The roofing is complete, windows are installed, and the interior drywall work has begun – construction of the new Grove Nursing Home continues to take shape and progress on schedule.

Behind the scenes, the Arnprior Regional Health (ARH) team is focused on the necessary preparations to transition smoothly to the new home and to also build its healthcare team to match the 60 per cent increase in the number of residents who will call the new Grove home.

“We are thrilled for the community that in a matter of months we will be increasing much-needed long-term care capacity from 60 to 96 residents.” said Judith Gilchrist, VP, Long-Term Care, ARH. “Our focus is to grow our wonderful team of healthcare professionals, so we continue enhancing our person-centred approach to care that prioritizes each resident’s personalized health and well-being needs.”

Ahead of this summer, the Grove has started to hire new team members with a focus on Personal Support Workers (PSWs).

Meet Lori Branje, PSW, Grove Nursing Home

Lori Branje, PSW, The Grove

Lori Branje is a recent graduate of the PSW training program at Willis College. Her path to deciding to become a PSW was unexpected and at times with a heavy heart.

“My daughter worked as PSW and loved the role but sadly passed away nine years ago,” explained Lori. “She was my side kick, and we were really close. I was lost without her and felt there was no meaning left for me.”

One day, Lori was on her computer and came across information about Willis College’s PSW training program and she decided to apply.

“The first week of my Grove placement, I felt like I had meaning in my life again,” said Lori. “Spending time and supporting the residents picked me back up and I’ve really enjoyed the work.”

After Lori passed her PSW exam in December 2020, she joined the Grove team officially.

“The Grove is like a big family – everyone is there to help each other,” shared Lori. “I love bringing a smile to the residents’ faces and helping them out. It’s a feel-good experience.”

Meet Bailey Kausch, PSW, Grove Nursing Home

Bailey Kausch, PSW, The Grove

Bailey Kausch is a familiar face at the Grove. She began as a casual PSW in fall 2018 and more recently came on full time.

“I wanted to get into healthcare because I really love helping people,” explained Bailey, who has worked as a PSW in retirement homes, homecare, and long-term care. “My preference is long-term care because it’s more of a home feel and I love seeing and chatting with the residents.”

The residents are a big part of what makes Bailey’s work special.

“When you see the residents every day, you get to know them and they get to know you,” she said. “You learn how to joke with each person and it’s nice when you can have a laugh, especially when they’re having a tough day.”

Bailey enjoys the Grove’s comfortable and friendly work environment, and what stands out to her is that each staff member can rely on their colleagues to help when needed.

The Grove Nursing Home is on track to open its doors in August 2021. Follow along with the construction progress by viewing real-time photos here.