Creedan Valley celebrates diversity
Wind and rain did little to dampen the enthusiasm of staff and residents of Creedan Valley Community as they gathered in the courtyard on June 19 to celebrate Heritage Day.
Executive director Punnapa Hartley (above) says the event was originally conceived in 2023 as a way to recognize and appreciate the diverse backgrounds of team members while treating residents to something different. Virus outbreaks forced cancellation of Heritage Day in 2024, but this year it returned, with team members representing 15 countries including France, Germany, Ghana, Guyana, India, the Netherlands, Nigeria, Pakistan, Poland, Scotland, Thailand, Ukraine and Canada.
Hartley arrived at Creedan Valley in mid-2022 and noticed a gap between staff, and between team members and residents.
“In the first few months I noticed lots of conflicts and complaints. My approach is that we are all professionals with the goal of providing top-quality care, and I knew that if colleagues got to know one another and appreciate the beauty of their different backgrounds, they could work better together.”
Hartley says the approach was very effective.
“I no longer receive complaints. The care is improving and residents are smiling.”
Team member Shazia Aslam, a registered practical nurse with roots in Pakistan, prepared traditional chicken biryani. She has been working part- time at Creedan Valley for the past year.
“Creemore is a very nice small community with very friendly people.” Aslam was pleased to be able to share some Pakistani cuisine with residents and show off her native dress. Resident Dianne Steenhuis says she loves living at Creedan Valley.
“I don’t have to grocery shop or cook, and the staff are great.” She thought Heritage Day was a great way to see team members in a different light.
In March 2024, Creedan Valley Heritage Day was recognized with a Trailblazer of Culture Change Award by Walk With Me for exemplary contributions to changing the culture of aging across Canada.
Sienna Senior Living, the company that operates the facility, has a mission of cultivating happiness in daily life. There are 70 residents and 86 staff, including full-time, part-time and leadership.
Hartley says she will definitely plan another Heritage Day celebration for next year. Based on feedback from residents, she’ll try for better weather and more time to enjoy the food and music.
Plans are also in the works for an August event at Creedan Valley to honour first responders.
