01 Apr Social Workers Enrich Lives and Empower Independence for Older Adults
Social workers are dedicated and compassionate people who shape the lives of those they work with. At RiverSpring Living, these individuals are enriching lives each day and making lasting impacts on the older adults we serve across the organization.
Sonia Rodriguez, Resident Services Coordinator
Sonia Rodriguez works with our skilled nursing residents. Her journey to social work was an unexpected discovery, as she found her calling later in life.
“There are so many experiences and relationships with our residents that have left a memorable impact in my career,” she says.
Through her encounters with residents like Ms. L, whose limited speech couldn’t mask her vibrant spirit, Sonia learned the language of empathy. With each interaction, she has been able to understand unspoken needs, fostering moments of joy and connection.
Venerda Pagan, Resident Services Coordinator
Venerada Pagan’s passion for social work stems from a lineage of caregivers, instilling in her a sense of duty to help others. Drawing from her family’s legacy, she navigates elder care with kindness and determination.
“Offering opportunities for meaningful engagement and participation in decision making can empower older adults to maintain autonomy and dignity,” she says.
For Venerada, seeing a resident smile is more than a passing moment—it’s a testament to the impact of her compassionate support and the guidance she’s able to provide.
Harry Claude Boutin, Social Worker
Harry Claude Boutin works with our underserved, low-income members throughout New York City, and he embodies the essence of person-centered care, advocating tirelessly for their independence and dignity.
“It’s part of my ethos to serve and empower a person to achieve his or her goal,” he says.
With a blend of empathy and resourcefulness, he navigates the complex web of challenges that accompany aging, ensuring that each individual’s journey is met with respect and understanding.
Anne Weisbrod, Director of Social Services
Anne Weisbrod’s childhood visits to her grandmother’s nursing home sparked a lifelong commitment to serving the older adult population. Through her daily interactions, she learns as much from the residents as they do from her, fostering a culture of respect and understanding.
“Everything I do, day to day, inspires me. I’m always learning new things from the residents who have so much to give despite physical or cognitive limitations,” she says.
Anne’s dedication to empowering residents to make informed decisions stems from her belief in the transformative power of independence and choice.
Jade Chin, Resident Services Coordinator
Jade Chin’s fascination with human behavior led her to the path of social work where she discovered the depths of human resilience. She has been able to facilitate healing and growth between residents and their loved ones, transforming moments of tension into opportunities for connection and understanding.
“As a social worker, we wear many hats and being a facilitator or an educator are just one of those,” she says.
Through her advocacy and support, Jade encourages residents to embrace their strengths and navigate life’s challenges with grace.