Residents and Staff Members Work Together at Cedar Crest

At Cedar Crest, an Erickson Senior Living community in Pompton Plains, N.J., residents have a true say in what happens on campus, thanks to the efforts of 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 Cedar Crest home.

To learn more about how this collaboration strengthens the community and supports residents, the Tribune sat down with Jim Goodness, president of the RAC, and Ryan Fitzpatrick, Cedar Crest's executive director.

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

Jim: My wife and I have lived here just over five years. I can't say enough good things about the leadership team! They are extremely open to ideas and suggestions. It's very easy to connect with Ryan and Associate Executive Director Ana Montagni. Ryan and Ana like to walk around campus so they're not only accessible to the council, but they're also accessible to any resident. I have enjoyed working with and getting to know them.

Ryan: Being immersed in day-to-day life shows residents that I really care about their experience. It also helps me see their perspective when they make a suggestion.

We prioritize transparent, open, and honest communication. The leadership team maintains a strong relationship with Jim and the rest of the council, which acts as a voice for residents. They bring forward ideas in such a positive, collaborative way, which helps us respond and align our priorities.

Tribune: Jim, what role does the RAC play in shaping community life?

Jim: When I walk through campus, residents feel comfortable stopping and talking with me to let me know how they're feeling about things. It's great to get feedback. We bring residents and the administration together. Our goal is to make sure that Cedar Crest is, and continues to be, a great place to live.

Tribune: How often do the RAC and community leaders connect?

Jim: The RAC has a monthly meeting with Ryan and Ana. It's an opportunity to casually bring up concerns and receive updates on ongoing initiatives. Ryan and Ana also bring things to us to ask our opinion, seek input, and gauge our thoughts on future projects.

Ryan: Ana and I also meet monthly with Jim and Linda Percussi, vice president of the RAC. This second touch point helps us stay up to date on things happening around campus. We're open to discussing anything and everything, which further builds trust.

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

Jim: Happy to. During the Belmont Clubhouse renovation, Belmont Beans, a coffee and snack bar with a small convenience store, was temporarily moved upstairs and began Saturday hours. Residents loved being able to grab a coffee and a quick breakfast on Saturday mornings. When Belmont Beans moved back downstairs to its new beautifully redesigned location, the schedule reverted to Monday through Friday.

We heard from a number of residents that they wanted it to stay open on Saturdays. So, the RAC discussed it, and I made a formal request to Ryan. He agreed it made sense. Residents were talking, and we heard them.

Ryan: The Belmont Clubhouse renovation was a large-scale project. In addition to the redesign of Belmont Beans, it included updates to the lobby, billiards and games room, library, and on-site restaurants. Throughout the project, we maintained open communication with residents and listened closely to their feedback and ideas. Now, it's a space that everyone enjoys.

Tribune: What is the best part of working together?

Jim: Ryan and Ana make every effort to meet with us and our neighbors. That presence and openness are important because it shows residents that they are heard. They really appreciate that.

Ryan: The benefits of our collaborative relationship are innumerable. It's what makes Cedar Crest really come together as a community. It's a pleasure working with the RAC, knowing that we are all working toward the same goal--making Cedar Crest a great place to live and work.

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By Susan Ingram