Residents and Staff Members Work Together at Ashby Ponds

At Ashby Ponds, an Erickson Senior Living community in Ashburn, Va., 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 Ashby Ponds home.

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Recently, the Tribune sat down with Connie Gutowski, chair of the RAC, and Tom Channon, executive director at Ashby Ponds, to learn more about how this collaboration strengthens the community and supports residents.

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

Connie: Ashby Ponds is truly a [supportive] community. Residents and staff are all part of it as friends and colleagues. The RAC works very well with administration because we are all striving to improve the community. We recognize that there are limitations and differing opinions, but by working side by side with common goals, we all thrive.

Tom: I completely agree! Our work together is collaborative and positive. The RAC and management have a strong, transparent relationship.

Tribune: What role does the RAC play in shaping community life?

Connie: The RAC's strength lies in our ability to connect with both administration and residents. We have the ear of the executive team, and that is appreciated by residents. We aim to provide thoughtful feedback and possible solutions that benefit the entire community. At the same time, we keep residents informed about community plans.

Tom: The RAC acts as a voice for residents. The council provides valuable insights that help us make operational decisions, which shape many aspects of community life. Our leadership team is trained to listen and seek clarity before making any decisions or changes. By working with the RAC, we bring all relevant stakeholders to the table, enabling us to do just that--listen and seek clarity.

Tribune: How do the RAC's committees contribute to community improvements?

Connie: The RAC has very active committees [that represent different departments], including Dining Services, Finance, General Services, Resident Life, Philanthropy, and more. The committees address questions or concerns when something affects residents, so often, they are already aware of discussion topics before they reach the council.

Tom: The RAC's committees provide valuable insight into resident preferences and areas of opportunity in how we deliver services. The committees ensure that we are not simply changing things as management believes they should be, but instead, making changes that will have the greatest positive impact on the resident experience.

Tribune: How is feedback gathered from residents? Once input is shared with leadership, what happens next?

Connie: The RAC seeks input from residents through monthly open meetings, where the council and each committee report on current topics. Council and committee members also share their contact information to encourage feedback, and every message receives a response. In addition, we are out and about in the community, interacting with residents and gathering ideas. Then, we bring all new input to Tom and the administration.

Tom: Management meets with the RAC twice a month. We also meet with Connie separately twice a month. In these sessions, we hear feedback, praise, and suggestions, all of which help identify solutions that are equitable and determine next steps.

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

Connie: Residents previously shared concerns about the automatic door in Farmwell Hall. RAC members observed the door and then spoke with residents to better understand the issue. After explaining the concern to administration [members], Tom and his team worked with a vendor to adjust the door switches, creating a solution that better accommodates residents.

Tom: The RAC had also shared concerns over the acoustics in one of our performance and meeting venues on campus. With their assistance, we tested the venue's sound with several vendors before making changes to the sound system that removed acoustic distortion, improving the overall experience.

Tribune: Connie, what do you appreciate most about your involvement with the RAC?

Connie: Many seniors feel a desire to give back and contribute. The RAC allows me to help contribute to strengthening the community and finding solutions that will benefit everyone!

To learn more about independent senior living, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and much more.

By Kelly Shue