At Extendicare Hillcrest, home isn’t just a place – it’s a feeling. And it’s one that Residents’ Council President Elouise and Vice President Brenda go above and beyond to maintain for their fellow residents. Together, the two lifelong Albertans have built a culture of leadership, compassion, community and warmth in the Calgary home.
Elouise, a world traveler and former corporate travel services professional, brings a lifetime of experience and grace to her role. With eight years as President under her belt, she’s known for her tireless advocacy and her ability to listen deeply. When the President role became vacant in her second year at the home, she added her name to the ballot.
“I was really touched when the resident who ran against me said she’d be honored if I became President and declined to continue in the running,” Elouise recalls. “It inspired me to keep doing better and better for the residents.”
Brenda, a seamstress by trade and a natural caregiver by heart, is the glue that holds the social fabric of Hillcrest together.
“I help everybody all the time – I’m friends with everyone,” she says simply. “If someone looks bored, I encourage them to join in. We’re like a big family here.”
Creating community at Hillcrest
Together with support from fellow residents, Elouise and Brenda have transformed the Resident’s Council into a hub of connection and care. From organizing craft sessions and trivia nights to advocating for better food and cleaner hallways, their leadership is hands-on and heart-first. Brenda’s Sunday craft sessions have become a staple, with residents gathering to paint birdhouses, create canvas masterpieces with pouring techniques and share laughter.
“Even if you can’t do the craft perfectly, we’ll find a way for you to be part of it,” she says. “It’s about being sociable, being seen.”
Their impact goes beyond activities. Elouise and Brenda take it upon themselves to be the first point of contact for new residents, offering guidance, comfort, and encouragement. While the President and Vice President are often first-on, fellow residents also play a major role in welcoming new members of the community when they enter the home. The team-approach to welcoming newly admitted residents with open arms underscores the positivity and warmth of the community built in the home by its residents.
“A lot of people come in thinking, ‘I’m useless now,’” Brenda shares. “I tell them, ‘You’ve still got parts of you that work – let’s use them.’” Thanks to her encouragement, a resident who was once withdrawn, now builds model kits and plays his flute.
“We’re not just a bunch of people in rooms,” Brenda says.
How Residents’ Council and team members work together for change
Elouise and Brenda also serve as advocates, bringing resident concerns directly to the home’s leadership. Whether it’s a broken call bell or an interest in trying a new product, they ensure every voice is heard.
“We record everything and follow up,” Elouise explains. “We’re here to make sure things get done.”
Their leadership style is rooted in empathy, humor, and a deep belief in the value of every resident.
“They call me the surrogate mother,” Brenda laughs. “And sometimes, just ‘Boss Brenda.’”
But behind the nicknames is a profound truth: these women make Hillcrest feel like home.
Brenda feels that the key to success fostering community at Hillcrest is the daily collaboration and partnership with team members. Recreation Therapist Randy and Volunteer Coordinator Karen work closely with the Residents’ Council to action change. Partnering hand-in-hand with the Recreation department, activities and programs take shape for residents throughout the home to enjoy.
Elouise and Brenda remind us that leadership isn’t about titles – it’s about heart. It’s about showing up, speaking out, and lifting others up. And at Extendicare Hillcrest, thanks to their enthusiasm and commitment to bringing out the best in each person, every resident knows they belong.