Staff, Residents, friends and family recently celebrated two very important events at St. Martin’s Home. We observed Employee Appreciation on June 25 and Residents’ Day on June 27.
Employee Appreciation is held two times a year – in June and December.Celebrating twice a year allows the Little Sisters to honor people who retire, have just been hired or who are being recognized for a notable achievement such as a service milestone anniversary of years of employment with St. Martin’s Home. These milestones are recognized with a certificate and gift.
We had the immense pleasure of honoring retiree Ella McDaniels, a 39 year employee of St. Martin’s Home. A GNA for all those years, Ella shared her early work history – and the change of jobs in quick succession during her first years of working. After starting at St. Martin’s Home, her husband asked her how long she planned to stay. She replied, “About two weeks and see how I feel.”39 years later, Ella was given a watch so she can recall with fondness her time with the Residents, Little Sisters and fellow employees. With emotion, her son, William Carter, spoke of his mother’s time with the Little Sisters.He said he “grew up” with the Residents and Sisters. William also recalled how the family would come together for most holidays and activities held at St. Martins Home.
Several other employees reached milestone recognition.Patricia Wells-Santos has been a GNA for 25 years.Pat, along with Elizabeth Grubb, GNA, received certificates of appreciation for the work they have done helping new hires master Resident lifting devices.Both Pat and Elizabeth were appreciated for being able to explain and demonstrate the complicated devices in a manner that is easy to understand and utilize. Deborah Lanham, dietary aid was recognized for 15 years of service at St. Martin’s Home. She is carrying on a work history with the Little Sisters of the Poor – her mother retired from the Home after 27 years of service!
Two days after Employee Appreciation Day, the Residents were treated to the Social Security Association Chorus and a special luncheon as part of Residents’ Day. The highlight of the day was a performance by professional clown Bobalouie. Clowning for 10 years and a graduate of the Red Skelton Clown School, Bobalouie considers himself 99% funny and 1% artificial coloring. His compensation is not money but the laughs. Everyone enjoyed the total transformation of the “man” to the “clown.” Bobalouie’s performance was extra special because Keith Karas, Human Resources Director, is the man behind the clown! Smiles, laughter and special celebratory snacks rounded out the day.
ST. MARTIN’S HOME CELEBRATIONS