Tag: staff appreciation week
This Spring, we celebrated the shared efforts that help our GEF communities thrive. National Volunteer Week (April 19 to 25) and GEF Staff Appreciation Week (May 3 to 9) gave us an opportunity to recognize the dedication and commitment of the staff and volunteers who support seniors across GEF communities every day.
The theme of Pride and Shared Responsibility continues to reflect the way our staff and volunteers show up for one another and for the seniors we serve. Whether stepping in to help when it is needed or working together to create welcoming environments, their shared responsibility ensures our communities remain supportive, respectful, and well cared for. This season has been a time to pause, reflect, take pride, and celebrate the meaningful contributions that strengthen our communities.
All of this comes back to our Vision of creating vibrant, affordable communities for seniors. Guided by our Mission to provide well-maintained housing where people feel safe, can live with dignity, and thrive – our work is grounded in our shared values, strengthening our communities, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of the people who call them home.
Our staff and volunteers’ dedication, coordination, and commitment to quality service make a meaningful difference across our communities.
Our Collective Impact
Across our 43 GEF communities, over 500 staff support nearly 4,000 seniors.
Our volunteer program also continues to grow:
- 44 volunteers and 944 hours in 2023
- 152 volunteers and 4,173 hours in 2024
- 247 volunteers and 7,010 hours in 2025
Staff provide daily support and are the friendly, familiar faces our seniors see regularly. Volunteers spark engagement and create new opportunities in our buildings by participating in programs and sharing quality time with residents and tenants. Through their actions, both openly and behind the scenes, staff and volunteers help create communities where people feel respected and valued.
Our team of staff and volunteers create warm, caring interactions that make seniors feel understood and included.
Volunteer Week Highlights
During National Volunteer Week, we shared a series of videos highlighting the impact volunteers make across our communities. Tap each video below to watch.
🎥 Meet Leslie and Bear – bringing smiles and connection through Pet Therapy
🎥 Meet Miral – adding a splash of colour and creativity to our communities
🎥 Meet Linda – a dedicated volunteer who gives back in so many ways
🎥 Meet Cindy – a corporate volunteer from Old Navy
🎥 Discover what staff and seniors appreciate most about our volunteers.
Staff Appreciation Week
In honour of Staff Appreciation Week, residents and tenants shared what they value most in our GEF staff.
🎥 Hear heartfelt messages from seniors about what our staff means to them.
Thank You
GEF staff and volunteers support one another – showing up with teamwork, positivity, and a willingness to help.
To every staff member and every volunteer, thank you. ❤️
Your energy, pride, and commitment strengthen our communities every day, and we are truly grateful for all that you do.
For those looking for opportunities to join our team – be part of something that matters!
May is a time to appreciate all of the wonderful people who make GEF a welcoming and enriching community for all! Staff Appreciation Week (May 25 to 31) and National Volunteer Week (April 27 to May 3) are opportunities to celebrate our 500+ staff and 150 volunteers. Together, they support our mission to provide affordable, well-maintained, and secure buildings, where our clients can live with dignity and thrive in their communities.
Our staff and volunteers have a shared dedication to uplifting seniors and fostering a supportive, respectful community.
Celebrate the Journey
We are on a journey to create vibrant, affordable communities for seniors. Each step we’ve taken, every challenge we’ve overcome, and all the successes we’ve achieved have been possible because of the energy and creativity of our volunteers and the dedication, hard work, and passion of our staff. Together, they deliver quality services and create meaningful connections that strengthen our communities.
Beyond responsibilities, our teams’ commitment to small gestures – from positive affirmations to meaningful connections – creates a lasting impact.
Living Our Values
Through the remarkable contributions they make to our collective journey, staff and volunteers demonstrate our values:
- Put people at the centre of everything we do
- Show respect and kindness in every interaction
- Foster equity, diversity, and inclusion
- Be accountable and responsible
- Uphold trust, integrity and fairness
Their commitment to quality experiences and well-being is reflected in positive resident feedback and the strong connections formed.
Through dedication and teamwork, they ensure a positive resident experience, where tenants feel heard, valued, and actively engaged.
Many Thanks
To our staff – thank you for all that you do! Our seniors say it best – and from the heart! They appreciate all the ways you make a difference.
👉 Click here for a message from our seniors.
To our volunteers – thank you! Your skills and passion enrich programs through diverse activities and new opportunities.
👉 Click here for highlights from National Volunteer Week.
Join Us
Join our team – work with us or volunteer – and help create thriving communities where everyone feels valued and supported!