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There are many definitions of spirituality, but this one is a favorite among the chaplains at United Church Homes who promote mental health and well-being for both residents and staff.

Spiritual health is an important part of abundant living. It’s a state of well-being where individuals experience a sense of purpose and meaning. It’s a feeling of connection to something greater than oneself. It’s inner peace, resilience and emotional balance. And it’s an alignment of one’s values, beliefs and action. Spiritual health encompasses a broad sense of existential fulfillment and harmony.

Dean of Chaplains Rev. Becky King

Spiritual care runs deep in UCH’s culture, with a team of 11 chaplains serving a diverse group of residents and staff in owned and managed communities.

“Chaplains are deeply embedded in all of the life plan communities,” Dean of Chaplains Rev. Becky King said.  “We visit with every new resident to conduct a spiritual assessment to identify those who may not have a strong support system or are dealing with a difficult life event. We make rounds throughout the buildings, connecting with residents and checking in with nurses and other staff to see who may be in special need of support.”

“It’s all about building relationships of trust,” she continued. “We truly come with a sense of welcome and hospitality and are an important part of interdisciplinary teams. Each chaplain has his or her own style, but there is continuity around mission, vision and core values.”

The role of a chaplain provides spiritual support to people of all religions and are perhaps best known for working in hospital and military settings. They do not promote a particular religion but rather offer connection and support to all.

Chaplain group bible study

“We’re active listeners,” Rev. King said. “We ask a lot of open-ended questions … What gives you meaning and purpose? What brings you joy? I once had a new resident tell me she wasn’t religious, but she loved to read. So, we agreed to talk about books! For those who commune with nature, let’s move our visit outdoors. As chaplains, we adapt to those we serve.”

Another critically important role UCH chaplains play focuses on mental health. Chaplains are often called to talk with residents with mental health problems. The United Church of Christ, with which UCH has close faith-inspired ties, adapted its WISE (Welcoming, Inclusive, Supportive and Engaged) mental health program for use in UCH communities.

The foundation of UCH’s mission is community, wholeness and peace – all of which have a connection to spirituality. While all UCH staff embrace the three pillars, chaplains play a particularly important role in providing spiritual care to those they serve.

Chaplains:

• Rev. Mary Catherine Cole, ACPE Certified Educator — The Trinity Communities of Greater Dayton
• William DeOliveira — Wexner Heritage Village
• Rev. Tracy Glaser-Bacon –The Chapel Hill Community
• Rev. Becky King, Dean of Chaplains – The Trinity Communities of Greater Dayton
• Rabbi Deb Lefton — Wexner Heritage Village
• Rev. Andrea Mericle – The Parkvue Community
• Rev. Darla Metz — Chaplain of Community Engagement
• Bill Oehler — SEM Haven
• Rev. Deanna Straw – The Four Winds Community
• Rev. Jessica Tinkham — Trinity Communities of Greater Dayton
• Rev. Patricia Vargas – The Harmar Place and Glenwood Communities

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Ken Young makes first address to the Board and Senior Leaders

It’s been full speed ahead since Young’s role was expanded to include chief executive officer of UCH and a position within Radiant Alliance – a dynamic consortium of reputable nonprofit health and human services providers – on February 7.

UCH Board members recognized that choosing a new president and CEO would be one of the most important decisions they would make. Continuity in commitment to UCH’s mission, vision and core values was the board’s top consideration.

“In all the ways that matter – in continuity and the values he represents – Ken is the right leader for the future,” said UCH Board Chair Karl Ulrich. “Although we knew and respected Ken from working with him over the years, we didn’t automatically assume he was the best choice. We had a responsibility to dive into the nuts and bolts – to understand his thinking and approach to leadership.”

Young “made his case” that he was ready and eager for the challenges of the president/CEO role, but only after much thought and self-reflection. Out-going CEO Rev. Ken Daniel, who has been a mentor to Young throughout his 14-year tenure, helped Young realize that he was called to do this work.

“We are profoundly grateful for Rev. Daniel’s visionary leadership and the legacy he leaves,” said Ulrich. “We are equally confident in Ken Young’s ability to lead UCH into an exciting future while advancing our mission and values.”

“I’m honored to serve,” Young said. “After a year in the role of president, I have a deeper understanding of the day-to-day responsibilities and challenges. I’m fortunate to have a solid team I can trust and to be surrounded by people at all levels of the organization who share my commitment to UCH’s mission and core values.”

