Meet Cheryl Gumlaw, Director of Life Enrichment
Cheryl Gumlaw believes in fate. In 2006, she came across a “help wanted” ad in the local newspaper for an Activity Assistant position at Jewish Nursing Home. She was hired soon after her interview and as she emphatically states, “I never looked back from that day on. Accepting the job was the best decision I ever made!”
Born and raised in Springfield, Massachusetts, Cheryl’s close knit family consisted of her parents and sister. She attended Springfield Technical Community College, receiving a certification in Dental Assisting. Cheryl worked as a Dental Assistant for 10 years. During that time Cheryl met her husband Roy and the couple had three children: Tara, Chad and Stacie. Working as a salon coordinator in a day spa made Cheryl realize how much she was drawn to the elderly population. She enjoyed talking to them when they came for their weekly blow dry. “They really just wanted to talk and have me listen to them,” explains Cheryl.
After six years, Cheryl’s role as Activity Assistant grew into Life Enrichment Director, a position which she has held for the last 12 years. It is a role she thoroughly enjoys. “What I love most,” said Cheryl, “is being able to bring joy to our residents by listening to their needs, hearing what they miss most, and creating days filled with meaningful engagement. We are constantly asking our residents what activities they want to see on the calendar and do our best to make them happen.” Added Cheryl, “We truly want their input and want them to feel heard.”
Clearly, Cheryl has achieved this goal. The year’s highlights include three fun and much-loved events: the Senior Prom, a Hawaiian Night Luau and the Annual Variety Show. “Our happiest times are when families attend our events and watch their loved ones engaged in the activities. Seeing them participating and having fun means everything!”
Now the proud grandmother of three of the “most beautiful grandchildren ever,” Cheryl adores spending tine with Paxton (8), Phoenix (6) and Marla (22 months). “They are the loves of my life,” acknowledges Cheryl.
In addition to her grandchildren, Cheryl takes time to do the things that make her happy: cooking, baking, reading and vacationing with good friends. Up next: a trip to Vieques, an island off the coast of Puerto Rico.
Cheryl believes her co-workers and staff are a big reason why she enjoys her job so much. “I greatly appreciate my co-workers in every department. They are such a great group of people and I enjoy working alongside them each and every day,” says Cheryl. “I also have the best staff ever! I couldn’t ask for more wonderful, supportive people. They have become my extended family. What a blessing that is!”
