ShelterInsights - The Shelter Group
Transcription
ShelterInsights - The Shelter Group
sights In Shelter Issue… One of the central themes evident throughout The Shelter Group's more than 30 year history is the importance of developing and maintaining strong relationships. In previous issues, we have written about the long, deep and highly valuable relationships we have with our lawyers, architects, contractors and others. In this issue, you will read about the central role relationships with our neighbors and our residents play in the work lives of our terrific associates across many different parts of the company. Our first relationships in a town or city where we are looking to develop a new community are with our immediate neighbors. Because we have an active development pipeline in high barrier to entry markets from northern Virginia to Boston, we have to get virtually every site zoned for our intended use. Our neighbors are extremely focused on the impact our proposed communities will have on their lives, their home values, the traffic in the neighborhood and more — just as you would be if a new community was proposed next door to your home. We know their support will be central to our ability to obtain the approvals we need to move forward, and so our approach is to communicate early and often, with great transparency and openness to hearing our neighbors’ concerns, trying to address them as best we can. In this issue, continued on page 2 Marilynn Duker President, The Shelter Group C R E A T I N G Q U A L I T Y C O M M U N I T I E S Rendering of future Brightview community in Warren, NJ Developer Highlights: Triple Header Week Brings Big Wins for Brightview Senior Living SPOTLIGHT In this The week of May 13, 2013 may likely go down in Brightview history. Never before have we received three zoning approvals in a single week! We are now well positioned to move forward on our development efforts for new communities in Warren, New Jersey, Norwalk, Connecticut and Canton, Massachusetts. These successes are the direct result of tremendous efforts led by David Holland, Andrew Teeters and Michael Glynn. In each case, they listened carefully to the needs of the larger community and devised plans to respond accordingly. In addition, they ensured Brightview Senior Living’s ability to develop communities that will support a vibrant lifestyle for future residents. David Holland quickly learned David was a man of his word, and he consistently delivered on his promises. Over time, they came to respect the commitment he had made – not just to the proposed Brightview development but to the neighborhood as well. After almost a dozen public meetings, our proposed development was approved on May 13. With a near capacity crowd at the final hearing, not one of the neighbors spoke in opposition to our project. In fact, many neighbors spoke in favor of our project and in support of David Holland’s efforts in particular. Having support from the neighborhood is a major ”He [David] listened to our concerns and accomplishment. What David was ultimately showed us that the proposed able to achieve in Warren was a monumental accomplishment! Brightview development was superior to Brightview Senior Living secured a beautiful 17-acre parcel directly adjacent to the town center in Warren, New Jersey. For the convenience of our residents and their families, the site affords close proximity to a variety of shopping and professional offices in the suburban northern New Jersey town. Brightview plans to develop a 100 apartment home community that will include assisted living and dementia care. A number of the apartment homes will include full kitchens the other options possible for the site.” “David was a true pleasure to work with,” commented neighbor, Debbie Davis. “He met with us often and kept us fully informed of his efforts.” She continued, “He listened to our concerns and ultimately showed us that the proposed Brightview development was superior to the other options possible for the site. While we were originally skeptical of the Brightview development, we ultimately came to fully support it.” —Debbie Davis, neighbor and will be larger than our standard assisted living apartments to address the desires of a more independent population. We believe the larger apartments will give us a unique niche in the marketplace. Late in 2011, David Holland, Brightview’s Vice President of Development, reached out to our neighbors directly abutting the future community. He spent countless hours in their living rooms talking about the importance of our development for seniors and their families. He attentively listened to their concerns and developed plans responding to their feedback. David was honest and upfront with the neighbors, telling them what was and was not possible. The neighbors Andrew Teeters and Michael Glynn For almost a decade, Brightview Senior Living has been