At The Arbor Company, we know that small details make a big difference. Many seniors choose our communities because they’re tired of the daily demands of cleaning but still want to live in immaculate, beautiful homes. Richard Blackmon, Housekeeping Supervisor at Arbor Terrace Willistown, is one of the most beloved members of our staff because of his zealous commitment to clean, beautiful homes and happy, thriving seniors.
Meet Richard Blackmon
A native of Philadelphia, Richard has served Arbor seniors for three years. He started his career here, and has stayed here because of his commitment to the work and the residents. As the Housekeeping Supervisor, his job is to maintain a spotless, welcoming environment in both the common areas and resident rooms. Richard says he sees this as a key component of resident satisfaction, because every resident prizes a clean and welcoming home.
Senior care is a natural fit for Richard’s gentle, enthusiastic personality. Residents might be surprised to learn that this friendly spirit used to work outdoors in a metal recycling plant, where he interacted with no one. Richard is much happier at Arbor. “There are so many very interesting people here,” he gushed. “I love hearing their stories.” He says the best advice he ever received from a resident was to keep smiling — something he’s always doing anyway.
“My favorite thing that will always remain a great memory is the time I share with Jim, one of the residents,” Richard added. “He enjoys the outdoors very much, and I am a nature freak. I love nature! I learn so much from Jim. I assist him with filling the bird feeders out on the back patio, and he shares his knowledge about the different kinds of birds. Thanks to him, I recently decided to try something different in my own backyard to see if the hummingbirds will come around.”
The Importance of Deep Connections
At Arbor, deep connections are the cornerstone of all we do. Our team believes in nurturing close and meaningful relationships with residents. Close connections between staff members are also important to us because they allow us to work together as a team with a shared mission. Richard has earned the trust and respect of all of his colleagues thanks to his strong commitment to fostering close connections with them, and to the Arbor mission.
Executive Director Mariam Basham said that Richard lives up to the Arbor commitment to service. “He goes above and beyond for everyone, truly living up to the goal of service with a smile,” she emphasized.
“Richard is truly a gentleman, and so hardworking,” said Michelle Alexander, Arbor Terrace Willistown’s front desk receptionist. “He is truly there for everyone, and never says no to any request.”
“He serves every resident like they are his own family member,” agreed Senior Care Counselor Donna Rachlin.
The Arbor Difference
The Arbor Company has proudly served seniors for three decades. We honor this privilege by constantly working to offer seniors more than they can get at home or anywhere else in the community. We believe that all seniors can and should lead lives of joy and purpose. Our job is to support seniors in their efforts to reach their individual retirement goals, and to offer options for finding fulfillment and meaning.
Our staff are the foundation upon which everything else is built. We believe in hiring caring, compassionate, smart people who respect seniors and want to make a difference in their world. If you believe in our mission, we’d love to have you on our team. And if you’re looking for a luxurious retirement surrounded by supportive and compassionate people, we can’t wait to talk to you. Give us a call to learn more about what makes Arbor Terrace Willistown so special.