Ken Young 20 years ago

Young grew up playing team sports and played basketball in college, so he has a team mindset and gravitates to leadership roles. He has been an important member of UCH’s senior leadership team since leaving his law firm, where as a partner he worked almost exclusively for UCH, to become inhouse general legal counsel almost 20 years ago.

“It’s been a journey,” Young said. “Reflection, prayer, discussions with people I trust who know me well, peers … I know this is what’s right for UCH and for me. It’s really exciting – UCH’s future is unbelievably bright.”

“February 7 was an emotional day for Ken and for me,” Rev. Daniel said. “I gave a lot of thought to how best to memorialize it for Ken, ultimately choosing three unique, personal gifts.”

They included a cup and bowl made from clay found in the Sandusky, Ohio area, where Young grew up. Northwest Ohio was once home to the Wyandotte Native American Indian Tribe which was known for its hospitality – one of UCH’s core values.

Perhaps the most touching part of the day was presentation of the third gift: a stole Rev. Daniel placed around Young’s shoulders as a symbol of spiritual leadership, service and the calling to ministry.  When given from one leader to another, it represents the continuation of leadership – the transfer of responsibility, and the blessing of God’s calling on the new leader.

It was particularly meaningful to Young who, as a graduate of the Nollau Leadership Institute Program, holds a certificate of consecration as a Diakonal Minister of the United Church of Christ.

Will United Church Homes continue to face change beyond its top leader?

“Yes, it’s the nature of the work we do,” Young said. “But UCH has repeatedly proven, even during a global pandemic, that people throughout our organization are up to the changes and challenges of the future. UCH will continue to be a leader in faith-based senior living and care.”

An exciting new chapter begins!

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The collaboration was a natural fit, as Kelly de la Rocha shared: “The mission of both OMA and poemRENOVATION are so closely aligned, we really make perfect partners. Both organizations promote a rule-free approach to self-expression, using different artistic mediums—OMA’s is abstract artmaking, poemRENOVATION’s is words.” The idea took root when Kelly and Amy connected over Zoom, bonding over their shared vision. Their plans solidified in February 2025 at the Ohio Health Care Association’s Conference in Columbus, where they decided to launch the collaboration during Kelly’s April visit as part of United Church Homes’ Entrepreneur in Residence Program. Rev. Patricia Vargas, a beloved chaplain and facilitator at both communities, eagerly stepped in to make it happen. “I recognized the natural synergy between poetry and visual art,” Rev. Patricia explained, noting how she had already begun integrating the two in her own projects.

The workshops, held at Harmar Place and Glenwood, were a vibrant blend of creativity and community. Eight residents at The Glenwood Community and six at The Harmar Place Community participated, guided by the mantra of poemRENOVATION: “No rules, just create!” The sessions began with a heartfelt rendition of “You Are My Sunshine,” setting a warm, uplifting tone. Residents then used colorful poemRENOVATION word blocks to craft poems or phrases, drawing inspiration from a verse of the song “The Best Things in Life Are Free.” Following this, they created abstract art inspired by their words, later gluing their poetic creations onto their artwork. The result? Stunning pieces that captured their emotions and stories, like 100-year-old Marietta’s sunflower painting at The Harmar Place Community, paired with her poem:

You are the sunbeams
To flowers in spring.
Robins are mine.
They shine, gleam.
The best, the stars for free there
Things that are life
The moon and me
They belong to everyone
Everyone sing

Marietta, who passed away shortly after the workshop, found immense joy in the process. “It comes to a good STOP for me, you know, I love it,” she said, her hands trembling as she signed her artwork with pride. Her smile, as she held up her creation and requested a song, was a testament to the emotional uplift the program provided. Kelly reflected, “I loved that people went away with work they were proud of, and how that work inspired meaningful conversations.”

The impact went far beyond the canvas. At The Glenwood Community, 15 local high school art students joined the residents, fostering intergenerational connections that Amy Elliot, OMA’s director, champions. Amy shared, “I was amazed by the depth of intergenerational connection inspired by both the poem and the OMA art-making activities. It was a true joy to witness the type of conversations and connections that the words combined with the visual artmaking seemed to generate for the students and residents.” She noted the reciprocity in these interactions, with both groups giving and receiving appreciation, creating shared experiences that bridged generational gaps. “Amy’s dedication to fostering intergenerational friendship through creative art experiences is incredible,” Rev. Patricia added. The students’ kindness and enthusiasm brought laughter and warmth, enhancing the sense of community.

