Jessica Desjarlais
Director of Associate Experience
At Watercrest, we believe in rewarding outstanding work, promoting from within, and building long-term relationships. Our culture inspires associates to recognize and celebrate one another’s gifts through service. Whether experienced or new to Senior Living, we provide in-depth training preparing each associate to make a real-life difference. Our in-house programs pave the way for associates to advance through our Career Development curriculum, and for college students to explore their Senior Living interests in our Internship program.
Watercrest associates answer a calling to serve our cherished residents and their families every day, and we are committed to continuously investing in our families of servants’ hearts.
We believe our associates deserve a competitive wage and comprehensive benefits options including health, dental, and vision, voluntary life insurance and company-paid life insurance, long-term and short-term disability, supplemental plans, 401k with employer match, paid time off, tuition reimbursement program, volunteer paid time off and associate referral program.
Our growth is your opportunity. Career Development is designed to assist associates in advancing their careers within the Senior Living industry.
Congratulations, Katrina Fields – October Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Fredericksburg!
Katrina proudly wears her core value Empathy daily in the community. Katrina states, “I genuinely care about how others feel and always try to understand what someone else may be going through. I believe in putting myself in another person’s shoes and treating everyone with kindness, compassion, patience, and respect. Being considerate, taking the time to listen, showing empathy, and making others feel valued are all things that are incredibly important to me.
I believe this should extend beyond our residents and include the entire Watercrest team as well. Every person deserves to feel appreciated, supported, respected, and valued. Whether it’s a resident, a family member, or a fellow team member, I want people to know that they matter, that they are heard, and that someone genuinely cares. ”
It is WE who thank YOU, Katrina !
Her director says, “Katrina’s bright smile and warm, welcoming demeanor are often what people first experience when they walk through the doors of Watercrest Fredericksburg. She has a natural ability to make others feel comfortable, welcomed, and valued. She demonstrates empathy every day through the genuine care and compassion she shows our residents, whether she is helping someone find their room, guiding them to the elevator, or simply taking a moment to listen to their concerns.
Her kindness and willingness to help do not go unnoticed. Family members know Katrina by name and often greet her with hugs as a way of showing their appreciation for everything she does. Those connections speak volumes about the impact she has on others. Katrina doesn’t just help people; she makes them feel seen, heard, and cared for. Empathy is truly what defines Katrina, and she is a wonderful example of the warmth and compassion we strive to share at Watercrest Fredericksburg!”
Congratulations, Debbie Marie – October Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Palm Beach Gardens!
Debbie proudly wears her core value Good Listener daily in the community. Debbie states, “As a Concierge, I take the time to listen and understand each person’s needs, connect them with the right people and resources, and make sure nothing falls through the cracks. I believe in providing thoughtful, personalized support all with a reassuring smile.
In my free time, I love turning everyday photos into meaningful keepsakes through scrapbooking. I also enjoy teaching others how to preserve and celebrate their memories in creative ways, rather than letting those special moments get lost in a camera roll.
It’s more than just a hobby; it’s something I’m passionate about and love sharing with others!”
It is WE who thank YOU, Debbie!
Her director says, “Your dedication, reliability, and willingness to always step up and help wherever needed do not go unnoticed. You consistently go above and beyond, whether it’s picking up extra shifts, supporting your coworkers, or making sure our guests feel welcomed and taken care of at the front desk.
Your positive attitude, teamwork, and commitment make a difference every day. We are truly grateful to have you as part of our team. Thank you for all that you do, and congratulations on this well-deserved recognition!”
Congratulations, Amber Williams – October Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Winter Park!
Amber proudly wears her core value Energetic daily in the community. Amber states, “I chose my core value because I live my job. I love working with others. I’m very motivated and determined.”
It is WE who thank YOU, Amber!
Her director says, “Amber has really been a great asset since she was hired. Amber always jumps in to help wherever needed. Residents always have great things to say about Amber.”
Congratulations, Amy Kudo – October Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Richmond!
Amy proudly wears her core value Integrity daily in the community. Amy states, “Integrity is the secret ingredient in every meal I serve. Our residents deserve the best in every bit, every beautiful plate, and I do that with integrity.”
It is WE who thank YOU, Amy!
Her director says, “Amy brings integrity, dedication and pride to the kitchen every day. Her hard work and positive attitude are valuable to our team.”
Congratulations, Kelsey Baumgardner – October Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Spanish Springs!
Kelsey proudly wears her core value Accountability daily in the community. Kelsey states, “I chose my core value because I enjoy working with people and having the residents feel like my family. I love serving seniors because they need help and one day I may need the same kind of help.”
It is WE who thank YOU, Kelsey !
Her director says, “Kelsey shows many of our six principles of service each day. She is a great asset to the Watercrest team. Kelsey is friendly and respectful to everyone every day. She always puts the residents’ needs above her own.”
Congratulations, Grace Marie Bonilla Pena – October Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Buena Vista!
Grace proudly wears her core value Responsibility daily in the community. Grace states, “I chose responsibility as my core value because I consider myself a responsible person at work and in my day-to-day.”
It is WE who thank YOU, Grace!
Her director says, “Grace is truly deserving of this recognition. She consistently demonstrates what it means to be a dedicated, dependable, and compassionate team member. She comes to work each day with a positive attitude, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to go above and beyond, not only for our residents but also for her fellow associates. She takes pride in her work, leads by example through her professionalism, and is always willing to step in wherever she is needed. What makes Grace especially special is her genuine and caring nature. She brings so much more than great service to our dining team; she brings heart. We are incredibly fortunate to have her, and I couldn’t be happier to see her recognized as Server Leader of the Month!”
Whether a career in Senior Living has always been your calling or you’re still exploring the idea, Watercrest is a great place to learn about Senior Living.
