Employee spotlights feature exceptional A.G. Rhodes staff members who are doing great work throughout the organization. June’s spotlight features Kim Greene, a CNA who has worked at A.G. Rhodes’ Atlanta location for more than seven years. Kim was Atlanta’s recent recipient of the Rhodes Perdue CNA of the Year Award.
When asked why Kim was chosen for this month’s employee spotlight, Administrator Kristie Davis said, “Kim is a social butterfly and she’s loved by everyone. She’s always willing to help out and she’s got a way of putting a smile on elders’ and employees’ faces.”
Kim Greene, CNA
From: Atlanta, Georgia
What does your job entail?
While there are many physical tasks, the most important part of my job is to be patient and understanding. You have to listen and take things slow with the residents.
How long have you been working at A.G. Rhodes/working in the long-term care industry?
I’ve been at A.G. Rhodes at least seven years, and in long-term care since 1994 or 1995.
What made you get into this field?
My great-grandmother who raised me—and is 100 years old now—encouraged me to go to job corps in Brunswick, Georgia to learn a trade. I eventually took the nursing assistant course. I ended up connecting with the residents, and it’s just in me. I’m thankful for this career.
What’s the best part about your job?
I get to serve different areas of the building and I get to know everyone. So many people don’t have a job that they can say they like, but I like coming to work. I also like that I get to eat here, I get entertainment, and I get to chill with these people.
What do you want others to know about your job?
To do this job, you have to come with love and with patience. Some people need extra attention and they want to be able to talk to someone and tell them what’s going on.
A few years ago there was a resident who asked me for my help, and I was in a rush to do something else, but I slowed down and helped him. He was so grateful. He passed away the next day and I’m so glad I took the time to help him.
What keeps you going?
What keeps me going is the Lord. I pray about the job, I pray about the people. I’m also thankful to work with the people I work with.
It’s the best thing when people say thank you, and when others appreciate what I do.
What does it take to work in this field?
Be compassionate and understanding. Put yourself in their shoes. Understand what they want, and meet them where they are. Listen to them—you’ll learn a lot.
What do you do when you’re not working?
I’m going to school for nursing at Georgia Piedmont. I’m also an entrepreneur and I sell movies, music and purses.
Do you have advice for someone wanting to get into this field?
My great-grandmother told me, “You get more with sugar than salt,” and “Treat people how you want to be treated.” It’s especially important in this job—care about what you’re doing.
Do you have anything you’d like to add?
I’m just thankful to the Lord.
June 2018