Helen Redekopp - Support Staff

“I just wouldn’t even think of working somewhere else.” Said Helen Redekopp, a member of Salem Home’s Dietary staff.  After eight years of working here, she is still professing her love for the elderly, taking time for the little things and even playing a few jokes on her coworkers.

“Its not just a serious place, I have a lot of fun here.  I am usually the one who initiates the fun.  I love having fun. It’s just relaxed. You get to know people in other departments by greeting them and a word of encouragement.” Helen said.

Along with this, there is also plenty of opportunity for Helen to build relationships with the residents.  During snack time, Helen visits every resident at Salem Home. “I probably know all 145 residents by name,” she said. “I work in all of the departments.  You get to know what they like and don’t like. It’s kind of what makes it a personable home.” 

Approaching her work with cheer and compassion, Helen believes it’s the little things that make Salem Home a comfortable place to live and work. 

“When they [residents] first come it’s a new environment and they don’t know anybody. That’s when we have the opportunity to make them feel at home - to give them a pat, or a cup of water. There are always places where you can take a moment and it doesn’t take long,” she said. “I don’t think it really matters what department you work in, at least from what I see I think everyone really works together and does their best to work as a team.”

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