looking for a site in Fairfield County, Connecticut. Few options for senior living exist in the densely populated area near New York City Developer Highlights, continued on page 4 summer 2013 In this Issue… In this issue, from page 1 Our Brightview developers are highly effective in this capacity because they are passionate believers that what we offer our residents and their families is truly an outstanding environment and quality service. They genuinely enjoy the process of getting to know our neighbors and of working together with them to address their concerns, with the end goal of bringing a much needed service to the community. In addition, the key to our success as the owner and operator of our communities is the relationship our associates build with each and every one of our residents and their families. In the spring, I attended an Associate Recognition Dinner at Evergreen Woods and sat with Elaine Bronson, a Housekeeper at the community. She has been cleaning the apartment of one of the residents for 20 years! They have, of course, become good friends and have shared many experiences — happy and sad — over the years. The resident is now 100 years old! It’s these kinds of relationships and those described elsewhere in this edition occurring each day at so many of our communities — both at Brightview and at Shelter Properties — that we believe differentiates us. While we certainly talk about how much we value strong relationships, the most wonderful thing to me is that they simply wouldn’t happen at every level of the organization — in creative and special ways — without the people who choose to come to work for us having this as one of their own personal core beliefs. We can’t teach someone to value each person they come into contact with on the job. That comes from within and is at the very core of who they are as a human being. We feel privileged to have attracted so many very special people to our organization who share this essential value with us. 2 Editor: Sarah H. Schlenker EM P OW ER ME N T Leadership Conference for Shelter Properties In May 2013, leaders from Shelter Properties gathered in Hershey, Pennsylvania for the Shelter Properties Leadership Conference. The theme for the conference was Empowerment. Marilynn Duker, President of The Shelter Group, opened the conference by welcoming all leaders and promising an experience unlike any prior. The conference kicked off with a performance by ‘The Shelter SPICE Girls,’ singing their rendition of “Pay Me Lady” (a rent collection spoof on “Call Me Maybe” by Carly Rae Jepsen). Greg Conderacci, of Good Ground Consulting, LLC, returned to the Leadership Conference for the second year, and defined empowerment as “The power to make the right decision at the right time at the right level.” Using examples from the famous Harvard Business School case, “The Parable of the Sadhu,” in which mountain climbers unexpectedly meet a person in trouble on a mountainside, Greg led managers through a series of exercises to improve their understanding – and their performance – when they must make key decisions. He described these decisions as “Sadhu Moments,” the times when making the right decision can have a big impact on them, their staff, the residents and Shelter overall. And, often, these moments pass almost unnoticed. The managers considered several examples where ‘going the extra mile’ for residents made a lasting favorable impression, improving satisfaction and service. The managers brainstormed several suggestions for improving their ability to respond to resident needs and to improve their own teamwork. They worked on empathy, ‘seeing the world through other’s eyes,’ and behaviors that enhance trust and cooperation. In addition to educational sessions, participants enjoyed an afternoon of SPICE, part of Shelter’s wellness initiatives incorporating 5 dimensions of wellness — Spiritual, Physical, Intellectual, Cultural and Emotional. Each attendee had several options for afternoon activities including golf, paint ball, a trolley tour around Hershey or a spa treatment. The feedback was unanimous: everyone loved their afternoon SPICE activity. As one leader commented, “The SPICE time was awesome. It gave me time to meditate and truly reflect upon and absorb the information from Greg’s sessions.” On the final day of the conference, a photo scavenger hunt united conference attendees in a fun and engaging teambuilding exercise. Ron Culberson, the 2013 President of the National Speakers Association, humorist and author, wrapped up the conference. Ron reminded attendees that we are all heading toward one final goal and the key to success in life, death and almost everything in between is to “Do It Well. Make It Fun.” Ron’s self-depreciating approach made for great laughs with a powerful message. Many attendees left the conference buzzing about Ron, talking about his presentation during