Stories, Structure, and Serving with Heart: “I am here to enhance their life, and what is important to a resident is important to me.”
curiosity now shapes the way she plans activities and gatherings. “I love when residents share their life stories with me,” she says. Through Resident Welcome Gatherings, social events, and “About Me” forms, Melissa gathers insights that help her create programs residents will genuinely enjoy. When she describes her role, she explains it simply: “My job involves planning activities that encourage our residents to enjoy their decision to live in a retirement community.” A typical day may include shopping for supplies, answering emails and phone calls, leading activities, and researching or planning future events. Much of the work happens behind the scenes. “The amount of time spent researching and planning,” she notes, is often unseen. At Park Place, residents value structure and clear communication. Activities are scheduled in advance
so residents know what to expect and can plan accordingly.
relationships. It also means navigating loss and change. “My faith in God enables my ability to let go of my cherished friends, knowing I will see them again and opening my heart in developing new relationships,” Melissa says. That perspective allows her to continue welcoming new residents and strengthening community bonds. Melissa and her husband, Darren, have been married for 35 years. Their twin sons, Devin and Colin, served in the Marine Corps and have since graduated from college. At home, she enjoys time with their dog, Buddy. At Park Place, Melissa’s thoughtful planning and commitment to fellowship help residents feel confident in their choice to call the community home.
“We do not do spontaneous here,” Melissa says with a smile. “Residents want to know when and where ahead of time.” For Melissa, activities are about more than the event itself. They are about fellowship. Craft sessions are a favorite. What began as a simple activity has grown into extended time for conversation, collaboration, and encouragement. “It is about fellowshipping with each other, helping each other, doing what you think you cannot do, and appreciating the different creation of each other,” she says. When residents offer suggestions, Melissa looks for ways to implement them. “I am here to enhance their life, and what is important to a resident is important to me.” Working closely with residents means building meaningful
MELISSA AUGUSTSON Life Enrichment Director, Park Place of St. John
Before stepping into Life Enrichment, Melissa Augustson spent six years at the Front Desk at Park Place. During that time, she learned something invaluable: the stories of the residents. When the opportunity opened for a Life Enrichment Director, Melissa was ready. “After spending six years learning about our residents through interaction and observation, I moved from the Office into Life Enrichment,” she says. Melissa has always enjoyed
hearing about residents’ lives and families. That
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