Residents and Staff Members Work Together at Charlestown

At Charlestown, an Erickson Senior Living community in Catonsville, Md., residents have a true say in what happens on campus, thanks to the Resident Council.

The Resident Council 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 about the on-site restaurants to requesting more umbrellas for shade near the bocce courts, this open communication ensures that services and amenities reflect the needs of those who call Charlestown home.

Recently, the Tribune sat down with Stephanie Leddy, president of the Resident Council, and Don Grove, executive director at Charlestown, to learn more about how this collaboration strengthens the community and supports residents.

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

Stephanie: All staff members, including community leadership, really care about forming personal relationships with the residents here. One great example is Putterland, our annual indoor miniature golf event. The administration always puts together a team, and the residents have several teams. It's a fun event that helps us get to know each other on a more personal level.

Don: I totally agree! I attend as many community events with residents as I can. My wife and I also regularly dine at our on-site restaurants. Being immersed in day-to-day life shows residents that I really care about their experience. It also helps me see their perspective. If someone talks about their meal at one of our restaurants, I can empathize because I've experienced it firsthand.

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

Stephanie: We're very fortunate to have an administration that actively collaborates with us. Don understands the importance of open communication. He is approachable and has a good sense of humor, which makes us feel comfortable sharing concerns and ideas from residents with him.

When the council has questions, Don and his team do their best to provide answers promptly. If they don't have an immediate answer, they commit to finding the information and getting back to us as quickly as possible.

Don: I'm so glad to hear that, Stephanie. My team views the Resident Council as the pulse of our community. Their role as a bridge between residents and administration is essential to the community's success. They ensure that our goals and priorities align with residents' needs.

Council members meet regularly with directors of departments such as Dining Services, Finance, Resident Life, and General Services to help us refine our operations. The council also helps us share the 'why' behind decisions, further promoting open communication.

Tribune: Don, does the leadership team solicit feedback from residents in other ways?

Don: Yes, there are plenty of other opportunities for residents to share their thoughts. In addition to our monthly communitywide Town Halls, we hold neighborhood-specific chats to address concerns and suggestions. The annual resident satisfaction survey also captures substantial feedback.

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

Don: Absolutely! There was a request for more outdoor amenities, so we are currently working on adding new features to our front lawn in the Historic District to create a more park-like environment.

We are also enhancing the community garden area and adding paved walking paths, which will lead to amenities such as the bocce courts, cornhole, our softball diamond, and two new outdoor pickleball courts. Firepits and seating areas will also be added so residents can sit and chat or simply enjoy the outdoors when the weather is nice.

Tribune: What is the best part of working together?

Don: My team's partnership with the Resident Council helps us determine exactly what residents are looking for. I think that, just like in any relationship, it's imperative to listen. Staying attentive to concerns and working together to resolve them is the key to success. The council helps us do just that.

Stephanie: We know that the administration hears us, and we appreciate that! They always do what they can to address concerns and make things happen.

In a community this large, you can't please everybody, but you can at least give people a voice and make them feel heard and valued. Don and his team do that. Our ongoing, transparent communication ensures residents' voices are heard and their needs are met.

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

By Danielle Rexrode