the trip home. Di Edwards, Senior Vice President of Operations at Shelter Properties, shared her feedback: “The Leadership Conference was a huge success! I am especially proud of our Service and Property Managers who shared freely during our educational sessions. Together, we can grow stronger and kick it up to the next level!” SHELTER PROPERTIES T VIBRANT PEOPLE VIBRANT COMMUNITIES Leadership Conference 2013 BRIGHTVIEW The annual Brightview Senior Living Leadership Conference brings together leaders from Brightview’s communities to celebrate the achievements of the prior year. In addition, the conference affords leaders opportunities to enhance their professional knowledge and skills. The Brightview Senior Living Leadership Conference braved the elements and the odds of a winter storm, and held its event in Newport, Rhode Island, in March 2013. The Welcome Reception and Awards Gala at the Rosecliff Mansion kicked off the conference. Attendees toured the mansion fashioned after the Grand Tianon, a garden retreat at Versailles. Hosted by Brian Engle, Senior Vice President Operations at Brightview Senior Living, the Awards Gala recognized the star performance of individual associates and coaches as well as the most successful communities. Brightview Greentree was proud to receive the title of Community of the Year. The following day, Executive Vice President, David Greydanus introduced the theme of the conference, Vibrant People, Vibrant Communities, continuing the focus on developing and sustaining Brightview’s unique culture of resident empowerment. A series of professionally-made videos illustrated resident empowerment and what it looks like in each community department. The scenarios, based on real-life examples provided by Brightview associates, demonstrated how residents are empowered. In some cases, the resident and associate actors portrayed their own stories. Building upon the Brightview mission of “creating vibrant communities by providing excellent service,” David further defined the philosophy and culture by stating, “Vibrant communities are joyful places where we empower our residents to live an independent and purposeful life, full of choices and flexibility, and where we focus on possibilities rather than limitations.” In addition, the conference agenda included two guest speakers who reinforced the theme of Vibrant People, Vibrant Communities. Dr. Bill Thomas, international authority on longevity and eldercare and founder of the Eden Alternative and Green House Project, addressed the conference and shared insights on ‘elderhood.’ His comments on empowering older adults were thought-provoking and extremely well-received. Vicki Hess, Catalyst Consulting, joined the conference for the second year, and suggested ways for all community leaders to reduce stress and gain more energy to achieve Brightview’s mission. Community leaders left the Brightview conference with renewed vigor and commitment to fulfill Brightview’s mission and differentiate the company from other senior living providers in the industry by creating vibrant communities of resident empowerment. ASSOCIATE Spotlights Tricia Church Brightview South River Brightview Senior Living’s core values and principles are exemplified by Tricia Church, Senior Resident Assistant at Brightview South River. In addition, she embraces resident empowerment and engages residents as she completes her work each day. With kindness, compassion and a warm smile, Tricia excels in her role as Senior Resident Assistant. Tricia is also delighted to step in where she is needed to assist residents and associates; whether cleaning apartments, serving meals or organizing closets with a resident, Tricia is always willing to help. In a calm, encouraging manner, Tricia succeeds where others may not. As if she has a magic touch when interacting with residents, she works with residents on solutions that are beneficial to all, ensuring residents have what they want and need. She is also the person residents as well as associates turn to during difficult times. Tricia’s warm and loving ways make it easy for residents and associates to be comfortable with her. Tricia’s commitment to residents at Brightview South River, their family members and associates is outstanding. To honor her hard work and dedication, she was awarded Associate of the Year—Caregiver at Brightview Senior Living’s Awards Gala held during the Brightview Conference. Congratulations Tricia! Shirl Younger Brightview Westmister Ridge When it is enthusiasm you need, call on Shirl Younger, Senior Concierge at Brightview Westminster Ridge! The ultimate cheerleader with a tremendous amount of spirit, Shirl embodies Brightview Senior Living’s commitment to vibrant living. Each day, as the concierge at the community, she strives to make the lives of residents, their families, visitors and associates more vibrant. And, each day, she