LATHAM PROFILES: Christine MacDonald
LATHAM PROFILES:
Christine MacDonald
Residential House Manager
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Walking into the house I manage every morning and getting warm, smiley greetings from the clients. If they’re happy, I’m happy!
Describe a few of your responsibilities and how you spend much of your time.
A lot of my day is spent scheduling and making sure the clients get where they need to be. They are my main concern, and I want them to lead the most meaningful lives possible, and keep them engaged in activities.
What skills are most important for professionals who work with individuals with PWS or other complex special needs?
Patience, calmness, and flexibility.
What are the most important lessons you attempt to teach new staff?
A lot of our clients have led some really challenging lives before coming to Latham. Always, always, always take the time to build a relationship with a client, even if it means finding that one connection to start a conversation.
What do you love about working with individuals with PWS or other complex special needs?
I enjoy laughing just as much as my clients enjoy laughing. Every day we find new ways to be silly and help bring cheer to our Latham community!
Has this job taught you anything about yourself?
Absolutely! This job taught me to be selfless and increasingly patient. I realized I wanted to make Latham my career. I started at Latham Centers almost 6 years ago as a residential counselor in the children’s program and currently manage a house in the adult program.
How do you spend your time when you’re not working at Latham?
I enjoy reading, going to the beach, playing trivia, going to the movies, playing with my dog, and spending time with family and friends.
What advice would you give to someone contemplating a career at Latham Centers?
You will never know unless you try. You have to be willing to give 100% every day.
Interested in joining our team? Check out our latest job postings HERE!
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