In this month’s Culture of Joy, we’re proud to celebrate Cheyenne, whose creativity, heart, and infectious spirit have made a lasting impression on both residents and teammates at The Waterford at Ironbridge.
Cheyenne’s journey began in Dining Services, but her natural connection with residents quickly led her to her current role as Activity Director. She often says it feels like she “won the job lottery.”
With a deep commitment to knowing each resident personally, Cheyenne crafts engaging, inclusive, and meaningful experiences that meet people where they are, while gently encouraging them to try new things.
Cheyenne doesn’t just plan activities. She builds community, encourages independence, and brings out the best in those around her. From forming a resident-led party planning committee to keeping track of exercise class attendance for accountability, she leads with purpose and joy.
Thank you, Cheyenne, for filling each day with connection, fun, and heart. You truly embody what it means to create a Culture of Joy.
Q&A with Cheyenne
Q: Could you introduce yourself and tell us about your role at The Waterford at Ironbridge?
A: I’m Cheyenne and I’ve worked at The Waterford at Ironbridge for six years. I started in Dining Services and transitioned to Activity Director.
Q: How did your experience in Dining Services help shape your approach to planning activities for residents?
A: Yeah, I think knowing them on an individual level helped. Getting to know each resident is key.
Q: You lead such creative and engaging activities. Where do you find your inspiration?
A: I started working with seniors when I was 14 years old. Working with seniors is all I’ve ever done. Knowing what each resident is capable of and pushing their limits a little bit to where they’re comfortable accepting the challenge has been useful. I always try to think of activities that I would enjoy. For some of my out-of-the-box ideas, I gather interest before I proceed with planning.
Q: What’s your process for gauging resident interest in new ideas?
A: I typically will use the lunch hour to go to each table and check in with everyone. I have a serving background as a waitress, so it’s very natural for me to go to every table and make sure their cups are full, so to speak.
Q: I love that!
A: Yeah! But when it comes to upcoming events, I’ll say, hey I’m planning an event and gauge interest, see who is on the fence and who is excited.
Q: You seem to have a special energy that draws people in. What do you think motivates residents to participate?
A: I think my special gift is getting participation and I think that comes from knowing that I will do anything that I can to help them. I will go out of my way to help in their day-to-day lives, so whenever I invite them to an event, I think that gives them a chance to give back to me. They’re showing up for me, but ultimately they end up showing up for themselves.
Q: That’s beautiful! Do residents ever help with ideas for activities?
A: Yes! Something I recently started is a party planning committee. Some of the residents have backgrounds in event planning, one lady was an Activity Director herself. There are also residents who came with mountains of supplies. I can ask, does anyone have a lace tablecloth? So they’re involved in that way too.
Q: I love the involvement the residents have.
A: My ultimate goal is for the residents to be running the community and I help facilitate.
Q: Are there daily activities you host too?
A: Oh, yes. I have some heavily attended activities like morning exercise class. I take attendance and it helps give them accountability to show up for themselves. One of our residents helps lead the class too. He used to be a physical trainer!
Q: How would you say your role as Activity Director stands apart from other positions within the community?
A: I am very grateful and thankful for my role. I really feel like I’ve won the job lottery because my job is to have fun. Ultimately, I just want to be their friend. Of course I work for them, but I want them to know that aside from the fun we have, they can come to me and talk. I’ve recently started a support group because while most of what I do is all fun, there are some real issues to address too.
Q: That’s great and I’m sure it helps residents feel less alone and build connections, too.
A: Exactly. They take turns hosting and so that way even whenever it’s not all bubbles and sunshine, they can help each other and get back to that place together.
Q: What advice would you give to other Activity Directors?
A: Get to know each of your residents on a very personal basis. Implement their feedback and you must be a multi-tasker master. Keep your hand in many pots and your head in many hats. Try new things and keep the things that work, and always do it with joy in your heart. There will be hits and there will be misses. But take those misses as a learning experience.
Q: You touched on the value of resident feedback. Why is that so important in what you do?
A: Feeling heard is absolutely important. If they’re excited about something, they’re going to show up. Their input is most valuable and I always try to bring an idea to life. As soon as someone gives me an idea, I write it down and give them a date so they can look forward to it.
Q: How would you describe your team at The Waterford at Ironbridge?
A: Every single one of my teammates is willing to do anything at any time. My team is the strong unit that we are because of our exceptional leader. With her example, each team is willing to do whatever it takes for our community to thrive.
Q: From what I see on Facebook, your team seems really involved and cares about each resident.
A: We’re a family. It’s the residents home, but it’s our home too.
Q: Outside of your amazing work in the community, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?
A: Well, I’m a big Dead Head. I just got back from Las Vegas seeing the Grateful Dead at The Sphere, which was really great. I try to go to one or two concerts a month. I’ve got three kids, one getting ready to graduate college and the youngest is 7. I love to go camping and crystal digging. I’m a busy girl!
Q: Sounds like you plan activities for home, too!
A: Oh, yes. All the time.
Q: It’s been such a joy speaking with you, Cheyenne. Your work is inspiring and your energy clearly lights up the community. Thank you for sharing your story!
A: Absolutely! I really enjoy my job. Thank you so much for the recognition!
Cheyenne’s story is a vibrant example of the joy and purpose that come from building meaningful relationships within a senior living community. Motivated by her lifelong passion for working with seniors, Cheyenne brings heart and creativity to every moment. The community she has helped cultivate at The Waterford at Ironbridge is a testament to the power of listening, caring, and showing up with authenticity. Cheyenne’s work reminds us all of the lasting impact one person can make when they lead with joy and purpose.
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