WEST CHESTER, PA — Barclay Friends, a prominent senior living community in Chester County, has recently seen the conclusion of an impactful nine-month learning stint by a young local, Elijah Tapp. The 20-year-old student actively participated in Barclay’s Administrator-in-Training (AIT) program, making notable strides in his career in the senior living sector while enriching the lives of the community’s elderly residents.
The blossoming need for skilled leaders in the aging services sector is an undeniable reality as the baby boomer generation marches into retirement. It’s estimated that by 2030, over a quarter of Pennsylvania’s population will be over 60, a stark increase of nearly 28 percent since 2012, as per the data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Understandably, programs like the Barclay Friends’ AIT are becoming increasingly crucial to build a robust pipeline for future leaders in this field.
According to Linda Sterthous, the Chief Executive Officer of Barclay Friends, the advent of their pioneering paid AIT program aims to debunk the common misconception of senior living as an unpopular career choice. “We are keen to change the paradigm and draw younger generations towards the fulfillment of working with older adults,” Sterthous explained.
Elijah Tapp, a keen learner and a compassionate individual, did not initially envision a career in senior living. “I began my college education focusing on political science, but my interest in healthcare spending led me down a different path,” he disclosed. “This detour sparked my curiosity in health policy and administration and fired up a desire in me to effect meaningful change in people’s lives.”
Motivated by the prospect of gaining practical experience, Tapp’s quest for a paid AIT experience finally led him to Barclay Friends. The institute’s strong alignment with Quaker values struck a chord with the young college student, carving itself the perfect nurturing ground for his career. “The values of active listening, seeking everyone’s feedback, and a constant vigilance for improvement have been instilled in me during my tenure here.”
Tapp’s tenure at Barclay Friends exposed him to multiple facets of the senior living world, ranging from healthcare, culinary, and social services, to life enrichment programs. His hands-on involvement in important tasks like regulatory compliance, resident assessment, and strategic planning provided him with a holistic understanding of the sector.
Tapp’s invaluable experience at AIT has readied him to take on the Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) licensing exam, a significant milestone on his career path. With a clear vision to obtain his NHA license across Pennsylvania and Illinois by 2024, Tapp is on the fast track to making long-lasting contributions to the world of senior living.
Barclay Friends in West Chester, Pennsylvania, is a trusted senior living community with a rich 100-year history. Rooted in Quaker Values, Barclay Friends is dedicated to offering compassionate care for older adults as they navigate aging. Explore more about the Barclay Friends AIT Program on their official website.
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