Our DSP this week is Jen. She works at our Central home in Cambridge, and has been with Living Well for seven years. She has been a caregiver for over 20 years and applied to Living Well after meeting the crew from Central when she was working at the day program they attended. She enjoyed them all so much, she joined the team!
Holiday Party FUN!
The crew at Central really enjoy each other and work well as a team. Earlier this month they had an all-staff holiday party at a restaurant in town, and everyone from the house was there and had an absolute blast. Everyone at the house is like family, and they work together to make sure everyone is well cared for and having fun.
At Dollywood with the crew from Central.
Jen has a tender heart, and always finds ways to keep everyone happy and entertained. Deb Krienitz, Program Manager, says, “Jen is one of the most dedicated staff at Central. She is always willing to grab extra shifts and take people on vacations, one on one outings and in big groups. Central is so very lucky to have her!”
Jen with her family.
Jen, we are so grateful for your kind heart and generous spirit at the house. Thank you for making a career out of caring, we appreciate you!
ABOUT JEN
Number of years/months with Living Well: 7 years
Hobbies/Interests: I like playing bingo on Sundays in Isanti. And I really enjoy camping with my family. You can find me in Palisade Minnesota once or twice a month in the summer.
Education: Some college at Cerro Coso Community College in Ridgecrest CA, where I attended while my husband was stationed there for the Navy. I also have CNA from Pine Technical College.
Job Experience/History: I have worked as a DSP, CNA, and as a supervisor in group homes and nursing homes since 2000. And I cut hair from 1999-2021 but retired after 20 years as it is hard on the hands and back.
Favorite part of the job: Making a difference in people’s lives by helping them live their best life. I do cares, cooking, cleaning—we do it all together as a team.
Favorite or craziest work story: Getting stuck in the elevator during an overnight and had to call another staff to come get me out. They live close and are the backup for this kind of thing, and it is great to know they are there and close in town.
What is your motivation for coming to work: The people we serve. The guys are just awesome, I learn new stuff every day. My coworkers love these guys as much as I do, and we have a great team here!
What made you apply: I was working at their day program and applied to the house when there was an opening.
What makes you stay: It’s a great place to work and the people we serve are awesome individuals. It’s fun and rewarding work, and I really enjoy my coworkers and the people here.
When not at work what do you like to do for fun: Play bingo, camp, spend time with my husband and our grown kids. We play cards and games, go camping together a lot, have weekend BBQs.
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.