succeeds, bringing warmth, love and compassion to the lives of everyone she greets. In addition, Shirl works with residents to problem solve. She has the residents’ best interests at heart, and delights in bringing smiles to their faces. Shirl also adds distinctive touches to programs at Brightview Westminster Ridge, whether exquisitely dressing up for parties and theme days or finding extra touches for special occasions and events. Because of her dedication to the residents at Brightview Westminster Ridge, their families and associates, Shirl was awarded Associate of the Year—Hospitality at Brightview Senior Living’s Awards Gala held during the Brightview Conference. In addition, because of her outstanding performance, Shirl is participating in the Individual Development Program (IDP) with the goal of a learning the Business Office Manager position. Her work at Brightview Westminster Ridge is exceptional. Congratulations Shirl! Team at Woodbridge Commons For Barbara Ruben, Senior Property Manager at Woodbridge Commons, building relationships is the foundation for success in property management—especially at an affordable, family housing community. “By paying attention to residents and identifying their needs,” she asserts, “you can help them get what they need, empowering them when no one else might.” Such quality relationships then develop into “trusting Associate Spotlights, continued on page 4 Insights spring 2013 Shelter 3 Rendering of future Brightview community in Norwalk, CT Developer Highlights, continued from page 1 because development sites are difficult to find. Brightview was extremely pleased to secure a site on a well-traveled road in Norwalk, Connecticut. The site is currently used as a meeting and dining venue for a local fraternal organization that is no longer interested in maintaining the building. The existing building will be demolished and a new 90 apartment home assisted living and dementia care community will be developed on the site. Andrew Teeters, Vice President of Development, and Michael Glynn, Development Director, worked closely with the town officials and the local neighbors on the project. When our original design for the proposed development created problems for the community and for Brightview, Andrew and Michael made the difficult decision to bring in a new team of designers to rethink the development. In part because of the complete redesign of the building, we successfully garnered support from the town officials as well as the neighbors adjacent to the site. In fact, we were able to gain the support of all of the adjacent neighbors. Andrew and Michael worked hard to get broader community support for the project as well; a number of citizens spoke in favor of the proposed development. As a result, the Town Council unanimously voted in support of our project on May 15. In Massachusetts, as well as several other New England states, town governance raises the bar THE SHELTER GROUP PORTFOLIO (as of 07/15/2013) No. of No. of Properties Units Brightview Senior Living 274,873 Shelter Properties Managed 485,580 In Development Total 272,850 10213,303 Shelter manages properties in 10 states. 4 on democracy. Zoning cases get decided at “town meetings” in which every resident of the town is able to vote on an applicant’s zoning request. At The Shelter Group and Brightview Senior Living, it is our practice to extend ourselves to our future neighbors most affected by any of our developments. In Canton, Massachusetts, we went beyond our immediate neighbors and talked with as many of the town’s residents as possible. In addition, as zoning cases are heard infrequently, it was important to talk to as many people as possible to garner support for the development and ensure approval for the project the first time it was voted on by the residents of Canton. Otherwise, it might be up to year before another vote. In essence, we needed to launch a small political campaign to ‘get the word out’ about the importance of our development. No team was better suited to meet this challenge than Andrew and Michael. Based on Andrew’s experience in many previous zoning cases, he and Michael developed an action plan to reach out to as many key decision makers as possible. Over several months, they made presentations before town fathers, sat at kitchen tables with local neighbors and went door to door telling people about the potential new Brightview Senior Living community. Together, they made an amazing team. As our zoning lawyer noted, “they are evangelists for senior housing.” As our zoning lawyer noted, ”they [Andrew and Michael] are evangelists for senior housing.” While located on a well-traveled road, our proposed site is currently used as a gravel pit, and the neighbors to the rear and sides of the site are mostly single family homes. Andrew and Michael convinced the vast majority of neighbors that our proposed continuum of