Our DSP for this week is Alice. She works at our Inndale home and has been with Living Well over two years. Everyone at Inndale loves her, including Sam who lives at the house and nominated her. He thinks she is the best, and once you meet her, you will agree. Alice has a tender heart and was born to be a caregiver.
Mary Larson, Program Manager, says, “Alice naturally excels in training, leading, and motivating others!
Her upbeat encouraging attitude promotes harmony and teamwork! Alice has built positive trusted relationships with those she cares for. Ms. Alice is a valued asset to the Inndale family!”
Sam says, “Alice is the best caregiver in the whole wide world. She brings a smile to my face every time I see her. We can all count on her to help with whatever we need. She puts her heart into everything she does. There is nobody more deserving of a shoutout than Alice, she goes the extra mile.”
The other housemates at Inndale agree. Don, says, “Alice is a continuous JOY and brings a smile to everyone!” Michael, says, “Alice is WONDERFUL! She puts her heart and soul into everything she does. Alice is very patient!” John tells us, “Alice is always upbeat, smiling and makes me laugh! She is a great cook. She is a GREAT person!” And Hailie says, “Alice helps me A LOT! She makes me laugh!”
Alice, thank you for your kind heart and for caring so deeply. We appreciate all you do!
ABOUT ALICE
Number of years/months with Living Well: 2 years 3 months
Hobbies/Interests: Singing, dancing and cooking. I cook Kenyan food—the folks here love my African food on special occasions. I also enjoy reading the Bible.
Education: Back home I studied catering and to be a chef in college. Then I started caregiving, and worked in a hospital for many years.
Job Experience/History: I moved here 17 years ago and started doing home care when I first came to the US. I worked in assisted living for 12 years, at many places, sometimes having three jobs at once.
Favorite part of the job: Everything is good, I just love everybody, I like helping them, cooking for them. I just love the place and the walk over here.
Favorite or craziest work story: I love every day! When I come in, I say hi to everyone. I love them and they love me back. I am always happy. Coworker Sheila Warness reports that they are all happy to see Alice, too!
What is your motivation for coming to work: This is something that comes from my heart. I love people and being around people. When I am home, I feel like I am missing something, I cannot wait to go back. I feel happy when I am here. We are one big family.
What made you apply: My cousin came to America and for 20 years had been working in group homes, and he said the assisted living work is too much and too hard on the body. I no longer take pain meds, it is less stressful on my body with the lifts and support. This is a great change, less stressful and easier on my body. I was recommended to apply by two coworkers who recommended the house, and I have been here ever since.
What makes you stay: For one, the managers are very nice to me, I love them. Mary and Shelia are very wonderful. I could never quit. I don’t care about the money. I care about the love.
What would you tell people interested in joining the team: I have referred many people to Living Well. I tell them it is good place to work. In other positions I knew people who did not have it in their hearts. So I tell people if this causes you stress you might want to think about something else. If you are made for this kind of care, you will be happy as a lark. You must love this job from you heart, otherwise you cannot do it.
When not at work what do you like to do for fun: Sleeping and cooking and dancing! My sister and I put on songs and sing Christian music, we also take long walks in the summer. I call my kids in Africa, and we chat every day, often while we are dancing!
Want to nominate a DSP? Please email jessica.maurer@livingwell.org to nominate a Living Well DSP. Special thanks to Miles and Cheri Cohen for their support of DSP of Week. Want to join them in underwriting our DSP Shoutout Program? Please contact Jamee Yung for sponsorship opportunities.