Career Blog

We are excited to recognize our wonderful Resident Engagement Directors! Their dedication ensures our communities thrive, enriching the lives of residents through thoughtfully designed programs that promote engagement, joy, and connection. These leaders go above and beyond to create meaningful experiences that provide a supportive and stimulating environment. Meet a few of the amazing Resident Engagement Directors who make a difference every day!

Resident Engagement Director: Jennifer Gelinas
Community: Autumn Glen at Dartmouth

What first made you interested in working in Senior Living?

When I realized it was a great fit for me to utilize my teaching, customer service, interior design, and event planning experience from my previous work as a teacher, non-profit coordinator and the owner-operator and artist of a Freelance Surface Design Studio.

How long have you been working in Senior Living and what was your first job in this field?

13 years, I started out as a part time hourly activity assistant until I was promoted to Resident Engagement Director after receiving the appropriate mentoring, training and certification necessary to meet the responsibilities of being part of the management team.

What is your favorite part about working in Senior Living?

I have a personal connection to the senior living industry because I’ve seen firsthand how meaningful activities can positively affect the mental, physical, and emotional well-being of older adults. It’s a field that allows me to contribute to something bigger than myself, and that’s very fulfilling. I also appreciate working alongside a dedicated team of professionals who share the same goal of improving the lives of seniors. There’s a strong sense of camaraderie and teamwork, and that collaborative spirit is something I enjoy.

What is one thing you wish everyone knew about being a Resident Engagement Director?

The scope and value of the incredible opportunity you have to make a difference in someone’s life experience, and the joy you can bring to any given moment by delivering authentic hospitality and compassion when executing the many diverse responsibilities that make up the role.

What is one piece of advice you would share with someone thinking of starting a career in Senior Living?

When faced with managing or addressing difficult scenarios or behaviors amongst your senior residents and their families, try to remember, they are not trying to give you a hard time, they are having a hard time.

What keeps you invested in the field?

The Northbridge mission and its hope of building a community that feels like family, where every resident can feel supported and inspired to live life to the fullest.

What is your favorite part about your job?

I love being able to design and implement programs that bring joy and fulfillment to residents. Whether it’s a social activity, a wellness program, or a cultural event, I am truly motivated by knowing I’m contributing to their quality of life.

What is the best part about working at Autumn Glen or at Northbridge?

It is a small community of people who truly care about each other. Witnessing the joy that our residents are experiencing as our team strives to understand and meet their individual needs, I am proud of the confidence that the residents and their families have in the team we have built.

What is your favorite program to do with the residents?

I especially love when we are providing a novel learning experience, whether that be when the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra came to the community as part of their outreach work to hold a Music Emersion program or seeing a glass blowing demonstration at the Sandwich Glass Museum, it is inspiring to see our residents intently listen, watch and engage to learn something new and share how interesting it was and all they had learned together while reminiscing about their unique experiences with the given topic. It keeps me motivated to find new and creative opportunities to explore.