Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, And Belonging Efforts Help Residents Thrive at Greenspring

At Greenspring, an Erickson Senior Living community in Springfield, Va., ensuring that each resident and staff member is accepted and appreciated for who they are is an integral part of the community's mission to help people live better lives.

Recently, the Tribune sat down with Dr. Karyn Flannagan, Greenspring's associate executive director, to discuss the community's robust diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging efforts. A clinical psychologist for more than 20 years, Flannagan previously served as the senior director of diversity and inclusion for the Norvant Health UVA System. 

Q: How would you describe the commitment Greenspring has made to diversity?

A: Diversity is a core value at Greenspring and at all Erickson Senior Living communities. At Greenspring, we are deeply and personally committed to seeking out diversity, celebrating not only the unique characteristics of individuals, but ensuring that each person feels welcome and included. 

For retirees who choose to move to Greenspring, we hope that this community becomes their home for life. To that end, we strive to foster a safe environment that respects and welcomes them so that they are comfortable being their authentic self. 

To achieve these goals, our management team works with the resident-run diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) committee and the staff DEIB committee. Together, we develop programs and events that celebrate the cultural backgrounds represented by all community members. 

Q: Greenspring celebrated diversity in 2024 in a lot of different ways. What were some of them?

A: In January, we recognized Martin Luther King, Jr. Day with acts of service throughout the community. We also expanded that reach to the local community, serving at a Washington, D.C., food pantry. For Black History Month, we partnered with our Pastoral Ministries team to host an educational series in our chapel.

In June, our community celebrated Pride Month. Two resident volunteers chose to speak about their own experiences in the Pride community and share how everyone can be Pride advocates and supporters. Greenspring partnered with Ashby Ponds, the Erickson Senior Living community in Ashburn, Va., inviting their residents and staff members to our celebration. It was a wonderful day, focused on coming together as a greater community.

For Veterans Day, we created a video that included both staff members and residents, highlighting their years of service and what the day means to them personally. 

Q: In what ways does Greenspring foster inclusion and belonging?                                                                                                                               

A: Often, when we think of diversity and inclusion, we think of race, gender, ethnicity, and/or sexual orientation. However, it's important that we also address the inclusion of our residents in continuing care. At Greenspring, we make sure to include residents who need higher care so they are able to thrive and live their best lives in a vibrant community. As a result, we plan our events and celebrations in a way that enables everyone access and the ability to participate. 

For instance, during our Holi celebration this past spring, we created handprint canvases, where residents could choose a color and add their handprint. Each clubhouse, as well as our continuing care neighborhood, displayed the canvases for all to see.

Last year, we included residents as part of our staff member spirit week, most notably in our talent show. There is nothing more beautiful than seeing staff members showcase their unique skills with residents. Our commitment to harmonious living is central in all that we do. It's ensuring that everyone feels they belong. 

Q: What are some of the community's DEIB goals for 2025?

A: At Greenspring, we are constantly driven to be better tomorrow than we are today. We have a collaborative perspective, partnering with residents to get their feedback regarding new initiatives and programs.

One of our goals for 2025 is to support residents with hearing impairments by adding hearing technology in our chapel. We just launched a cancer support group, and we hope to start a support group for people with Parkinson's. We are also working on programs to help residents requiring additional care thrive while providing their caregivers with respite when they need it. 

We think that this will be our best year yet, especially when it comes to ensuring that our residents and staff members feel that they belong in our community. We will continue to foster authentic connections, respect our differences, and promote and encourage a culture of understanding.

To learn more about affordable, independent senior living at Greenspring, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and so much more.