Human connection plays a leading role for many in their working life. These people are everywhere: They are doctors and nurses, grocery store clerks, or work in offices and bars. They are also employees of Avenue Living Communities.
For Lindsey Pringle, Yorkton, Sask. Residential Portfolio Manager, a real, genuine, and friendly connection with her residents is something that is included in her repertoire, and it's her caring nature that was recently life saving for one resident.
"Her words weren't making sense, and she seemed confused," says Pringle, of an ALC resident who needed urgent care.
Pringle has known this resident for some time and noticed her mental health had started to deteriorate during their conversations. She was not sure if it was simply from reduced contact due to isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic, or something of greater concern.
"We have residents who don't have family around for them," says Pringle. "As a friend, as a landlord, and as a companion, we need to check in and let people know they are important. You need to be there as support."
Offering a Duty of Care
How Pringle uses the word 'need' shows the care she displays towards residents of all backgrounds, without judgement. She truly sees it as her 'Duty of Care' to be there for residents.
"I did go out of my way to see how she was doing," says Pringle. "We got her the help she needed, and she is going to be okay. She knew that we were there for her, if she needed any guidance, help or support. And at that moment, that really mattered."
Pringle has a strong sense of empathy, which is something she uses daily when she communicates with those in her care as a property manager.
"I want residents to treat me how I treat them, so I do my best for them," says Pringle.
Upon talking to a nurse at the hospital, she was asked if she knew of the resident's family. She did everything she could to see what she could find.
"At first, we had nothing," says Pringle. "From talking to others in town, I found the resident had been married, but her husband had passed away 12 years ago."
Pringle found the funeral announcement, along with family information. She searched online to find more. Eventually, she found the resident's mother, and her sisters.
It ended up that Pringle helped reconnect a family that had been separated for 21 years.
"We were there to help her get through that obstacle," says Pringle. "To be there for her when she didn't have anybody else. And now she does."
ALC's internal 'In It Together' culture is regularly on display. From giving opportunity stories in Camrose, Alta. to the start of a community garden pilot project in Yorkton, Sask., it's evident that despite the distance between teams, they all drive forward that caring, entrepreneurial spirit. There is always someone to help, and there is always something more to give. It's done without question.
"I feel that whether we are residents or staff, we are all in it together. Our end goal is to make everybody happy, safe, and to feel important," says Pringle.
"We need to be there to support everyone."