Stephanie Rodriguez
“You Feel Right at Home”
Story by Linda Philipp
PATRICIA HOLGUIN, Executive Director
Caring for the elderly, especially those with dementia and Alzheimer’s, is not an easy task. It requires patience, skill, kindness, understanding and dedication. Finding individuals who possess those qualities requires special insight and an intention to form a team of professionals who consider the work their life’s vocation.
That’s exactly what Patricia Holguin, Executive Director of Oakmont of Brookside, has done. She understands the true meaning of the word profession, which is “the body of persons engaged in such a vocation.” Her executive team of seven managers is the epitome of this definition. To a person, they believe that Oakmont’s values of authenticity, teamwork, compassion, commitment and resilience are lived by each team member. It takes this type of teamwork to help the residents and their families live their best lives.
When assembling this team, Patricia recognized that opportunities for professional development, mentoring and work-life balance would also be important. She keeps an open door so that managers can discuss issues “behind closed doors” if necessary. Her team knows that continuing education is encouraged and that promotions can come from within the organization when earned. They also are grateful that their boss is open to providing flexible time off to manage personal responsibilities when required.
While Patricia is eager to sing her team’s praises, each individual manager echoes her philosophy. Here’s a sampling of what each had to say about their professional team:
RUBEN ADAME, Executive Chef
“I joined Oakmont of Brookside at the start of the pandemic as a means of job security. What I got was much more. I found a place where I could be of service while doing what I love. There is a charm to this community that is unlike any other. When I am here, I feel like I am at home.”
EDWIN PADILLA, Maintenance Director
“I wanted to expand my knowledge and strengthen my skills. I’m happy doing what I’m doing. Oakmont is giving me trust in myself to grow in my career and succeed. Thank you Oakmont of Brookside–my family!”
ROXY JEWELL-RICHARDSON, Marketing Director
“I came to work at Oakmont of Brookside because of the positive experiences I have had each time I visited. I have a deep respect for our Executive Director, Patricia Holguin. Working with Patty is a joy every day. The values we share are lived by each team member and integral to helping each person live their best life.”
ALLYSON RODRIGUEZ, Activity Director
“I was hired as an on-call concierge and just recently stepped into the role of Activity Director. I want to spend time spreading all the love I have to give, to make a difference in others’ lives and to always bring a smile to their faces. It’s such a blessing to feel the warmth and love that is within our community and to be a part of such a wonderful team. I’m especially grateful to always have an opportunity to grow so that I have more to provide our residents and team.”
NADYA ROSALES, Memory Care (Traditions) Director
“Prior to being hired in 2014 as a care provider, I was a full-time stay-at-home mother of two. During those years, I went to school and became a Certified Nurse Assistant. I made a commitment to myself to find work that provided a balance between home and work. Graveyard shifts provided that opportunity. During two years working graveyard, a lot of sacrifices had to be made. After a couple of promotions, I became Resident Service Coordinator and, later, Activity Director. Those roles prepared me for my current position as Memory Care Director, which I assumed at the beginning of the pandemic in April 2020. Since then, I have been able to assist and guide many families through challenging behaviors when caring for those with dementia and Alzheimer’s. Those instances have helped me grow and see life differently. Daily moments with residents validate my choices and reassure me that I am where I should be.”
CLAUDIA VALENZUELA, Health Services Director
“For as long as I’ve been in my profession, geriatrics has been my passion. Being able to care for residents with an amazing dedicated and motivated team has been the best experience by far. The daily atmosphere, teamwork and family unity make Oakmont one of a kind.”
JILL WILLIAMS, Business Office Director
“I joined Oakmont of Brookside because the community is always welcoming, there’s great energy and the company values align with mine. All our team members go above and beyond for the residents living here. As soon as you walk in, you feel right at home.”
So, what’s the key to building a successful, sustainable team? Is it money? Great benefits? An impressive health plan? While these are essential ingredients, it appears that Patty Holguin and the Oakmont of Brookside team have found that job security, mutual respect, opportunities to grow professionally and teamwork are the true secret sauce.
