New Pond Village Associates Share Insights on Their Longevity
“Passion, compassion and patience”
A Journey of Dedication: Krissy Gaeta’s Story
When Krissy Gaeta started her job at New Pond Village back in 2008, she was going through a tough time in her personal life. “It made me feel better when I was here. It redirected my energy and made a huge difference,” she recalls. “It’s still like that today.”
As a housekeeper at New Pond Village, Gaeta spends her days ensuring residents’ apartments are clean. But her role is so much more. She has a profound effect on the resident experience, and residents have a profound effect on her.
“I don’t just go in and clean. We talk with each other about what’s happening in our lives. We really get to know each other. They’re so appreciative when someone listens.”
Industry Turnover: Defying the Odds
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median tenure for workers in health services jobs is 4.1 years—even less for support roles. Another report from the Hospital and Health Compensation Service puts turnover at CCRCs at more than 40 percent, with departments like dining services around 50 percent.
Doug Duarte: A Cook with a Passion for People
That makes Doug Duarte another exception to the industry rule. He joined New Pond Village as a cook 15 years ago, covering vacation shifts. Soon, he was a full-time employee. “I don’t think it’s that I enjoy cooking as much as I like to see people happy with what they’re eating. I’m a crowd pleaser working behind the scenes, making sure everything comes out awesome.”
Long-Term Associates: A Testament to New Pond Village
“Some folks have been here over 25 years, including one associate who’s been here since the building opened almost 35 years ago,” says Executive Director Adam Manchester, a long-time employee of New Pond Village’s management company, Benchmark Senior Living. “Many have dedicated their career to New Pond Village. I think that tells you this is a good environment, and we’re getting people who have the heart to do this kind of work.”
The Importance of Consistency in Senior Living
That’s an important distinction when choosing a senior living community. With associates playing a role in nearly every aspect of a resident’s day, staffing consistency allows for deeper bonds and higher satisfaction for both associates and residents.
“This isn’t like an apartment building,” says Manchester. “This is a life that we as associates get to help create with residents. The residents value that so much, and our associates love being able to provide that for them.”
A Culture of Collaboration and Passion
Duarte also enjoys the bonds he shares with his colleagues. A passionate gardener, he’s always bringing something new into the kitchen. “This week, I was able to show my co-workers the newest tomato I’ve grown, which is purple,” he says. “As for my future (I’m now closing in on 70), I have no reason to stop working as long as I’m able. I’ll be here preparing meals—hundreds a day, thousands a year—bringing my hard work ethic and hoping for [my co-workers] to do the same.”
Gaeta appreciates the support of her team, too, which is always willing to help with any task. “It’s a wonderful environment. If you have passion, compassion and patience, you can be successful here.”