Written by Resident Kate Ranieri
Moravian Village makes a practice of recognizing employees for their milestone anniversaries, promotions, and specific achievements. Distinct from recognition, Moravian Village also shows their appreciation for the intrinsic qualities and consistent contributions of employees. What sets it apart, however, from other retirement communities is how residents both recognize employees for specific accomplishments and show appreciation for the employees’ value to their department and to the Moravian Village community. For example, years ago, residents started a Christmas Employee Appreciation Fund for hourly employees, funded and administered entirely by Suites and Cottage residents. Over the past year, the Community Enhancement Committee launched the ad hoc Employee Celebration Committee with support from the Suites and Cottage councils, and the results have been overwhelmingly positive according to Reverend Mark Summer.
In a recent interview with Reverend Summer, I learned that he saw this celebration as an outgrowth of Spiritual Life to demonstrate gratitude toward the employees, but to do so in a very personal way. Through discussions with a select number of committee members, they did, indeed, make it personal and celebratory. Residents from the Suites and Cottages baked cookies. Committee members wrote handwritten thank you notes to each employee. In fact, employees seemed to enjoy seeing their full name on a bag intended for them. The celebration bag included candies, too. And all these goodies are packed in a white paper bag, bedecked with stickers, the thank you note, and curly ribbon to finish the look.
The responses have been joyful and fun. Lots of oohs and aahs. Some spontaneous hugs have happened. And the thanks can be heard over and over. Employees feel recognized for the important role they play in the Good Ship Moravian. And, according to residents who have delivered these lovely goody bags, the experience of delivering them illustrates so well the importance of helping people feel valued. This type of celebration boosts morale and strengthens the bond between residents and employees. And, as Rev. Summer pointed out, “We all have a role to play in showing gratitude toward staff.”
When asked what the future holds for the Committee, the good reverend said, “We’ll meet in December to review what worked, what needs improvements, and how we can find new ways to show our appreciation of all our employees in 2026.” And, for residents who might consider participating in the Employee Celebration Committee, Rev. Summer added, “The payoff is extraordinary for yourself.”