At The Harmar Place Community, the magic continued. Amy observed, “It was wonderful to learn how excited the residents were to engage in both activities! After experiencing poemRENOVATION with Kelly that week, residents were ready to go with the words and clearly had experience with OMA activities through Rev. Patricia.” Rev. Patricia’s warmth and facilitation skills set a fantastic tone, as her deep connection with the residents shined through. “Their love for her was apparent,” Amy noted. Residents moved quickly into a “flow state,” where the combination of words and abstract artmaking tapped into their unique creative expression. “It was as if both activities in combination unlocked something special,” Amy said. “The result was magical—a true community at its absolute best.” For Amy, the poems paired with the art offered a window into the beautiful individuals she spent the day with, leaving her feeling honored to be part of the process.

The collaboration’s success was due in part to the seamless teamwork of Kelly, Amy and Rev. Patricia. Kelly brought her journalistic skills, encouraging residents to share the stories behind their creations, while Amy’s passion for intergenerational connection and her role as OMA’s director ensured everyone felt supported. Rev. Patricia, deeply loved by the residents, handled logistics with care, from preparing materials to arranging student volunteers. Rev. Patricia shared. “It was a team effort, and we enjoyed the process.”

The emotional and social benefits were profound. Residents left the workshops smiling, their confidence boosted by their creations. “Some people came in agitated or unsure, but left smiling,” Kelly observed. For those with dementia, the program stimulated memory connections, as Rev. Patricia noted: “It reopens pathways once thought lost.” The shared experience created a sense of belonging, with conversations lingering long after the sessions. “They talk about this afterward,” Rev. Patricia said. “It goes farther than the moment.”

This collaboration reflects United Church Homes’ vision of abundant living, where older adults are encouraged to find purpose and joy in every stage of life. By blending poetry and abstract art, poemRENOVATION and OMA opened new doors for expression, connection, and healing, proving that creativity knows no age. As we celebrate this partnership, we’re reminded of the power of community and the beauty of empowering every resident to shine—like sunbeams, robins, and stars—for free, for everyone.

—

Opening Minds Through Art is a person-directed program of the Scripps Gerontology Center at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. This is a donor funded program at United Church Homes that includes training for certified OMA facilitators who lead the program in our communities. To support our memory care programming, visit our website at unitedchurchhomes.org.

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On February 7, Rev. Daniel assumed his new role as senior strategic advisor to the organization he has so faithfully served for 14 years.

When he joined UCH in 2010, the economy was just beginning to recover from the Great Recession of 2008 and 2009. It was a time of uncertainty and vulnerability. But Rev. Daniel embraced the challenges UCH faced and immediately recognized that he and others throughout the organization shared a common spirit of compassion.

“What I found when I joined United Church Homes and visited my first community was a palpable sense of caring,” Rev. Daniel said. “I remember thinking ‘It’s here! Now how do we deepen it?’”

The UCH Board wanted change. In Rev. Daniel, they found a servant leader committed to the organization’s growth and innovation. They found a leader who would position UCH to meet the challenges of an ever-changing landscape.

“Throughout my career, I’ve worked with a lot of CEOs,” said UCH Board Chair Karl Ulrich.  “Rev. Daniel is one of the best examples of servant leadership I’ve ever experienced. He never forgets that this organization is, at its core, about people. It’s about achieving results for those we are honored to serve.”

Rev. Daniel and ken Young facilitating the ball drop at the annual golf outing in celebration of The Trinity Community at Beavercreek’s 50th anniversary.

Among Rev. Daniel’s early priorities was ensuring that UCH’s mission, vision and core values were on target, clearly stated and embraced throughout the entire organization.  Simply put, he embedded mission into UCH’s culture.

He also set about branding all the UCH communities as one integrated organization – a dramatic change from the past when each community had its own logo and identity, with little connection to the others.

“Today, we all truly believe and understand that we are servant leaders,” said Vice President of Healthcare Operations Laura Farrell.  “That wasn’t the case before Rev. Daniel.  He is a true leader in every sense of the word and has helped me develop in every aspect of my work.”

Ken Young, who now serves as UCH president and chief executive officer, is also grateful to Rev. Daniel for his mentorship.

Rev. Daniel handing over UCH to new President and CEO Ken Young.

