CALA News & Views | Issue 52 | Workforce

OSCAR HERRERA Oscar’s journey began in a high school classroom, where a chance encounter with a flyer announcing Continuing Life’s

scholarship program changed the trajectory of his life. He seized the opportunity to go through the program while he was employed. This unique arrangement allowed him to learn the ins and outs of resident care, develop communication skills and master time management – all essential skills that would serve him well in a fast-paced environment. Upon completion of the program, Oscar transferred to the skilled nursing facility where he honed his clinical expertise and learned the true value of teamwork and compassion. He was also encouraged by mentors and the supportive environment to pursue higher education, which he said wouldn’t have happened without such valuable experience he received in the program.

A Shared Vision for Future Leaders

Taken together, Carlton Senior Living and Continuing Life exemplify how senior living communities can develop early-career professionals through structured yet flexible programs. By combining immersive, rotational internships with strategic educational partnerships, these organizations create pathways for students – many of whom may not have previously considered a senior living career – to experience the rewards and possibilities in the field. Carlton’s approach shows how exposure to multiple facets of operations can lay the groundwork for future leadership. Meanwhile, Continuing Life’s emphasis on clinical pathways addresses a critical staffing need and offers students a tangible way to break into healthcare or senior care. Both organizations, however, share the conviction that early career programs must be robust yet adaptable, reflecting the diverse career aspirations of the next generation. “By creating opportunities for students to explore, grow and thrive in senior living, we are not only filling immediate staffing needs but also investing in the future of the profession,” Coluzzi said. Jorgensen-Kares echoed that sentiment, adding that early exposure to senior living – whether through tours, part time work or scholarship programs – can ignite a long-term passion for serving older adults. “These students are pre disposed and hungry to learn,” she said. As senior living continues to evolve and the demand for senior care expands, programs like these will remain essential. They build a pipeline of skilled professionals who understand the nuances of resident care, cultivate a sense of community and bring fresh ideas to longstanding challenges. By placing a premium on mentorship, hands-on learning and personalized growth, Carlton Senior Living and Continuing Life LLC are helping to shape the next generation of leaders –individuals who can carry forward the values of care, innovation and compassion. g

STORIES

ARIANNA MUNOZ For Arianna, the OakView Health Center scholarship program was more than just financial assistance – it was the key that unlocked her dream of attending nursing school. By covering her tuition, the scholarship lifted a weight off her shoulders allowing her to concentrate fully on her studies. In addition to monetary support, she received mentorship from seasoned professionals who nurtured her skills and inspired her to embrace the values of empathy, resilience and continuous learning. This enriched educational experience became the foundation upon which she built her career, culminating in her current role as a charge nurse in the skilled nursing facility. The support she received “not only made my nursing education possible but also inspired me to pursue a career dedicated to providing compassionate care to others,” she said.

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