Kira Kulczycki, recreation aide

Recreation aide Kira Kulczycki treats everyone with respect. She listens wholeheartedly and does not rush people. Her responses are based on what will help them even if it is just being present with them. She respects people’s boundaries. Kira learns about residents and staff and uses that information to start a conversation or do something the person would enjoy. She is always adjusting the way she does things to ensure the person feels heard and acknowledged.

Kira spends time with others in joy or supporting them when they are feeling down or experiencing sorrow. Her positivity is infectious. Kira never judges anyone. She respects the fact that we are all different. She helps many residents come out of their shells. Everyone around her seems to feel better around her.

She fosters a caring, understanding environment. Collaborating with the team, she pushes for resident independence and dignity while also helping residents when they need assistance. She invites families to participate in the activities of the day.

When the entertainment was delayed during the holiday season, Kira stalled for time by singing holiday carols. Few people would have been comfortable standing in front of a group and singing, but she did it for residents.