Since starting work as a chef at Atria Fairhaven in Fairhaven, Massachusetts in 2003, Christina Lindh hasn’t missed a day. Regularly taking time to chat with residents, Christina works to accommodate food preferences and make each resident feel special; for one resident who didn’t like the peppers in the meatloaf, she made a small, separate meatloaf without peppers
just for them. Her remarkable commitment to her work is evident in the care she shows each and every resident, and her
dedication to Atria’s mission to promote exceptional service has earned her an Exceptional Service Award.

Founded in 2005, Atria’s Exceptional Service Award is granted to employees who go above and beyond to enhance the lives and exceed the expectations of residents every day. Since the inception of the program, Atria has honored 275 employees with the award.

Every quarter, Executive Directors across the nation are asked to nominate any front-line staff member they feel best exemplifies Atria’s mission. Every nominee receives a letter of commendation from John Moore, CEO of Atria Senior Living Group. Twenty-five nominees are then chosen from the group as Exceptional Service Award recipients. In addition to the plaque, winners receive a $500 bonus, and their stories and photos are featured on a poster displayed in every Atria community across the nation.

“When it comes to fulfilling our mission of enhancing the lives and exceeding the expectations of our residents, no other group of employees has a greater impact than our frontline community staff. They have a unique passion for serving others and as a result of their outstanding customer service, Atria is recognized as an industry leader,” says Anne Pinter, Vice President of Human Resources. “It’s an honor for us to recognize through the Exceptional Service Award those employees who ensure our residents receive the very finest senior living experience possible.”

Christina’s story is typical of award winners. Although her title is Chef, she participates in all aspects of food service, from cooking meals to serving them. Not only does she strive to prepare flavorful, nutritious meals, she also makes it a point to get to know residents. Christina and her three dogs regularly visit the community on her days off to chat with residents and get to know them outside of the kitchen.

“There is never a day that Christina isn’t smiling,” says Janice O’Connell, Food Service Director at Atria Fairhaven. “She is always helping the other staff members with their work. She is a pleasure to work with and a joy to be around. I think we’ll keep her!”

Christina has long dedicated her life to others. She served in the Coast Guard for five years, receiving culinary training while feeding servicemen and women. After leaving the Coast Guard, she arrived at Atria Fairhaven and has since been serving Fairhaven seniors with a dedication that is unsurpassed.

“Receiving this award is such an honor,” Christina says. “Thank you.” We salute Christina for her commitment to serving our residents!