Our days are filled with important duties and routines. Yet human connection takes precedence over the necessities of our job descriptions every time. You are why we're here.
We bring varied backgrounds and skills to our roles, but we are all here to love and support you.
Patty sets the tone at Brookside with a mix of education, healthcare experience, and compassion. She is a graduate of the University of Indianapolis, a licensed administrator, INALA board member, and a Dementia Certified Trainer.
Above all, Patty has a personal connection with her residents, making sure she knows each one on a first-name basis and that they know how important they are to her. "We are here to make a difference in people's day-to-day lives, and I am very proud of that. We are locally owned, so we take personal ownership of how we care for our residents. They are our family, and I can't think of anything more deserving of my time. " Patty has been married to her husband, Patrick, for 34 years and has two adult sons, Alex and Kevin, and one grandson. She loves being a grandma! She also has two puppies, Olive and Fawn Elizabeth.
Kara was born and raised in the Geist area and has always had a heart for serving others. She holds a BA from Indiana University and an Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Development from Ivy Tech. She is also a proud member of the McCordsville Chamber of Commerce. Kara began her career in Skilled Nursing as a Rehab Admission Coordinator, and came to learn the valuable role assisted living can play in seniors' lives.
She believes deeply in the lifestyle that Brookside provides, which gives residents more opportunities to stay physically and mentally active. “The goal is to help our residents enjoy a life full of friendships, food, and fun. It is so rewarding each and every day.”
One of her greatest joys is meeting residents who were once hesitant about moving, then seeing them flourish; sharing meals with new friends, participating in activities, and rediscovering a sense of belonging.
Kara lives in Geist with her husband, their three amazing children, and their energetic Yorkipoo. Her family is active in their Catholic church, local sports, and community events. When she’s not at Brookside, you can often find her jogging or enjoying time outdoors with her family.
Maria was born and raised in Indianapolis, earned her Associates Degree in Applied Science from MedTech College, is an LPN and certified phlebotomist and preceptor. She is also experienced in long-term care and rehab.
"It's important to me to lead by example, to be excellent at what I do. I think it's equally important to be skilled while being a good listener, smiling, giving hugs and encouraging my residents. That is what you do with your family, and these people are part of our family." Maria is married with three children, two step children and grandchildren.
Dawn holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Marian University. She also has additional training in dementia care, studied neuropsychology and cognitive psychology and is First Aid and CPR certified.
"I've had the privilege to mentor and train other Traditions Memory Care and Activity Directors and have developed daily routines to keep our residents engaged and able to enjoy each day to the fullest. I especially love watching them listen to music from their era and finding personal ways to make each one smile." Dawn was born and raised in Indianapolis and credits her loving family for her compassionate, fun-loving approach.
Cinder joins Traditions with more than 25 years of experience in non-profit and public organizations, and multiple roles ranging from administrative assistant to treasurer.
"I am thrilled to focus on making the transition to Traditions seamless and loving for new residents and families. This is not a transaction, but a time of change that can be filled with meaningful, lasting relationships and personal care." Cinder has been married for 39 years and is the proud mother of two grown sons and three grandchildren. She and her husband attend Indian Creek Christian and enjoy spending time with family and friends at their cabin in Southern Indiana.
Gerald graduated from Ivy Tech, is a certified Nursing Assistant and Home Health Care Aid, and holds Serve Safe and Mold Remediation certifications. He was also voted an American Senior Communities Employee of the Year and won the Traditions 2020 Above and Beyond Award.
"I have always been mechanically inclined, doing my own and family and friends' home repairs. I love utilizing this skill set to benefit our seniors.
God has given me love and compassion for my fellow man, helping me to urgently respond to their needs and to treat them as I would like to be treated. I am loyal and dedicated to my position, a leader who serves as an interim community manager and someone who ensures residents and families I am always available when they need me. I love knowing I am doing all I can to make a positive difference in our residents' daily lives." Gerald and his wife, Emma, have been married for 48 years. They have four children (two sons and two daughters), 22 grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
