A management team in a senior care and rehabilitation facility having a combined 260 years serving in the same facility seems unlikely, but for Life Care Center of Valparaiso, that’s exactly what they have.
Boasting an administrative team with years of experience within the same building, and the same for nurses and other employees on the floor, the building enjoys the perks and benefits of a close-knit community. With lower than average turnover rates and a genuine care for their employees, relationships seem to be the theme of this facility.
“I still like coming to work every day,” Amber Janeczko said. “I know a lot of people can’t say that and there are a lot of challenges in this line of work, but I really enjoy it because this is like my family.”
Creating that supportive community is something that Life Care Center of Valparaiso prides themselves on, and is something they feel is a vital part of their facility. Through visiting with coworkers outside of work hours to aiding them with non-work related problems, the management team truly holds an open door policy.
“I had someone just the other day having a difficult time, she came in crying because of a personal issue and we found an alternative solution to the issue,” Janeczko said. “Reaching out and genuinely caring about people I think has made a big difference. It’s about everybody and what their struggles are and what motivates them. That’s important.”
With such supportive team members above, it’s no wonder that many find a long-term career at Life Care Center of Valparaiso. Adding to that benefit, the facility strives to promote from within. With Janeczko beginning as a secretary and Kim Koenig, Admissions Director, beginning as a nurse on the floor, both have climbed the ranks to obtain their position. They believe that for newcomers, seeing that possibility is an important thing for staff.
“My belief is that if you promote from within they can appreciate the opportunity for career advancement in the future,” Koenig said. “I think it sets a good example for others. They want to work here because they want to be the administrator one day and you can do that.”
With a facility that has achieved a 5-star rating and an administrative team who carries a long-standing reputation within the community, it’s no wonder that Life Care Center of Valparaiso is able to retain employees. Keeping them motivated and appreciated not only allows them to keep residents well cared for, but allows the administrative team to continue going above and beyond for them.