peopleCare’s leaders connect to purpose and ignite their impact

In early October, peopleCare leaders came together for the first-ever Rise & Ignite Leadership Retreat, a two-day experience that offered them a chance to reconnect, reflect and step fully into their leadership potential.

“Connection is foundational to our culture, and this was an opportunity to connect more deeply with one another, refuel our energy, and recommit to being the best versions of ourselves as we lead with impact,” said Jeremy Zinger, peopleCare’s Vice President, LTC Operations. “Collectively we reflected, learned, and strengthened our shared purpose as leaders at peopleCare with a bright path forward for all of us.”

Held at the Osler Bluff Ski Club, the stunning setting and gorgeous fall weather set the tone for connection and celebration. Leadership teams from across our homes and leadership support office took part in friendly games before toasting to the future of peopleCare at the top of Blue Mountain, reached by ski lift for a breathtaking view. The evening wrapped up with a relaxed, family-style dinner, a chance to unwind, share stories and get to know one another on a deeper level.

Day two focused on growth and intention, guided by renowned facilitator Seth Streeter, who leads transformative retreats around the world and has been featured in Forbes and The Wall Street Journal. With Seth’s help, participants explored how to connect on a different level as one peopleCare team, show up with authenticity and empower themselves and others through their leadership. They also reflected on their values, how they want to lead and live every day and how they and their teams could show up more fully through honesty, sharing and deep listening.

peopleCare’s CFO Iuliana Constantin said she was grateful to be part of this journey with her team and others from across the organization, sharing stories, learning together, and creating memories that remind everyone why we do what we do.

“What an incredible experience connecting with so many inspiring people at our Leadership Retreat. It gave us the space to reflect on the impact we want to make, what truly matters, and how to live and lead with purpose,” said Constantin adding that facilitator Seth reminded everyone that well-being isn’t a luxury, it’s a foundation. “When we fill our own cup, we show up stronger — as leaders, teammates, and human beings,” she added.

Seth’s trademarked Inspired Life Purpose session invited leaders to explore their unique gifts, skills, and passions and how these can come together to create meaningful impact in their homes and communities. The exercise aligned with peopleCare’s visionary strategy and its four pillars of transforming experiences, designing vibrant communities, innovating for tomorrow, and impacting beyond ourselves.

As the retreat drew to a close, leaders gathered around a fire, a symbol of connection, shared purpose and transformation. Each person added a small piece of wood to the flames, while reflecting on a personal strength, a team commitment or an idea they wanted to ignite within the organization. As the flames grew brighter with each contribution, it became a visible reminder of how peopleCare’s collective energy and growth are fueled when everyone brings their best forward.

Zinger invited everyone to pause and take in the moment. “The warmth we’ve felt, the insights we’ve gained and the connections we’ve deepened are sparks meant to keep burning,” he said. “As we leave here, let’s promise to keep showing up for our teams, our residents, our families and ourselves with the same intention and heart we’ve shared around this fire.”

 

Feedback from attendees showed just how powerful the experience was. One leader shared, “It is great to know we work for an organization that cares about its members’ health and wellbeing. And a reminder to share our strengths and encourage each other to continue giving our best to the care of our residents, team members and families.” Another noted, “Rise and Ignite was a retreat that offered so much of the unexpected, watching our teams and our leaders at a new energy level. It was perfect.”

While Rise & Ignite may have ended, the positive impact is being carried back into the homes. Leaders left with fresh tools, shared language, and a deeper sense of empathy and intention to help their teams flourish and carry forward the spirit of the retreat every day throughout peopleCare. As one leader said, “The retreat reconnected me with my why, seeing how my role can make a difference. If I push myself to be my best, that will allow others to be their best and succeed.”