caregiving and advocacy, which were crucial during my father’s dementia care.
Every day at Community Living brings new challenges and achievements, but the real reward is seeing the difference we make in the lives of our clients, providing them not just care but a community where they can thrive.
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