Sophie Krausz is RHRA’s 2023 Resident Champion Award Recipient
Sophie joined Baycrest Terraces 11 years ago, and since then Sophie has made a tremendous impact on those around her. Giving her all each and every day, Sophie demonstrates both conviction and passion in her efforts to ensure fellow residents are receiving the highest quality services and programming. Sophie is an advocate for her fellow residents, taking on leadership roles within the retirement home. When there is an opportunity for resident engagement, Sophie is there. Every week, Sophie spends her time preparing for and facilitating a Yiddish discussion group, a language which holds great sentimental value for many residents. Along with this, Sophie helps organize holiday music programs and sing-alongs. In between helping to plan for events, Sophie donates her time to reviewing and editing materials for resident programs and committees and has taken on the role of in-house photographer for Terraces events. When new residents arrive at the home, Sophie can be found ready to greet them with a warm welcome and provides new residents with an overview of the services and programs offered. Sophie has been described as incredibly generous, altruistic, a selfless person, and is a true Resident Champion.
Alan Fletcher
Alan Fletcher is from Scarborough Retirement Residence. A former firefighter for the City of Toronto, Alan Fletcher – or Al as those who know him call him – now sits as a resident advocate at Scarborough Retirement Residence. Al is described as a strong, compelling, and fair voice for the community, and was the driving force behind the creation of the Gold Star of Merit Program. The Gold Star of Merit is presented to a staff member who is voted for by residents in recognition for having made a significant difference in their daily life. Along with creating the Gold Star of Merit Program, Al also creates colourful bird houses that he donates to Scarborough Retirement Residence’s fundraisers. With efforts to spread some joy throughout his home, Al started a monthly Hug Day. The Hug Day occurs on the first of every month where all managers and staff offer residents a hug – a gesture that lifts spirits and puts smiles on everyone’s faces. That’s Al – a resident who is making a difference in both big and small ways.
Frances Durdle
Frances “Fran” Durdle of Kingsway Arms at Elgin Lodge in Port Elgin is described as kind and as having the biggest heart when it comes to welcoming new residents at Kingsway Arms at Elgin Lodge. Fran has taken it upon herself to develop a committee with her fellow residents to offer a “Welcome Wagon” experience for every new resident. Along with her team, Fran sets aside her time to introduce new residents to the home, treating them to a tour and chat over coffee or tea. During the tour, Fran makes sure to introduce newcomers to other residents, and informs them of the various activities available at the home. She offers great advice and care to those who are struggling with the transition from home to retirement. Fran is always willing to help where she can.
Murray and Pat Wood
Murray Wood and his wife Pat Wood have been residents at Tapestry at Village Gate West since January 2022. Within a short time, Murray and Pat have built quite the reputation within their home. As residents, they are actively engaged in community life through building and nurturing strong social connections to enhance quality of life and inspire everyone with their contagious, positive personalities. Murray and Pat are members of the “Welcome Committee” in their home, eager and ready to welcome new residents, help them settle in and share information about their community. In effort to create a special Tapestry feeling, Murray and Pat donate their time to invite new residents to join them for a meal or host them in their suite to help them feel at ease. Murray and Pat are not only active “Welcome Committee” members but also participate in the Resident’s Monthly Meeting, Food Council Meeting, and Wellness Council Meeting. Murray and Pat’s contributions extend outside of the home as well, as they often provide rides to church and offer companionship to others whether it be extending their friendship on the shuttle bus or partnering on excursions. Murray and Pat’s approach to active aging reaffirms and reinforces that life is to be fully lived at every age.
Winnie Colero
Winnie Colero of Rubidge Retirement Residence Peterborough joined the home three years ago. Winnie Colero has made it her mission to help new residents ease into retirement home living. As someone who didn’t picture living in a retirement home for herself, Winnie has adapted, molded, promoted, and embraced her new life. Knowing that the transition to a retirement home can be challenging, when a new resident arrives, Winnie is there ready to greet them and then spends her time showing them around and showing them the ropes of the home. Winnie is always there for her fellow residents, whether it be as an ear to listen, provide shopping advice or just in need of a friendly smile, Winnie is there to help. Winnie has been described as a breath of fresh air and she continues to help break down the walls and fears of transitioning to a retirement home.