“He contributed so much to my growth,” Young said. “He is a dynamic leader – professionally, personally and spiritually. He is an extraordinary role model for doing things the right way, with compassion and always striving for quality.”

There’s a lot to celebrate about Rev. Daniel’s contributions to UCH’s growth and success.  He cites the organization’s remarkable response to the COVID pandemic as an example of its employees’ resilience and commitment to those they serve.

“We were warriors throughout the pandemic,” he said.  “During the early months – a chaotic period as we learned more about the virus and as the guidance constantly changed – we all came together. Our top priorities were protecting staff and residents through our efforts to limit the spread and ensuring that residents did not suffer from feelings of isolation and loneliness.”

“Initially, we held daily calls with more than 50 key staff to share challenges and successes and support one another,” he continued. “Eventually, we moved to weekly calls – Thankful Thursdays – to continue learning from one another and celebrate the synergy that allowed UCH to thrive despite the many challenges we faced.”

Reflecting on his service, Rev. Daniel cites creation of the Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) Program as a highlight. The multi-faith clinical internship for developing professional skills in spiritual caregiving is accredited by the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE). Celebrating its ten-year anniversary in 2025, the program has evolved and grown as a result of a shift to online learning and virtual meetings implemented by necessity during the pandemic.

Another unexpected outcome of the CPE Program is residents’ response to engaging with students.  It has become part of abundant life at the Trinity Community at Beavercreek which hosts the program.

Another highlight for Rev. Daniel was receipt of a transformational contribution totaling $20 million beginning in the early months of the pandemic. The major donor, who preferred to be anonymous, allowed UCH to increase the Campaign for Abundant Life goal to $45 million – the most ever raised by a UCH fundraising campaign.

“Not every president or CEO embraces a role in philanthropy,” said Vice President of Advancement Gloria Hurwitz. “Donors only support organizations with leaders they trust.  Our fundraising success – and our ability to grow our portfolio of communities and services – is a wonderful reflection of donors’ trust and confidence in Rev. Daniel.”

During his tenure, UCH raised an impressive $93 million dollars, increasing the number of seniors it serves and positioning it for continued success.

Under his leadership, UCH’s owned and managed assets have grown to nearly $400 million, allowing the organization to provide support, through housing and services, to greater numbers of older adults.

Ulrich and Rev. Daniel are both justifiably proud of the trusting relationship between senior leaders and members of the UCH board which has contributed so much to the organization’s success.

“Open communication is critically important,” Ulrich said. “You cannot underestimate the importance of transparency. The strong relationship between the board and UCH’s senior leaders under Rev. Daniel’s leadership has played a key role in positioning the organization for continued growth and innovation.”

“He was the right guy to have at the top of the organizational chart through the challenges UCH faced during the pandemic,” he continued. “The strategic plan jointly developed by the board and senior leadership is a key part of Rev. Daniel’s legacy.”

So, what’s next for Rev. Daniel? When he steps down from his role as senior strategic advisor and fully retires July 1, he and Barbara – his wife of 39 years – will enjoy the many things they love to do together. Their travel plans over the next year include visiting Ireland, Scotland, Japan and Australia.

He looks forward to spending more time with the people he loves most: his family. His plans for an abundant life also include remaining active, with regular exercise in the form of yoga and pickleball.

“I’ll always have close ties to United Church Homes,” Rev. Daniel said. “UCH is positioned for continued success and I will enjoy cheering it on from the sidelines.”

This story appeared in the 2025 spring issue of Spirit magazine: Spring 2025 – United Church Homes

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America’s existing healthcare and support for individuals with complex chronic clinical, emotional and social needs often leaves them underserved and at risk, as they try to navigate and access services on their own. The consequences are profound: a lower quality of life and shorter life expectancy for those individuals, limited effectiveness in delivering services and an increased financial burden on the healthcare system.

That’s why three dynamic, nonprofit organizations – United Church Homes (UCH), Metta Healthcare and Genacross Lutheran Services – have joined together as founding members of Radiant Alliance.    

Created last year, Radiant Alliance is a dynamic consortium of reputable nonprofit health and human services organizations with decades of experience and expertise in the supportive care and housing sectors. The alliance promises to be so much more than the sum of its parts – creating a synergy that will have a profound impact on the healthcare landscape.

