Meet George Silvia, Resident Engagement Director at Stonebridge at Burlington, whose five-year journey in Senior Living began after childhood weekends spent visiting residents at his mother’s assisted living community. Although he never expected to enter the field, a college job as an engagement assistant sparked a passion for making a meaningful difference in people’s lives each day. A lover of history, George’s favorite part of his work is learning from the rich stories of residents, from teachers and secretaries to engineers and veterans. While many assume engagement is just activities, he knows it’s truly about purpose, connection, and giving residents experiences they never thought they’d have again. George values the genuine sense of community at Northbridge, especially the support and accessibility of leadership. His favorite way to connect with residents is through Hometown History, the creative, educational program he developed that blends learning, fun, and meaningful connection.
Resident Engagement Director Spotlight – George Silvia
Resident Engagement Director: George Silvia
Community: Stonebridge at Burlington
How long have you been working in Senior Living and what first made you interested in the field?
I have been working in Senior Living for five years. Growing up, my mother worked in assisted living and would bring me to her community on weekends to spend time with the residents. While that was hugely impactful to me, I honestly never expected to go into the industry myself. In college, I began working in an assisted living community as an engagement assistant and absolutely fell in love with the role. Getting to go into work every day and come home each night knowing I made a real difference in people’s lives is the best gift I could ever ask for.
What is your favorite part about working in Senior Living?
My favorite part about working in Senior Living is getting to know my residents and the lives they have led. I love history and social studies, and being able to engage with around 9,000 years of human life every day is an amazing experience. From secretaries and teachers to engineers and veterans, every human has a story, and I am so privileged to be able to hear those stories.
What is one thing you wish everyone knew about being a Resident Engagement Director?
Our role can often seem like that of a cruise ship director. I can’t count the number of times I’ve been told, “So you’re the bingo guy?” But engagement is about so much more than fun. It’s about finding purpose, making connections, and giving residents opportunities and experiences they never expected to have again.
What is one piece of advice you would share with someone thinking of starting a career in Senior Living?
I truly believe that Senior Living is one of the best industries to work in. Being a part of someone’s personal journey is an honor and a privilege. Our communities are more than just workplaces, they are communities in every sense of the word. Be a part of that community; immerse yourself in it. That’s what makes it so special.
What is the best part about working at Stonebridge at Burlington or at Northbridge?
The best part about working at Northbridge is the real sense of community that’s felt not just at the individual level, but across the company. I’ve never worked anywhere else where I’ve personally interacted with the senior leadership team so much, had the opportunity to get to know them, and have them know me. I love feeling that if I ever want to reach out and ask questions, I could, and I’d be welcomed. That’s extraordinary.
What is your favorite way to connect with residents?
Hometown History is a program I developed based on my love of history and passion for creating unique programs that bring people together. I love incorporating history-based and educational programming in my monthly calendar. These programs allow residents to learn and grow while having fun and building connections, both with each other and with the greater community.