Inside Athena: Oxford Activities Assistants Who “Spoil” Their Residents
HAVERHILL, M.A. — Kandie Fredette and James Clark have worked at The Oxford Rehabilitation & Health Care Center for four years.
Fredette joined as an Activities Assistant and Clark began in security before moving over to recreation two years ago. The two help plan, organize, and put on the activities and events held for residents each day. It could be bringing a performer in, setting up arts and crafts, or BINGO, which they both said is a resident favorite.
The “fun job” is what Fredette tells people she has at the center. She has had loved ones stay at The Oxford, including her father. When the opportunity opened for her to join the recreation team, she jumped on it because she saw the impact the recreation team had on her father.
“I’ve been very happy doing it,” she said.
James Clark at The Oxford.
Clark’s goal was to become a police officer. He joined The Oxford’s security team to gain some experience, but his career goals soon changed. His mission has always been to help others.
“If I [can help people] while also having fun, getting to see a smile on peoples’ faces, that’d be great,” he said.
Donna Byrne, Director of Therapeutic Recreation at the center, said “I cannot stress enough having consistent, longevity… they know the residents. They know the routine.”
“It’s like family with these residents. The residents thank them at the end of the day for their groups and all the extra attention they get. It makes a big difference,” Byrne said of her two employees, adding they “spoil” the residents with love.
Kandie Fredette at The Oxford.
Fredette and Clark enjoy making people happy. They both share stories of residents who were able to open up and find comfort at the center with the help of activities and building bonds.
“They continue to go above and beyond to ensure that the needs are met of our residents,” Diamond Boone, Director of Therapeutic Recreation for Massachusetts and Rhode Island, said. “They have established therapeutic relationships with residents at The Oxford in which allows the residents to build trust and respect.”
Boone continues to acknowledge the two adding they “know the true meaning of teamwork” and their dedication and determination are noticeable.
Kandie and James are proud of their colleagues at The Oxford and the work they do to help the community.
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