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.

Tawanda Sharp, Arlington Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center

Tawanda Sharp has nearly 25 years serving in long-term care, and more than 22 years in activities. Her journey into the profession was guided by her love for interacting with residents and being actively involved in their care. “What led me to becoming an activity professional is my passion for working with senior citizens and, most importantly, having fun with them,” she shared.

For her, the most rewarding part of the role is the strong relationships she builds with residents. “What I enjoy most is the rapport I have with my residents. My role is to brighten their day, but most often, they brighten mine,” she said.

One program she is especially proud of is the facility’s monthly outings, which give residents something to look forward to and help them stay connected to the community. These outings often include scenic bus rides and special treats, and importantly, they are inclusive of residents from the Cognitive Care Unit, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to participate and enjoy new experiences.

When it comes to favorite activities, Bingo continues to be a resident favorite—but with a creative twist. In addition to traditional Bingo, residents enjoy the Bingo Store, where they earn “Bingo Bucks” for winning games. These bucks can be saved and used to purchase items from the store, adding an extra layer of excitement and motivation.

Keeping residents engaged, she says, starts with listening. “I give residents the opportunity to have input in their activity calendar. Their ideas help me tailor activities to what they’ve expressed interest in doing,” she explained. This collaborative approach helps boost participation and ensures activities reflect what residents truly enjoy.

She believes the role of an activity professional is often misunderstood. “Activity professionals are the heart of the facility,” she said. “We have the opportunity to build relationships with all residents.”

Thank you, Tawanda!