care (to include independent living as well as assisted and memory care) is a far superior neighbor than a gravel pit. In addition, they were able to win over the town fathers about the importance of the presence of senior living in their community. Subsequently, at a town meeting of all of the residents of Canton on May 15, our proposed Brightview Senior Living community was approved. Next time you see David, Andrew or Michael, extend them congratulations on their terrific accomplishments. Stay tuned for more exciting news! Associate Spotlights, continued from page 3 relationships,” she adds. Barbara and her team at Woodbridge Commons, including Senior Service Manager, Mike Birchfield, Assistant Property Manager, Connie Gutierrez, and Porter, Andy King, embrace the philosophy at Woodbridge Commons and are The team at Woodbridge Commons successful. Treating residents with respect and compassion are important. And, as a result, residents know the office is supportive and is a resource when there is nowhere else to turn. Residents also know that Barbara and her team care about them and have found solutions to several needs. A Food Pantry, Clothes Closet and After School ‘Tell-Me-What-You-Learned-Today’ program have been organized at the community to help residents in need. In turn, residents have helped stock food and clothes assisting their friends and neighbors. The team at Woodbridge Commons is also called when training, mentoring and other supportive roles must be filled. They excel in their assistance in preparation for REAC inspections as well as coaching new Property Managers and Assistant Property Managers. In recognition of their hard work and dedication to the residents at Woodbridge Commons, Barbara Ruben was awarded Property Manager of the Year at Shelter Properties Annual Awards Luncheon. The Shelter Group | 218 North Charles Street, Suite 220 | Baltimore, MD 21201 | Telephone 410-962-0595 | Fax 410-347-0587 | www.thesheltergroup.com Shelter PROPERTIES happenings AWARD WINNERS In March, 2013, Shelter Properties held its annual Awards Luncheon honoring associates who demonstrate a commitment to helping residents live their lives to the fullest. These associates represent the best of our company. Westbrook Commons was awarded Community of the Year for Shelter Properties. STARS Service Shanicka West Property Manager Ashland Commons and Park View at Ashland Terrace Nicole Howard Assistant Property Manager Ashland Commons STARS Teamwork TEAM at Park View at Towson STARS Action Reggie Golder Service Manager Park View at Randallstown and Park View at Woodlawn STARS Reputation TEAM at Woodland Springs STARS Success Susan Harbison Property Manager Park View at Naaman’s Creek Excellence in Service Courtney Squires Service Technician The Vinings at Christiana Excellence in Compliance Peggy Nelson Property Manager Park View at Manchester Heights and Park View at Tyler Run Excellence in Operations Tracey Prince Assistant Property Manager Highland Commons and Residences at Highland Commons Excellence in Wellness Susan Rooke Senior Property Manger Park View at South Pantops Significant Achievement TEAM at Park View at Colonial Landing Service Manager of the Year Keir Nolan Maintenance Supervisor York Commons Property Manager of the Year Barbara Ruben Senior Property Manager Woodbridge Commons Community of the Year Westbrook Commons BRIGHTVIEW Brightview Senior Living held its annual Awards Gala during the Leadership Conference in March, 2013. The event honored associates and communities for their commitment to Brightview’s brand promise—Live Vibrant—and how residents are empowered to live their lives to the fullest. Community of the Year was awarded to Brightview Greentree. Associate Engagement Brightview Westminster Ridge Resident Satisfaction Brightview Avondell President’s Club Barkley Place Brightview Avondell Brightview Catonsville Brightview Commons Brightview Concord River Brightview Greentree Brightview Mays Chapel Ridge Brightview Westminster Ridge Brightview Woodbury Lake Manor at York Town Chairman’s Club Barkley Place Brightview Avondell Brightview Catonsville Brightview Greentree Significant Achievement Brightview Westminster Ridge Significant Sales Achievement Barkley Place Brightview Commons Community of the Year Brightview Greentree STARS Story of the Year Samantha O’Garro Housekeeper Barkley Place Congratulations to all of our award winners for their outstanding dedication to our residents, their teams and the work they do each and every day! Associate of the Year Caregiver Tricia Church Senior Resident Assistant Brightview South River Associate of the Year Hospitality Shirl Younger Senior Concierge Brightview Westminster Ridge Coach of the Year Caregiver JoAnn Driver Health Services Director Brightview Avondell Coach of the Year Hospitality Megan Ervin Business Office Manager Brightview Greentree Coach of the Year Heather