Residents and Staff Members Work Together at Brooksby

At Brooksby Village, an Erickson Senior Living community in Peabody, Mass., 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 Brooksby home.

Recently, the Tribune sat down with Stan Nissen, chair of the RAC, and Executive Director Tracie Bettano to further discuss how this collaboration strengthens the community and supports residents.

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

Stan: Partnership is the key word. We have built up a reservoir of trust that allows us to discuss pretty much anything! This partnership extends to the RAC and its committees.

Tracie: We prioritize transparent, open, and honest communication. My team maintains a strong relationship with Stan and the rest of the RAC, which acts as a voice for residents. They bring forward ideas and suggestions in a positive and collaborative way, which helps us respond and align our priorities. Our partnership is so important.

Tribune: Stan, what role does the RAC play in shaping community life?

Stan: We consistently listen to residents to identify compliments and concerns that the administration might not be aware of. At the same time, the administration uses us as a sounding board when deciding how to approach a project. The RAC provides communication between the administration and residents and vice versa, and that applies to pretty much everything that's going on at Brooksby.

Tribune: How often does the RAC meet to discuss residents' ideas?

Stan: I meet with Tracie, Associate Executive Director Amy Sarro, and the RAC's vice chair monthly to discuss resident feedback. Tracie and Amy also meet with the entire RAC every month to plan the agenda for the monthly resident Town Hall. We will organize additional meetings as needed.

Tracie: In addition to these gatherings, I'll schedule neighborhood meetings. Speaking with neighbors in each of our 10 residence buildings regularly ensures I can connect with everyone who lives at Brooksby. I want to know what's going on in their "neck of the woods," because that can be different than what's going on in another building across campus.

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

Stan: So many positive changes have come out of the RAC's committees. Each committee represents a different department, like Dining Services, Finance, and General Services. In addition, each committee works closely with the department's director, which allows the committee to exert influence. Recently, committees created a one-hour restaurant video tour and Q&A with Dining Services Director Kim Kielbasa, held four "Meet the Finance Team" presentations, and organized a Health Fair.

Tracie: Currently, an extensive project to add new outdoor amenities, including a pickleball court, dog park, and putting green, is underway. A special RAC committee was formed years ago to communicate with residents about the project, which is now nearing completion.

We always keep residents informed and welcome feedback on new amenities and upgrades, such as our beautifully redesigned McIntosh Clubhouse. The two-story clubhouse now boasts flexible classroom space and a fast-casual restaurant called Northfields. Our regular meetings with the RAC and community Town Halls help us keep lines of communication open on such projects. Residents know they can come to us and that we will take their ideas seriously.

Tribune: What is the best part of working together?

Stan: Administrators have insight into what residents are saying and thinking, thanks to the RAC. The RAC's ability to provide input and influence decisions helps ensure that residents' needs are met. Brooksby residents know their voices matter!

Tracie: Our interactions help us create the best possible experience for residents. It's about listening, responding, and sharing the "why" behind our decisions. I cannot say enough about how valuable our relationship is with Stan and the RAC. It's a pleasure working with them, knowing that we are all working toward the same goal--making Brooksby a great place to live.

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By Susan Ingram