Charlie’s Corner: Confronting “the elephant in the room”

Confronting “the elephant in the room.”

The living environment of Community Homes is positive and respectful. Still, as managers of buildings that include residents with different backgrounds and ethnicities, we must be sensitive to potential conflicts that could arise due to background differences and adjustments to living in a group environment. There is always the chance that bullying behavior could manifest itself. However, with a “zero tolerance” policy, the risk of problems related to bullying is kept to a minimum.

Our education as a staff must prepare us to deal with conflict within the resident community. We ensure that rules are in place that are understood by staff and residents alike. We cover this procedure before a new potential resident is accepted.

We are good listeners. Board members and management actively participate in discussions with residents. Problems are identified, and corrections are agreed upon and executed promptly. Residents appreciate these sessions. Open communication is essential to success.

Policies are implemented to reduce opportunities for bullying. Every effort is made to ensure that residents live in a “home-like” atmosphere that is sensitive to their right to privacy.

We ensure that we stay current with the state and other requirements and are compliant with training and reporting requirements.

Be sure to review Charlie’s Corner for more information on our individual Core Values – Truth, Responsibility, Hope, Respect, Compassion, Fairness, and Safety. We follow them to ensure a positive environment for our residents, and a reputation within our industry that is a continuing source of pride.