Purpose and Meaning: A Stabilizing Force
Contributed by: Alysia Robinson, Communications Manager

Purpose is universal. It can be found in every role, in every hobby, in every passion, and in every talent. It floods all aspects of life and is realized in various ways for different individuals. For some, their purpose is fulfilled through working at a post office or running a grocery store. For others, their purpose may be to direct blockbuster films or become the next world record holding Olympian. Regardless of the position, these meaningful roles provide direction, nurture hope, and establish legacy. They remind us that every life has value, and no matter how large or small the responsibility, our contributions are immensely significant to our communities and society.

At Crestwood, we understand the importance of meaningful roles and how they materialize purpose and support recovery. Through our Dreamcatchers Empowerment Network (DEN), we help persons served redefine their identities and reestablish their life through employment and community connections. We believe that meaningful roles are a stabilizing force that allows persons served to contribute and be seen for their strengths and potential. At Crestwood, Dreamcatchers isn’t just a name, it’s a promise!

We provide that hope for people who have been told ‘no’ so many times. ‘You can’t do this; you got to get your symptoms and medication under control’ … We [Dreamcatchers Empowerment Network] come in on the other side and say if you want to work, we’re going to give you the opportunity … [For persons served] it’s fulfilling—that need that ‘I am valued, I have a purpose, and I am going to work.’

– Regina Kaiser, Executive Director, Dreamcatchers Empowerment Network

By supporting persons served in discovering meaningful roles, we instill hope that leads them down a path of purpose. As British Politician, Charles Kennedy once said, “We actually believe in hope. But hope requires purpose. And purpose requires direction.” Through DEN, we are proud to provide persons served with supportive services that bring forth greater meaning in their lives! When do you feel happiest? What are some things that you do that provide you with a sense of meaning and purpose?

 

It’s Pride Month!
Contributed by: Crestwood’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Team

 

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA) Week: June 12 – 18
Contributed by: Hope Parr, Communications Manager

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA) Week is June 12 – 18 this year, with the theme of “We Are the Champions!” This mantra applauds the hard work and dedication of all CNAs, including those at Crestwood! It speaks to their resilience and resolve; their compassion and commitment; their gentleness and grace; their perseverance and purpose.

Not only are our Crestwood CNAs champions, but they also champion others every day! They come alongside the people we serve as mentors, cheerleaders, and motivators. They nurture and encourage. They support and serve. CNAs are an essential part of our Crestwood family and we thank you for your unwavering commitment to our persons served and your colleagues. This CNA Week, and every day, we celebrate and appreciate you!!

 

Celebrate the Start of Summer!
Contributed by: Hope Parr, Communications Manager

 

Mindfulness Meditation: A Jar of Positivity
Contributed by: Alysia Robinson, Communications Manager

Like an anchor that secures a ship in place by grabbing hold of the depths of the sea, positive affirmations are equally as grounding for our mind, will, and emotions. Similar to the hands that contour potter’s clay, our words shape our world. Our thoughts and speech are intangible influences that rewire our brain to accommodate whatever we dwell on. This adaptation is not just psychological, but physical. Yes, what we think and speak contributes to changes in the physical shape of our brain, also known as Neuroplasticity.¹ Because our brains adapt to the quality of our thoughts, positive affirmations are a great way to reinforce healthy conclusions and opinions that support mental wellness. Positive affirmations are empowering statements used to shift negative self-talk and beliefs, making them a great mindfulness practice.

To incorporate positive affirmations into your life, try creating a Jar of Positivity. These jars are full of phrases, statements, scriptures, quotes, etc. designed to empower you, encourage you, influence introspection, and help you detach from negative thinking that instigates depression and stifles joy.

Here’s what you’ll need to start:

• A mason jar or any jar (no lid required)
• Construction paper, mini envelopes, decorative paper, etc.
• A writing utensil (pen, pencil, permanent marker)
• Scissors

How to assemble your jar:

1. Cut out rectangles or squares of your paper
2. Write one affirmation per piece of paper
3. Fold up the paper and place it in the jar or in your mini envelope, then in the jar
4. Repeat until the jar is full or you have reached your desired number of affirmations

You can pull an affirmation from your Jar of Positivity daily, weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, or as needed and read it out loud to yourself. Here are a few affirmations to jumpstart your journey towards positive thinking:

• I excel in all things, at all times, with all people, under every circumstance.
• I walk in a season of success and prosperity, and nothing will undermine or hinder my progress.
• Greatness and nobility are my portion.

 

Notable Days in June

June 1 – 30: Pride Month
June 1 – 30: Caribbean American Heritage Month
June 1 – 30: Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month
June 12 – 18 Certified Nursing Assistants Week
June 14: Flag Day
June 15: Father’s Day
June 19: Juneteenth
June 20: Start of Summer

 

We hope you find the Employee Center to be a helpful resource. If you have any questions or suggestions on what you would like to see featured on the site, please email us at employeecenter@cbhi.net or fill out our feedback form.