What makes the relationship between the three founding partners so great is close alignment of their individual missions, core values and cultures. They share an unwavering commitment to innovation, compassionate care and the power of human connection.

For more than a century, UCH has provided quality housing and services to older adults. It currently serves nearly 7,000 residents in its more than 90 owned and managed communities in 15 states and two tribal nations – from independent and assisted living, to life plan communities providing nursing, rehab and memory care. It also provides valuable support services to older adults who prefer to remain in their homes through its Naviguide program. Closely affiliated with the United Church of Christ, UCH is a provider of healthcare and senior living services with a mission to transform aging by building a culture of community, wholeness and peace.

Metta Healthcare’s mission is about transforming the experience of health care by creating and providing innovative, world-class solutions that support patients and families through superior care and services. It is the parent company of Ohio’s Hospice and Pure Healthcare, annually serving more than 18,000 patients throughout Ohio by providing long-term direct health care for those with chronic illnesses or in need of end-of-life care.

Genacross Lutheran Services has been serving people in need since 1860. Today, nearly 3,000 people of all ages throughout northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan benefit from Genacross programs and services that foster compassionate care and wellness. It provides a spectrum of care – not only to older adults, but also to high-risk youth. Genacross is a faith-based social ministry affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and recognized by The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod.

“United Church Homes and Ohio’s Hospice formed a successful partnership in 2018,” said Rev. Dr. Ken Daniel, UCH Chief Executive Officer. “I knew and respected Ohio’s Hospice CEO Kent Anderson and was receptive to his vision to bring nonprofits together to address the needs of a growing body of people on Medicaid.”

Pure Healthcare’s partnerships with managed care insurance companies served as the model in creating Radiant Alliance – expanding the concept to bring more nonprofit organizations to the Medicaid space and providing a seamless web of support services.

“The unprecedented COVID pandemic disrupted the normal cadence of providing health care,” Anderson said. “Against that backdrop, we now face hyperinflation. Standalone providers are finding it much harder to remain sustainable with rising costs and reimbursements that have failed to keep pace with inflation.”

Although cost savings is a tangible benefit to forming partnerships among providers, that was not the driving force behind the creation of Radiant Alliance. The number one goal is to develop and implement models of care for individuals with complex health care needs that will produce better results.

“Over time, we’ll develop shared services,” said Genacross President/CEO, Rick Marshall. “But our top priority is developing models of care that lead to better outcomes. We believe that Radiant Alliance will be a national prototype for how government-funded health and human services can be effectively and efficiently utilized to improve quality of care and life for those we serve.”

Each of the partner organizations will maintain their own identity and governing structure. Upon regulatory approval, Radiant Alliance will become an affiliate of CareSource – a nonprofit, nationally recognized managed care organization established in 1989 that now serves more than 2.1 million members. The partnership is evolving from an idea to early implementation with Rev. Daniel serving as its CEO, Anderson as president and Marshall as treasurer. The broader goal is to recruit additional nonprofit organizations to join the alliance, working together to deliver quality of life and care.

“Growth is a priority for nonprofit organizations because it allows us to expand reach,” Rev. Daniel said. “UCH, Metta Healthcare and Genacross are all about providing quality care and support to a greater number of people, particularly those who are underserved. We want to help people live their lives to the fullest. This partnership makes each participating organization stronger and represents an opportunity for each to better serve more people in need.”

For more info on Radiant Alliance, visit them on the web. 

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Michelle Faulkner

Although she is the creative mind behind most of the community’s events, she is quick to point out that the secrets to her department’s success are the contributions of her team, Chef Ashley Warren, and staff working throughout the life plan community. She credits them all with the success of the many dynamic activities that always serve to bring smiles to the faces of both residents and staff.

“I love to play off of holidays and themes,” Faulkner said. “Not just the obvious ones, but those you can discover through just a little bit of research.  We’ve celebrated Disney’s anniversary, re-enacted a scene from the I Love Lucy show, hosted Willy Wonka- and Candyland-themed events, built activities around Broadway, and even recognized Mailman Appreciation Day.  There are so many great ways to bring residents and staff together, and it’s so much fun for both.”

“One of my favorites is when Michelle and Ron (Wilson) re-enacted the hilarious scene from the I Love Lucy show in which Lucy and Ethel are working at a chocolate factory, trying desperately to avoid being fired by eating the candies and stuffing them into their clothes when they are unable to keep pace wrapping them,” UCH Director of Customer Experience Amy Kotterman said.  “I’m sure I’m not the only one who will never forget it.  Their performance brought joy and laughter to everyone in attendance.”

