Image of nurses' hands at computer keyboard

“Studies are good because they let us delve into an issue and benchmark other facilities.  We are more hands-on now. You’re a working manager, whereas before you may have been removed from some of these issues. Today you have to understand the global economy.”

Administrator, Denise Caiati, Island Lake Center, Longwood, FL

“Our CNA Career Step Ladder. It’s an internal program with a prescribed curriculum. There’s a track for becoming a CNA 1, CNA 2 and a mentor. I, along with other department heads, teach it. The program helps with retention.”

Administrator, Jeffrey K. Schmidt, Red Oak Rehab and Care Center, Red Oak, IA

“Our parent company, LifeBridge Health, offers a tuition assistance program for both full-time and part-time employees. Courses must be offered by properly accredited academic institutions and be directly related to the employees’ current jobs or jobs to which they may be promoted. Courtland Gardens staff members also take classes through The Beacon Institute, which is the educational arm of LifeSpan Network, the largest senior care provider association in the Mid-Atlantic region. 

We’ve also been participating in webinars. We can learn subject matter without traveling.”
Administrator, Jennifer Labute, Courtland Gardens Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, Randallstown, MD

“Because marketing and sales are often considered the same thing by many senior housing providers, developing sales skills is the most helpful. In our business, it’s selling with soul. I have found an approach that serves not only our sales staff, but also the future resident.” 

Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Bob Werdan, Presbyterian Homes, Evanston, IL

“Sending staff to conferences hosted by Life Services Network and LeadingAge are really helpful because it’s the best way to learn about best practices from actual providers and to become aware of the newest technologies available. The quality of both the speakers and the participants allows for many valuable side conversations about real experiences and real people.

The variety of provider types also allows for unique perspectives and provides inspiration to our staff.  The time away for the day-to-day operations allows staff to embrace new ideas and re-energize their passion for aging services. It’s also an opportunity to share their own expertise and build confidence.”

President/Chief Executive Officer, Deb Reardanz, Clark-Lindsey Village, Urbana, IL