OCH recognizes staff during National Activity Professionals Awareness Week

Photos courtesy of Scott Robinson: Adrienne Belson, center, activities director and MDS coordinator at Orleans Community Health, sits with residents of the North Wing during a bake sale she helped organize last summer. Belson was one of three North Wing employees recognized during National Activity Professionals Awareness Week.

MEDINA – Orleans Community Health observed National Activity Professionals Week by celebrating the dedicated activity professionals serving residents in the North Wing, along with the community partners who support individuals in long-term care, assisted living and memory care.

Organized by the National Association of Activity Professionals, National Activity Professionals Week is celebrated Jan. 26-30, focusing on the theme “Beyond the Ordinary.” The week recognizes staff who foster independence and joy through meaningful, person-centered engagement, going above and beyond to support cognitive and physical health.

Activities Assistant Angel Mackey helps a North Wing resident paint a pumpkin during a special fall activity. Mackey was another employee who received recognition at OCH this week.

This national observance honors professionals whose creativity, compassion and commitment enhance residents’ emotional, social, cognitive and physical well-being, according to Scott Robinson, director of Marketing at OCH.

“At Orleans Community Health, activity professionals play a vital role in promoting connection, dignity and purpose, ensuring residents continue to live full and meaningful lives,” Robinson said.

Among those recognized are Adrienne Belson, activities director and MDS coordinator; Anna Lewis, activities leader; and Angel Mackey, activities assistant.

Belson, a Lyndonville resident, has served Orleans Community Health for 19 years. She has dedicated her career to the elderly population and emphasizes that activities extend far beyond recreation. Her team builds trusted relationships, provides advocacy, supports residents through life transitions and creates opportunities for continued engagement within the community.

Lewis joined OCH in 2020 and celebrates five years of service this year. Known for her creativity and enthusiasm, Lewis brings versatility to each day and focuses on learning residents’ life stories to better support and individualized care. She encourages community involvement, noting that residents thrive when volunteers share their time and talent.

Angel Mackey, Activities Assistant, is also being highlighted for her compassionate approach. After beginning her career at Medina Memorial Hospital in the dietary department, Mackey transitioned into activities, where she enjoys building meaningful connections with residents. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in social work and remains deeply committed to making a positive impact.

Orleans Community Health also expressed gratitude to the broader community for its continued support, including fundraising efforts which helped provide transportation for residents’ outings. These experiences allow residents to reconnect with familiar places, memories and traditions, often creating powerful moments of recognition and joy, Robinson said.

“Activity professionals bring life, purpose and connection into each day,” Robinson said. “Their dedication reminds us that quality of life matters at every stage.”

Orleans Community Health extends sincere appreciation to its Activities Department, North Wing care teams, volunteers, families and community partners whose compassion and collaboration continue to enrich the lives of its residents.

Anna Lewis, activities leader at OCH, also recognized during National Activity Professionals Awareness Week. She is shown here with two North Wing residents on a field trip to the lake.