In this month’s Culture of Joy, we are thrilled to shine a spotlight on Emma, whose compassionate heart and unwavering dedication have made a profound impact on the residents and team at Summit Place.
Emma’s journey into dining services was driven by her passion for helping others—combining her love for food with her desire to make a difference in residents’ lives. Her ability to create delicious meals, learn each resident’s unique preferences, and foster meaningful connections is a true gift.
“Emma shines when she is working with the residents, and it shows that she enjoys making the residents happy during their meals,” says Larinda Cooley, Regional Director of Operations. “Emma, without a doubt, enjoys her job and goes over and beyond for the residents daily.”
Thank you, Emma, for all you do to bring joy and comfort to those around you!
Q&A with Emma
Q: Could you introduce yourself and tell us about your role at Summit Place?
A: I’m Emma and I’m the Dining Services Chef at Summit Place. I’ve been with the community for two years and two months.
Q: How did you come to be on the dining team at North Pointe?
A: Through a friend of mine. She had suggested the position with the community. Once I started, I absolutely loved it. I’ve worked in restaurants before, but never anything really like this. I’ve had people experience and food experience and have always had it in my heart that I wanted to help people.
Q: How is working in a senior living community different?
A: It is my favorite job because I get to help people. I get to feed people and help people.
Q: Can you tell me what your day-to-day looks like?
A: I start the day with breakfast. I help take orders, fill coffee and say good morning. We then start to prepare for lunch and supper. I clean up and make sure everything is sanitary for them. This is their home, and I would want the same for my home. I’d want to be able to sit and have a nice meal and relax. Doing that for them is a good feeling.
Q: It sounds like you really pay attention to their wants and needs.
A: Absolutely. My coworkers and I have figured what they like and what they don’t like. For example, what they want to drink in their coffee as far as, like, creamers or sugars. Or things like if they like fish or spicy food. You really get to know them and become a part of their family.
Q: What has it been like working with the Summit Place residents?
A: The residents here are very social and welcome newcomers with open arms. They took me under their wings and told me that I was part of the family now.
Q: That’s wonderful!
A: Yes, they’re a special group. They told me their nicknames early on too. One resident is known as “Mama,” one I call “Auntie” and there is also a “Paw Paw.”
Q: What a special group! Speaking of groups, what is it like working with the Summit Place team?
A: I love everybody. We’re a great team. Even if something happens outside of the community, everyone has your back and is willing to help. We’re all equal, it doesn’t matter what station or what job title you have. We all work together.
Q: Do you work with other colleagues outside of the Dining team?
A: Oh, yes. I’ve been cross training to help with some caregiving and activities. I get more time with the residents and getting to know not only what they like in the dining room, but also like their things outside of dining. If they like, bingo, being outside or even self-care preferences.
Q: Speaking of dining, what meal do you think has the biggest turnout?
A: Probably breakfast. Everyone starting their day with coffee. I’ve learned not to mess with their coffee!
Q: Since you’re in South Carolina, what southern dishes are a resident favorite?
A: We do a fried chicken with okra and greens that they love. They love all types of foods. This week they really loved the taco salad. For Mardi Gras, we did a King’s cake for dessert that they really liked.
Q: What do you enjoy most about working with seniors?
A: The biggest thing is gaining all the residents as your grandparents; not just working for them but becoming their family. Making them happy, feel loved, and making them feel seen and heard. It’s important to me that they’re happy.
Q: What are some of your favorite on-the-job memories?
A: Oh, there are so many! One time, we had an Elvis impersonator perform and a resident tried to go leave with him. We had another resident who said the most outrageous things that would always make us laugh. There’s another resident who comes up to me every day to give me a hug and tell me how appreciated I am. She tells me, “The world needs more people like you” and it just warms my heart.
Q: Tell me about yourself. What’s life like for Emma outside of the community?
A: I like being outside in nature, going hunting and fishing. I like to play video games. I love to spend time with my 3 cats and dog, who are like my children.
Q: It looks like your area of South Carolina is beautiful.
A: I’m in the mountains every weekend with my friends or family.
Q: Next time I’m in the area, I’m definitely stopping by to meet you, the community and have some delicious food!
A: Well, we’d welcome you with open arms!
Emma’s story is a shining example of the joy and purpose found in working at Summit Place. Her dedication to serving residents and creating meaningful experiences is evident in everything she does, from preparing delicious meals to learning each resident’s unique preferences and fostering connections that bring comfort and happiness. Inspired by her love for helping others, Emma’s passion for making a difference shines through in her thoughtful approach to dining services. The bonds she has built within the Summit Place community highlight the profound impact of her work.
Become a Social Butterfly and Shimmer Through Your Senior Years
It’s never too late to transform into a social butterfly. Senior living communities are designed to promote health and happiness while allowing you to build new friendships in your later years.
Find a community
If you’re a senior or caregiver looking for independent living, assisted living or memory care services for you or your loved one, contact us to schedule a tour or request information about a community near you.
