Shelley Hartley smiles a lot at work.

As a Dietary Aide for the past 13 years at Carveth Care Centre, she finds her job fun and satisfying.

“I love it,” she says with a smile during a break from her work in the kitchen at the popular retirement lodge and long-term care home in Gananoque. “They say the way to a person’s heart is through their stomach. I enjoy filling the residents’ stomachs and making them happy.”

Shelley, 47, considers the home special.

“People look out for each other here,” she notes. “You don’t hear anyone saying, ‘That’s not my job’. I couldn’t imagine working anywhere else.”

Known for her positive attitude, Shelley is the home’s Employee of the Month for November 2021.

Speaking on behalf of the home, Cook Ruth Stevenson says, “Shelley is a good worker. She’s reliable and patient with new staff. She’s a valued member of our team.”

Shelley appreciates the feedback and admits her coworkers mean a lot to her.

“It’s nice to enjoy your job,” she says.

Asked about her future dreams and goals, she replies with a laugh, “I just want to be happy. I’ll be a lifer here.”

When she’s not at work, Shelley can be found for five months of the year at her trailer in Lyndhurst where she enjoys camping, bonfires and fishing with her three children and grandchild.

Asked to describe herself, she uses words such as shy, hardworking and trustworthy.

“I think I’m fun to be around,” she adds, jokingly.

Questions for Shelley

If you could have any superpower, what would it be?

“I’d love to have the power to heal. It breaks my heart to see people in pain or suffering.”

If you could rule the world, what would you do on day one?

“I’d end this pandemic.”

If you weren’t at your current job, what would you be doing?

“I’d be camping or spending time with family and friends.”

Carveth Care Centre is grateful for the good work of Shelley Hartley. To learn more about living or working in our home, please call 613-382-4752.