Out & about at Buffalo Valley
Most of my days are spent in front of a computer screen. Don’t get me wrong; I enjoy my job. There is always something new to do and I interact with many colleagues through email and meetings.
But I like to be around people.
So getting outside my office to interact with other Diakon staff, residents, and clients is never an inconvenience—it’s a great reminder of why I work here. I am in this position to help advocate for and be a voice for those who may not be heard otherwise.
Their stories compel me. Sometimes I’m glad I have the safety of my office to shed a few tears quietly while I edit a story for a youth services newsletter. A few months ago, I took photos of and talked with residents as they moved into their new health care center at Buffalo Valley Lutheran Village.
That was when I witnessed the staff’s kindness and gentleness with each individual. From the friendly greetings of “welcome home” to hugs and comforting whispers,…
The center features a state-of-the-art concept, but some of the 102 residents were necessarily concerned about the change. That was when I witnessed the staff’s kindness and gentleness with each individual. From the friendly greetings of “welcome home” to hugs and comforting whispers, each employee somehow managed to encourage the residents while moving beds, chairs, and equipment efficiently.
I have met many people who have inspiring stories about how various staff members have helped to make a difference in their lives. My own grandmother needed rehab care and stayed a short time at Frey Village. Years after that, she was still receiving notes or phone calls from one of her favorite nurses there just to say hello.
That dedication is not just on our senior living side. Volunteer days at our Diakon Wilderness Center near Boiling Springs often include Diakon staff members and their families. And Diakon teams of staff members this year participated in two Highmark Walks, in which they raised thousands of dollars for various programs throughout the organization. Whether it is a senior living campus, a ministry support office or a child and family service program, the focus is the same: genuine compassion being put into action.
That makes me proud to be part of Diakon. And it inspires me to gladly sit in front of my computer each day to share the stories of all of those who make it happen.
By Melissa Kindall
Social Media and Special Communications Project Manager
Corporate Communications & Public Relations
Because we review comments, they do not appear immediately. Please do not submit each comment more than once. Please review our comment policy.