Zeiss Executive Director Brightview Catonsville The Tricia Lilly Ourand Award Karen Foltz Community Sales Director Brightview Avondell Insights summer 2013 Shelter ANNUAL PHYSICALS ARE SAVING LIVES Home Office Chris Becker Infrastructure Manager to Information Technology Director All associates and spouses/partners on Shelter/Brightview health insurance are asked to complete an annual physical. Annual physicals promote preventive care and early detection, and are part of our proactive approach to keeping our benefit plan rich and affordable. Christine High Senior Accountant to Assistant Controller Associates are learning first hand just how important it is to receive preventive screenings and to take responsibility for their health. Jeff Elseroad Network Administrator to Infrastructure Manager “I’m only 34 years old and don’t drink so you can imagine my surprise when last year’s physical led to the discovery that I had a fatty liver. This news prompted me to take better care of myself and change my lifestyle. Now, with a healthier diet and regular exercise, I have lost 23 pounds (and counting!), lowered my blood sugar, decreased my diabetes medication and am awaiting results to see if the fatty liver condition has begun to reverse itself. I can address the issues I am aware of but it’s the ones that I’m not aware of that are scary. Having my annual physical gives me and my family peace of mind.” —Chantrese Cheatron, Home Office “Last year’s annual physical saved my life! My prostate cancer was caught early enough that I’m now back at work with a great prognosis.” —Reggie Golder, Park View at Randallstown Associates Boost Physical Activity, One Step at a Time To celebrate Global Employee Health and Fitness Month, nearly 1,000 Shelter and Brightview associates participated in Wellness Warrior 10,000 Steps, a program aimed to boost physical activity. All participants received a pedometer and a tracking calendar, and were challenged with the goal of taking 10,000 steps per day, the equivalent of walking approximately 5 miles. Participants tracked their steps each day during the month of May. An activity-to-steps conversion chart was provided so associates received credit for all physical activity, not just walking. For example, 10 minutes on an elliptical machine equals 2,030 steps! To boost motivation and participation, associates participated in teams and were eligible for gift card prizes based on participation, most steps and most improved. P R O MO TIO N S James Sutton Help Desk Specialist to Network Administrator Julia Marrocco Staff Accountant to Senior Accountant/Financial Analyst Lynnea Pinder HRIS Payroll Assistant to Human Resources Assistant Sarah Schlenker Manager of Resident Services with Shelter Properties to Copywriter with Brightview Senior Living Shelter Properties Courtney Squires The Vinings at Christiana Service Technician to Senior Service Technician Lito Salgado Park View at Dundalk Service Technician to Service Manager Troy Carr Monarch Mills Service Technician to Service Manager Helen Lipscomb Brightview Greentree Dining Server to Senior Dining Server James Taylor Brightview Catonsville Executive Chef to Dining Services Director James Wild Brightview White Marsh Dining Server to Cook Janna Barry Brightview Concord River Resident Assistant to Resident Services Coordinator Kendra Harris Brightview South River Concierge to Senior Concierge Kenneth Marshall Brightview Greentree Dining Server to Cook Keshasha Skinner Brightview Greentree Resident Assistant to Resident Services Coordinator Laura Stinemire Brightview Perry Hall Senior Concierge to Business Office Manager Marie Crouch Evergreen Woods Senior Resident Assistant to Resident Services Coordinator Nicholas Kenney Brightview Mays Chapel Ridge Cook to Dining Room Manager William Ewell Park View at South Pantops Porter to Maintenance Supervisor Ogechi Nzeadighibe Brightview Towson Dining Server to Senior Dining Server Brightview Senior Living Rachel Epple Brightview Mays Chapel Ridge Hostess to Senior Dining Server Addie Sanders Evergreen Woods Senior Dining Server to Senior Concierge Amy Ryals Brightview at Towson Dining Server to Senior Dining Server Ralf Allan Malabanan Brightview Greentree Dining Server to Senior Dining Server Rita Akloyo Brightview Fallsgrove Senior Resident Assistant to Resident Services Coordinator Bea Bakes Brightview South River Resident Assistant in Wellspring to Rochelle Adamson Resident Assistant in Assistant Brightview White Marsh Living Wellness Nurse to Resident Services Director Cheri Hopkins Brightview Catonsville Resident Assistant to Senior Resident Assistant Darlene Lepore Brightview Commons Community Sales Director to Executive Director Samantha Warner Brightview Towson Resident Assistant to Resident Services Coordinator Tammy Plumley Brightview Mays Chapel Ridge Housekeeper to Senior Concierge Insights summer 2013 Shelter