Meet Ginger
Executive Director
The executive director, along with our friendly and professional staff, strives to create positive, stimulating ways for residents to continue living life with meaning and purpose. We are a friendly family where we treat residents like real people with real life stories.
Our community is a great story that includes heartwarming chapters and incredibly unique characters all in a wonderful setting. Here is the executive director’s story:
In what ways do your residents inspire you?
When they keep going despite a disability, when they try something new, when they tell you that they call the community “home.”
Do you have any memorable experiences with a particular resident you would like to share?
An Alzheimer’s resident found a special place in my heart. He never could remember my name, but always smiled and said, “Where have you been all day?” when I walked into the community. One day after his wife passed, he was having a rough day, so he came and sat in my office for an hour or so and just talked. For the first time, in a long time, he was able to put thoughts and words together talking about the life that he and his wife had.
How do you honor your residents at your community?
By being respectful, listening to their questions and concerns. Providing them with honest answers even when it’s not what they want to hear. Interacting with them as much as possible.
Tell us about a resident with a remarkable life story?
We currently have a resident who lived to be 106 and was known for being the best domino player in the community. She continued to teach others with incredible patience, even when she knew we weren't getting it!
How long have you worked in the retirement industry?
11 years.
What do you like best about your job?
Seeing a resident smile.
What do you like to do in your free time and why?
Gardening, yardwork, and walking. It’s quiet and relaxing. I love to be outdoors.
If you could meet one person, past or present, who would it be and why?
Byron Katie, an amazing lady whose motto and title of her book is Loving What Is.
What’s your favorite movie and why?
“The Green Mile.” Things aren’t always what they seem.
What’s your favorite dish or dessert and why?
My Mom’s homemade banana pudding. It’s just the best and she always made it for me as a kid.
In what ways do your employees inspire you?
When they excel beyond their own expectations.
How do you create a family-like atmosphere at your community?
By always having an open door policy, listening to them whether it be personal or business, try to get to know some of their likes and dislikes, and interacting with them.
Tell us about an employee who embodies one of our core values – integrity, respect, responsibility, professionalism or teamwork.
I currently have a few that come to mind quickly and exemplify all these qualities a majority of the time. They are always trying to go the extra mile, willingness to work extra shifts, always treating the residents with respect and dignity, enthusiastic when training new employees. They are always trying to do their best.
At Horizon Bay, we understand that deciding where to live is a big decision that deserves careful thought. I invite you to visit us, stop by for lunch or be a guest at one of our special events or classes. I look forward to meeting you.