Rosebridge Manor volunteer Gillian Organ praises staff members’ dedication to residents

‘The reason I continue to volunteer is because I am so impressed with the care the residents are getting here’

Gillian Organ began volunteering at Rosebridge Manor earlier this year when her friend was a resident. Her friend passed away this summer, but Gillian says she has continued to volunteer because of the passion staff members have for residents.

“The reason I continue to volunteer is because I am so impressed with the care the residents are getting here,” Gillian tells The OMNIway. “The staff members here are wonderful. I have not met one person who works there that is not (fully committed to residents).”

Gillian, whose volunteering duties include running an arts and crafts program, says what she notices most is how well staff members know residents’ needs, likes and dislikes.

“They know the residents’ backgrounds. They know what they like to eat. They are so caring,” she says. “If a resident is confused in the middle of a music program, for example, a staff member is right there consoling them. I am thoroughly impressed.”

Gillian recalls the day her friend passed away this summer. Her friend had passed away in the night, and when Gillian came to Rosebridge Manor that morning, one of the staff members approached her, gave her a hug and asked if she was OK.

“That brought tears to my eyes,” Gillian says.

Gillian says she enjoys volunteering at the Jasper, Ont. long-term care home and plans to continue working with residents to help enhance their quality of life.

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