Residents and Staff Members Collaborate at Windsor Run

At Windsor Run, an Erickson Senior Living community in Matthews, N.C., residents have a true say in what happens on campus, thanks to 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 restaurant menus, this open communication ensures that services and amenities reflect the needs and preferences of those who call Windsor Run home.

To learn more about how this collaboration strengthens the community and supports residents, the Tribune sat down with Reed Hilderbrand, RAC chair, and Executive Director Michael Wehrle.

Tribune: Reed, what inspired you to get involved with the RAC?

Reed: Throughout my career and volunteer work, service to others has always been important to me. After moving to Windsor Run, neighbors encouraged me to become involved with the RAC. This role allows me to meet and serve fellow residents in a meaningful way.

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

Reed: The RAC allows residents' questions, concerns, and ideas to be presented directly to different areas of management. Monthly meetings with the leadership team provide opportunities for sharing information and receiving responses.

Wehrle: The RAC serves as a communication conduit between residents and staff. They see and hear things we may not and partner with us to help find solutions. They support residents seeking enhancements or better experiences by lending a listening ear.

Tribune: How do RAC committees help contribute to community improvements?

Reed: RAC liaisons and committees work closely with management, presenting resident input and discussing ideas directly with each department. These regular meetings support thoughtful consideration of improvements and help ensure residents' perspectives are included.

Wehrle: RAC committees guide decisions from a resident perspective, which is especially helpful when departments are making changes to community operations. When changes may require a broader understanding within the community, they can explain and provide context for us.

Tribune: How is resident feedback gathered and shared with leadership?

Reed: Residents can submit handwritten inquiries in drop boxes near [on-campus restaurants] or through the My Erickson app, which sends messages directly to the RAC. Inquiries are logged and shared with the appropriate RAC liaison, who presents them to management. Residents are also encouraged to speak directly with RAC members. Responses are then communicated back to residents or the broader community.

Wehrle: Windsor Run's leadership team is very open to ideas and comments. We host Coffee with Administration sessions and monthly Town Halls to provide updates and gather feedback. At the end of each month, we respond to every question or comment in our newsletter, In the Loop, which residents appreciate.

Tribune: Michael, how do you ensure that resident feedback leads to meaningful decisions?

Wehrle: My team works closely with the RAC and its committees to evaluate suggestions. Meaningful decisions are made through a combination of resident feedback, RAC input, and a clear understanding of community needs.

I often spend time in the community connecting with residents, whether in restaurants during mealtimes or simply walking through campus. I hear feedback in real time, indicating what improvements would be most beneficial to residents.

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

Reed: One significant example is the on-campus nature trail. Residents and management have worked together to care for, enhance, and expand this space, making it a valued part of the community.

Wehrle: Previously, a resident recommended we start a tech club to help residents with their technology issues. The program now meets every Saturday and is very popular!

Tribune: How does your collaboration enhance residents' lives?

Reed: By working directly with management, the RAC can request changes that enhance daily life. This collaboration supports the exploration and implementation of improvements and has led to many welcomed enhancements at Windsor Run.

Wehrle: Because of our partnership, we can make decisions that directly impact residents' lives in a positive way. Even better, it has strengthened the sense of community here.

To learn more about the ways you can explore senior living, request more information today.

By Kelly K. Shue