Aides advance at Waveny

Sunday, 13 December 2009 12:20

Six specially selected certified nursing aides (CNAs) at Waveny Care Center recently completed an eight-week training program designed to provide job enrichment, hone leadership skills and facilitate active participation in the growth and development of Waveny. Having completed the 16-hour course, each participant achieved the designation of “Career Path CNA,” which, in addition to day-to-day activities, requires additional responsibilities including mentorship for staff as a role model, participation on various organization committees, orientation for new prospects and hires, and involvement within the care planning process.

The program featured a diverse curriculum of classes taught by experts in the fields explored. Topics included specialized Alzheimer’s care, Reiki and massage, effecting culture change, leadership and mentorship, state survey preparation, nonprofit operations and creating a positive work environment. Featured guest instructors included registered nurse Kelly Papa, director of education, research and dementia care consulting of the Alzheimer’s Resource Center of Plantsville, and Hilda Delucia, president and founder of Inspired Learning of Bethel.

“To me, the opportunity meant recognition for all the hard work we do,” said Marie Yolette Milord, who has served Waveny as a CNA and rehab aide for more than 10 years. “Not only does it mean we do a good job in our roles, but it means that we are an important part of what makes Waveny what it is today, and what it will be in the future.”

Selection for inclusion in the program was based on an application and interview process, and was open to all CNAs working at least 30 hours per week at Waveny for a year or more.

“This was a tremendously exciting opportunity for our CNAs to learn more about Waveny, themselves and how to be a role model for their colleagues,” said Administrator Elyse Dent of the program which was funded by a grant from the New Canaan Community Foundation. “The participants’ commitment, dedication and excitement have been contagious, and many more of our staff members have indicated their desire to be considered, should we receive further grant monies to repeat the program.”

Education on grants and fund raising for this and similar programs was a featured part of the curriculum.

For more information, call 203-594-5200 or visit waveny.org.

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