Residents and Staff Members Collaborate at Oak Crest

At Oak Crest, an Erickson Senior Living community in Parkville, Md., residents have a true say in what happens on campus, thanks to the Resident Advisory Council (RAC).

The RAC works closely with community leaders to not only provide feedback from neighbors but also to collaborate on matters both large and small. From sharing compliments on the General Services team's great work to weighing in on renovation plans, this open communication ensures that services and amenities reflect the needs of those who call Oak Crest home.

To learn more about how this collaboration strengthens the community and supports residents, the Tribune sat down with Madonna Padilla, chair of the RAC, and Executive Director Todd Sullivan.

Tribune: How would you describe the relationship between the RAC and community leaders?

Madonna: We consider ourselves one integrated family! We include staff members and the administration in all of our communitywide events, such as Picnic by the Pond, galas, and holiday celebrations. Oak Crest's leadership team is very interested in the well-being and comfort of residents--that's why working with the RAC is so important.

Sullivan: We maintain a strong, collaborative relationship with the RAC. We seek their wisdom when navigating challenges, implementing changes, or launching initiatives because they understand residents' perspectives. They also do a great job at bringing forward suggestions and helping identify concerns.

Tribune: How often do you meet to discuss residents' ideas?

Madonna: We meet with Todd and the leadership team twice a month to address suggestions or concerns that have been presented to the RAC. Most of the submitted recommendations are coordinated with the directors on the leadership team and are quickly resolved. More significant or costly recommendations are presented to Todd for future budget considerations.

Sullivan: I also connect with Madonna and the RAC cochair twice a month. It's a great way for us to touch base and stay up to date on everything that is happening across campus between RAC meetings.

Tribune: Can residents share feedback in other ways?

Madonna: Yes! Residents have many avenues to offer suggestions and ideas. A few of them are the annual Town Hall meeting, monthly community meetings, and "Talking with Todd" events. The annual resident satisfaction survey captures a lot of great feedback as well.

Sullivan: We aim to remain transparent about projects and initiatives that affect residents throughout the year. For example, when modernizing an elevator, we debated whether to begin during the holidays or delay, so we held a Town Hall to get input from residents. They appreciated the opportunity to weigh in.

Tribune: Can you share some positive changes that came directly from resident input?

Madonna: Happy to. The collaboration between residents and leadership has resulted in many improvements on campus. One example is a beautiful lighted veterans' memorial in our main garden plaza. To accommodate residents' growing interest in health and well-being, a second pickleball court is being installed.

Throughout campus, several automatic door openers have been installed for residents with special needs. The Dining Services team has implemented many menu suggestions from residents, resulting in high approval ratings for campus restaurants.

Sullivan: We've heard that a more expansive, inclusive listening experience is important for residents. When we embark on renovations, we aim to ensure that all new and refreshed spaces are equipped with the latest technology. So, in the coming year, upgrades to Oak Crest's chapel and other frequently used meeting spaces will include technology that supports inclusive listening.

Tribune: What is the best part of working together?

Madonna: The open communication between management and the RAC facilitates a smooth exchange of ideas and responses. Residents know that they have a voice!

Sullivan: We have learned that when we work together with openness and trust, the outcome is always better. When everyone around the table shares the goal of making Oak Crest the best community it can be, we can navigate anything together.

To learn more about the ways you can explore senior living, request more information today.

By Danielle Rexrode