Celebrating Activity Professionals Week: Making Meaningful Moments Through Engagement and Joy
As part of National Activity Professionals Week, we are proud to highlight the dedicated individuals who bring connection, creativity, and joy to residents in long-term care communities. This week, we’re spotlighting five activity professionals around the state.
Amy Blackwood, Ridgeview Health Services
Amy Blackwood’s journey into the field began while she was working as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Her administrator noticed the strong connections she built with residents and encouraged her to consider a role in activities.
“I jumped at the opportunity,” Amy shared. “Making residents smile, laugh, and giving them purpose is the best thing in the world.”
For Amy, the most rewarding part of being an activity professional is seeing residents find pleasure in everyday moments. “Being able to be part of that is what I enjoy most,” she said.
One program she is especially proud of is Distant Destinations, a creative activity that allows residents to travel the world without leaving the facility. The activity area is transformed into different countries or famous locations, complete with cultural experiences, food, and landmarks. “They really love it,” Amy said. “It’s a fun way to explore new places and experience different cultures together.”
When it comes to popular activities, Arts and Crafts are a clear favorite. Residents enjoy creating artwork and friendly competition to see who is the most creative. Many projects are done on large canvases, which are displayed in the activity office to showcase residents’ talents.
Amy believes resident engagement starts with giving residents a voice. Each month, she hosts an Activity Meeting where residents can share ideas, suggest new activities, and help shape the calendar. “Letting residents have input keeps them engaged and connected—not just to staff, but to each other,” she explained.
Amy also hopes people better understand the true role of activity professionals in long-term care. “We support residents’ mental well-being, staff morale, and spend countless hours charting, researching, planning, and implementing activities for both residents and staff.”
In closing, Amy shared her love for her work and community. “I love my job and I love our facility. It’s home to me, and I can’t imagine being anywhere else. Our residents make my day every day, and our staff goes above and beyond to help keep them engaged.”
Thank you, Amy!
