While COVID-19 was still new and relatively unknown in February of this year, the one thing we did know, was that dealing with this virus would take the combined efforts of our residents, family members and associates in order to keep those most vulnerable safe. The phrase “Heritage United” was born out of the mission to protect our residents, and we repeatedly saw this displayed in a variety of ways.
Our Heritage United Family
Family members suspended visits and opted for virtual connections. They dropped off supplies for their loved ones in our foyers rather than delivering to resident apartments. Families rallied around our teams with encouraging words and supportive gestures, all the while placing trust in us as we made difficult decisions.
Residents have been asked to do things we could never have imagined nine months ago. They have trusted our protocols, worn masks outside of their apartments and stayed socially distant between one another. Residents graciously allowed dining services to deliver room trays rather than enjoying a meal amongst friends and chose to partake in hallway activities in lieu of large group functions.
Associates have been consistent with their commitment to care for our resident, providing medical attention and companionship. They have worn more Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in the past year than they’ve worn in their entire lives. And they’ve done it all with a smile on their face, and unending love for our residents.
At the onset of COVID-19, we were unsure how this worldwide pandemic would impact our associates and their ability to care for our residents. To ensure our residents had uninterrupted care, we created the Heritage United bonus plan for those roles that are directly on the front lines, working one-on-one with residents. Caregivers, housekeepers, maintenance, dining and life enrichment associates that committed working with us from March through the end of August would be eligible for a $1,000 bonus. We are pleased to share that we had hundreds of associates who met the bonus requirements, and we will be paying over $340,000 to our hard working, front line team members on their second paychecks this September. Their dedication is an integral piece of the Heritage United mission. We are grateful for their “can do” attitude and consistent care for those inside our communities.
Heritage United. Two simple words that, when combined under these circumstances, pack a whole lot of meaning and emotion. Heritage United means understanding short term sacrifices, and pausing on what we once knew as normal, has a long-term effect on our residents’ health. Especially those residents who are immunocompromised. Heritage United means we’re all on the same team. We all want the same thing. Every single one of us longs for the day we return to normalcy.
Our dining, activities and visits won’t always look the way they do now. We will eventually return to walking around the community without masks and leaving the building without discussing quarantine upon return. We will get there. Together. For now, while we continue navigating an ever-changing forefront, let’s stand together. United. We may not always agree on specific protocol or how it impacts one another. But what we can agree on, is that we all have a heart for the residents inside of these walls. We ask you to continue standing united with us as we cycle through the phases of reopening, and colored zones. Your support not only means a lot to our residents, it’s also a morale booster for our associates.
While we know there is true covid-fatigue in our cities, states and country, we remain committed to upholding the mission of Heritage United. We invite you to consider joining our Heritage United movement in one (or more) of the following ways:
Connect with us on Facebook
We have created a Facebook profile picture template to be used by anyone who supports the Heritage United mission. It’s free and easy to upload! Simply go to your Facebook page, and click on the update option on your profile picture. When a window pops up, click the option that says “Add Frame” at the top of the screen. Type “Heritage United Profile Frame” in the search bar and select the option that reflects the image below. Then click “Use as Profile Picture”. Done!
Gear up in Heritage United Swag
We have re-opened our virtual Heritage United swag store. Soft and comfy t-shirts, sweatshirts, baseball caps, masks and much more are available. Seeing families, residents and other associates wearing the Heritage United logo is encouraging to all. You can shop the virtual store from now through September 7th, when the site will close to prep orders. Take note! 100% of the proceeds from the virtual store will go to our Employee Care Fund, a 501c3 non-profit created to help our associates through financially difficult times. Did you know, that since the onset of COVID-19, we’ve been able to help 13 associates through difficult times? Our Employee Care Fund has given nearly $13,000 to associates who needed financial support throughout the pandemic. Your purchase on our website helps us continue to help more associate’s in need!
You can access the virtual store here: https://store.ideal-images.com/heritage_united/shop/home
Win $500 by Telling Your Heritage United Story
Whether you’re an associate, a resident or a loved one, we recognize you’ve been through a lot this year. We want to understand what Heritage United means to you. For an adult child, it might mean you’re grateful for a particular caregiver who kept you informed of your loved one’s situation when you were unable to see them. For a resident, you may have felt a renewed confidence in the infection control protocols put in place to keep you safe. Perhaps you’re an associate who felt an immense desire and pull to continue caring for your residents even when it was hard.
We want to know your story. We want to share it with others to be a source of encouragement when covid-fatigue sets in and we ache for normalcy. Your stories will help and motivate others.
We are asking residents, families and associates to put together a quick letter or video explaining what Heritage United means to them. Or to answer the question of why do you continue to trust, to support and to endure even during difficult times?
There is nothing more impactful than the words of someone who has walked, or is walking, the emotional journey. Please share your uplifting experiences and stories so they might be a light for others. While videos are preferred, letters or emails with pictures are welcome as well.
To encourage more storytelling, we will be awarding $500 to the associate who shares the most impactful story, and $500 to a resident/family member. All entries must be in by September 25, 2020 to be considered for the contest. All submissions understand their entries may be used in further communication, promotions and/or social media. Winners will be announced by October 9, 2020.
Videos, emails and photos can be submitted to: inquiries@heritage-communities.com.
Handwritten notes can be mailed to:
Heritage Communities
Attention: Heritage United Campaign
16934 Frances St, #200
Omaha, NE 68130
While we say it often, thank you for your continued trust and support this year. We have come together through this storm. As we continue to stay together and work alongside one another, we will get through this. You are a critical component of our Heritage United mission, thank you for all you do.