An Observation
I was walking through Flower Mart in Mount Vernon Place in downtown Baltimore this weekend when a gentleman approached me and said, “Do you work at Roland Park Place (RPP)?” Before I write any further, it’s important to know I was wearing a Roland Park Place hoodie. I said, “Yes! I run the Programs and Special Events Department.” He said, “How long have you worked at Roland Park Place?” I said, “Close to four years.” He said, “Do you enjoy working at Roland Park Place?” I said, “Yes, absolutely!”
At this point I was becoming suspicious, maybe a little paranoid, thinking I was being tested or that RPP sent out spies to learn more about their employees and their true feelings about the company. (As I write this, I am laughing out loud because what I just wrote sounds ridiculous, and our employees are currently completing the 2026 “Great Place To Work” survey).
Shortly after, this gentleman, whose name I can’t remember, but I can remember his mother’s name, proceeded to share his thoughts about RPP, and they were all about his mother, who was a former resident. She arrived living independently. Ultimately, she would move to assisted living, and then to memory care. I am not sure how long she lived at RPP, but that is where she died.
He spoke so lovingly about RPP and the quality care his mother received. He gushed over the employees, telling me how wonderful and attentive they were, not only to his mother but to his entire family. He talked in detail about the typical family misgivings and uncertainty about moving a parent into a retirement community, only to realize RPP was the right choice. He said, “I’m indebted to Roland Park Place.” His gratitude was palpable.
I must admit, that was a proud moment for me too because I share his sentiments. We do have a wonderful team. If there is a word better than wonderful, please let me know because that’s what our employees are. We are a hardworking, caring, and committed team. Our daily goal, to go the distance and be our best, and when we can’t be that, knowing when to throw in the towel, because our focus must always be our residents.
At the bottom of this page, I reposted a blog post I had written one year ago today. It’s a complimentary piece to the one you just read. How apropos! – paerki
May 4, 2025: Another rainy day in the city, and I love it! I enjoy walking in the rain, hanging out under large, lush tree branches for protection, while listening to the raindrops lift off one leaf, only to land on another and another. It's music to my ears. Rain or shine, play outdoors.
New day. New week. New goals. Take a moment to reflect on what you want to achieve this week. I have my list. I know what needs to be done.
At the moment, at work, I am a one man show, but that's okay because someone is always stopping by my office to say, "Do you need any help?" My usual response is... No. Knowing people care matters. It fuels me to get the job done.
I work in a caring community. It really is a great place to work. I count my blessings for that.
I am fortunate to have a job that doesn’t feel like a job. I enjoy my work and feel fulfilled.
I am happy to have a job that aligns with my interests, working with people who share my values. On occasion it feels like a hobby.
As for my boss, he listens, sometimes too carefully. Rarely do we disagree, but when we do... We do and move on. You can’t ask for more than that.
We have a responsive HR department. Communications are always timely. That's a big deal. They are really friendly, too. I value the latter.
As for the employees and residents, it’s a gooey, sweet engagement. For the most part, all are genuinely kind, thoughtful and caring. We smile, laugh, and communicate meaningfully. We check in with each other, too.
If you get anything from my message I hope it is this… You must give to get. It’s imperative you find value in yourself. If you can do that, it becomes easier to find it in others.
Have a wonderful week, everyone. That's my plan. – paerki