Kotterman and Faulkner agree that some of the tried-and-true activities – like Bingo and key holiday celebrations — will always have place in UCH communities. However, they also agree that it’s fun to shake things up a bit with the unexpected. Faulkner coordinates some holiday and other events on an annual basis but says she “likes to one-up herself” with more unexpected celebrations. The response from residents and staff alike has been positive, and both look forward to what Faulkner and her team will come up with next.

“I’m so grateful to Chef Ashley and every member of the Trinity Beavercreek team for contributing to the success of our activities,” Faulkner said.  “We go all out with it and aren’t afraid to be silly. We try to offer something for everyone!”

Faulkner has plenty of experience coordinating activities in senior communities, and previously worked for United Church Homes from 2008 to 2015.  She says that she had always dreamed of working in a facility like Trinity Beavercreek and was thrilled when she was asked to return in 2021 as group activities started again after being so limited through much of the COVID pandemic.

“We all contribute in unique ways,” Faulkner said.  “In addition to events coordinated by the activities team, staff from individual units within the community sometimes create their own special events and celebrations.  Everyone puts their God-given talents into their work, and residents clearly enjoy seeing that.”

Faulkner and her team like to find ways to engage both staff and residents. A Broadway Day event featured staff performances and showcased the work of a resident who over the years made many costumes for theater productions.  Events featuring displays and food on tables throughout the room serve to encourage conversation and sharing of life experiences.

“Chef Ashley’s creativity adds a lot to our events.” Faulkner said. “When I bring an idea to her, she creates a collage of what she envisions. Then we get together and develop a plan and invite staff to join in the implementation.”

Resident and staff smiles are the best metric of success of the activities, events and celebrations throughout UCH communities. Like others who were forced to physically isolate during the worst of the COVID pandemic, UCH residents are happy and excited to return to a more engaged lifestyle.

The sharing of best practices at UCH isn’t limited to clinical services. Kotterman is reconvening the activities staff now that COVID is more under control. Some events can easily be replicated in other communities, while others may serve to inspire a different spin. The newly created position of joyologist – primarily focused on staff morale – will also likely spark ideas for joyful resident activities.

“I’m so proud of our teams,” Kotterman said.  “Their love and commitment to our residents is so touching.  They lift people’s spirits and contribute to abundant life, and they understand that quality of life is as important as quality of care.”

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Scott Slutz, who was recently promoted to senior executive vice president of human resources and chief culture officer, brings a different and very important perspective as an experienced human resources professional.

“The lifeblood of a service-business like ours is its people,” Slutz said. “Just as each resident has their own unique needs and priorities, so do our employees. Our organization’s commitment to advancing diversity, equity and justice extends beyond residents to staff, as does our vision of abundant life.”

“The work we do is challenging,” he continues. “It takes a special kind of person to work in this environment. For many, caring for others is a calling. At the end of each day, they want to feel like they made a difference in the lives of others.”

Just as UCH meets residents where they are, it’s equally true with respect to its workforce.  Employees from different backgrounds and generations serving in unique roles, want and need different kinds of support. The organization offers both tangible and intangible support to create an abundant work environment.

“Our Amplify professional development program holds a special place in my heart,” Slutz said.  “Employees with different levels of responsibility – frontline, mid-level and executive — have different needs and regardless of their needs and wants, we provide education, training and other opportunities to improve their skills and enhance their work experiences.”

Among the intangible contributors to UCH’s abundant work culture is the new position of “joyologist” which is responsible for onboarding new employees and contributing to employee satisfaction in other unique ways. The Trinity Community at Beavercreek and The Parkvue Community each have a joyologist and plans are in place to add the position at two additional communities.

“We want to minimize the stress,” Slutz said. “And we want to provide a level of support that will build rapport with new team members. It’s not just the right thing to do, but it pays for itself in employee satisfaction and higher retention rates, reducing costs associated with advertising, pre-hire assessments, orientation and training.”

Another component of abundant culture for staff are community chaplains who are there to support employees, as well as residents.

“We’re all in this for the same reasons: we want to help and serve others,” Slutz said.  “It comes down to our core values, which are fundamental to who we are as an organization. We strive to provide our employees with a positive work environment that contributes to their abundant living and encourages them to stay.”

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