TV show inspires creativity in LTC staff

Inspiration for activities—even staff enrichment—can be found almost anywhere. The Apprentice television show sparked the idea for a staff competition to benefit residents at The Village of Gleannloch Farms in Spring, Tex.

You know the concept. At The Village, three teams comprised of department heads (Concept Crew, Best Team and Four Girls and a Guy) were challenged to host an unusual resident event. The Concept Crew threw a Cinco de Mayo bash, Best Team orchestrated a fun-filled carnival and Four Girls and a Guy showed residents a good time at the Mad Hatter’s unbirthday party.

Executive Director Kathy Johanns remarked, “I enjoy being part of a team and I look forward to helping with these fun-filled events.”

Each event is judged by Director of Sales Ken Halbert (as Donald Trump) on its effectiveness in providing residents with a creative activity, encouraging teamwork and leadership. Of course, no team will be "fired," but Halbert has and will take notes at every event. In addition to producing the event, each team keeps a scrapbook of its preparations: announcements, flyers and photographs. After Halbert meets with each team in the “boardroom” at the end of July, he will announce the winner.

Halbert explains that the competition is in good fun. “I am impressed with the way our staff is thinking outside the box. It’s fun to watch their ideas come to life and it is rewarding to see the residents’ reactions,” he adds.

Sandra Hoban

Sandra Hoban was on I Advance Senior Care / Long-Term Living’s editorial staff for 17 years. She is one of the country’s longest-serving senior care journalists. Before joining Long-Term Living, she was a member of the promotions department at Advanstar Communications. In addition to her editorial experience, Sandi has served past roles in print and broadcast advertising as a traffic and talent coordinator.