Inside Athena: Oakland Grove’s Recreation Brings Passion to the Role
WOONSOCKET, R.I. — Danielle Flaxington started working at Oakland Grove Health Care Center in 2007 when she joined the team as a dietary aide. Little did she know this would mark the start of a career that would evolve over the years. She worked her way through various roles in dining including prep cook, cook, diet tech, and chef manager. Flaxington became a friendly and familiar face to both staff and residents.
Flaxington (left) during the 80’s themed party.
In August of 2023, Flaxington explored a new opportunity at Oakland Grove and stepped into the role of Recreation Director, a position that has allowed her to bring the same passion and creativity to enhancing residents’ quality of life.
“I had a lot of support from the team to transition into this position,” Flaxington said. “I’ve always loved being here, and it’s important to me to make our residents happy and feel like they’re truly at home.”
Flaxington said she focuses on what the residents want most. She listens to their needs and ideas through hands-on programming or one-on-one time, tailoring activities to their preferences.
“If they want a lemonade truck, we’ll get a lemonade truck,” she said.
She even helped encourage attendance at Resident Council meetings by offering cookies to increase attendance and make it a welcoming space.
“Food is the way to the heart,” she said.
She’s also started a snack cart, bringing a mobile store directly to residents who had expressed a desire to “shop” for their favorite treats.
“It just feels like home, and we get to have fun and make friends,” she said.
Follow Oakland Grove on Facebook and Athena Health Care Systems on Facebook and X. Interested in a career with Athena? Click here!