At Sienna, we believe that #SocialWorkOpensDoors isn't just a theme for this year; it's a guiding principle that shapes our approach to every resident we serve. This theme embodies the impactful work of social workers in our communities who work tirelessly to create new opportunities and cultivate happiness in the lives of those they support.
This March, let’s celebrate the many ways that social workers open doors to health, mental health and wellness. Here are the stories of a few of those special team members at Sienna.
Sarah Christmas, Resident and Family Experience Coordinator, St. George Community
I love being a social worker because it allows me to fulfill my lifelong passion of serving others and making each individual feel valued, heard, and empowered to grow. My motivation stems from seeing the struggles my adopted brother faced with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and the challenges of accessing adequate services. Aligning with Sienna's purpose of cultivating happiness in daily life, I find joy in creating meaningful connections with residents and ensuring they feel seen and valued every day. It is also important to understand that happiness means something different for each individual, and part of my job is figuring out what that is. One truly impactful experience at Sienna was escorting a resident to an important appointment, where our connection outside the residence fostered trust and a sense of being truly understood. Knowing that I make a difference not just for residents but also for their families keeps me motivated during challenging times, and celebrating small victories reminds me of the value in my work as a social worker.
Chloe Fuentes, Resident and Family Experience Coordinator, Woods Park Community & Retirement Living
Becoming a social worker was a natural choice for me, rooted in childhood experiences and a deep-seated passion for empathy, equality, and advocacy. Growing up with a mother who was a PSW, I spent significant time in the long-term care home she worked at, fostering a profound appreciation for working with aging populations. Social work aligns perfectly with my values and purpose, offering a platform to create meaningful change in people's lives. One experience that stands out is my collaboration with a resident in our Convalescent Care Program, where I helped him overcome obstacles so he could achieve his goal of returning to his home country. Incorporating Sienna's purpose of cultivating happiness, I ensure daily interactions are infused with empathy, compassion, and personalized care. This includes gestures like sending summaries of new residents to our team, and fostering a welcoming environment that brings joy to both residents and their families. Staying motivated in challenging times is about maintaining perspective, practicing self-care, and staying true to the client-centered approach that defines social work.
Sara Smith, Resident and Family Experience Coordinator, The Cascades Community and Retirement Living
From a young age, I was aware of my passion for working with people and listening to their stories, making becoming a social worker an easy choice for me. My personal values of empathy, advocacy, and spreading positivity help me in my role as a Social Worker. Sienna's purpose of cultivating happiness in daily life resonates deeply with me, as I believe that everyone deserves to feel valued and supported on their journey. One memorable experience was when I worked tirelessly to fulfill a resident's wish of going on one last cruise, despite their severe physical limitations. Though they couldn't take the trip in the end, the anticipation and preparation brought them joy and contributed to their overall well-being. In my daily interactions, I prioritize spreading happiness through simple gestures like compliments, chats, and games, knowing that these small moments can have a significant impact. Despite the challenges, it's the heartwarming moments and collaborative efforts with families and colleagues that keep me motivated and inspired in my role as a social worker at Sienna.Social workers in the senior living sector are deeply appreciated for their steadfast commitment and compassionate care, significantly enhancing the daily lives of seniors. Their dedication supports residents and uplifts the entire community, making a profound difference in countless lives.
