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, Shanrica Lumley – July Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Palm Beach Gardens!
Shanrica proudly wears her core value “Loyalty” daily in the community. Shanrica states “I chose Loyalty because I give my all in everything I do and always continuing to grow.”
It is WE who thank YOU, Shanrica!
Her director says, “Shanrica is an asset addition to our team! She is dedicated and committed to learning the necessary skills to improve the experience for the residents and her team.”
Congratulations, Dionsha Nelams – July Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Buena Vista!
Dionsha proudly wears her core value “Achieve” daily in the community. Dionsha states “I chose achieve as my core value because I believe in setting high standards and striving to exceed them. Achieving goals not only brings personal growth, but also inspires those around me to reach their fullest potential.”
It is WE who thank YOU, Dionsha!
Her director says, “Dionsha consistently demonstrates a high level of professionalism and dedication in her role. She always puts the residents’ needs first and goes above and beyond to ensure they receive the best possible experience. Her willingness to assist wherever needed makes her an essential asset to our team. We are proud to recognize her as Associate of the Month for her outstanding contributions.”
Congratulations, Genoveva Chavez – July Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest SLW!
Gen proudly wears her core value “Loyalty” daily in the community. Gen states “Watercrest allows me to blend my passion with my profession, creating a sense of purpose that goes beyond the daily task. It’s not just what I do but who I get to be while doing it and that is what I find most rewarding.”
It is WE who thank YOU, Gen!
Her director says, “Gen goes above and beyond for all of her residents. She knew Ms. Charlotte loves rainbows so she bought her an Aurora Borealis light show for her apartment so she would have something beautiful to look at while she was going to sleep. Its the people who make a difference every day!”
Congratulations, Elijah Atherton – July Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Richmond!
Elijah proudly wears his core value “Loving” daily in the community. Elijah states “I chose loving as my core value and have it shine through in the way I serve the residents. My actions reflect deep compassion, respect, and genuine care for others. Whether I’m offering a helping hand, listening patiently to stories from the past, or simply spending time with those who may feel forgotten, I lead with love. Serving seniors isn’t just a task for me-it’s a way to express my belief that everyone deserves kindness, dignity, and connection, especially those who have given so much throughout their lives. My loving spirit brings comfort and joy to those he serves, making a meaningful difference in their daily lives.”
It is WE who thank YOU, Elijah!
His director says, “Elijah consistently brings a positive attitude to every interaction, creating a warm and welcoming environment for both residents and team members. What sets Elijah apart is his deep sense of compassion-he doesn’t just show up to serve; he truly cares. His core value of loving shines through in the way he listens patiently, offers help without hesitation, and treats every resident with dignity and respect. Elijah leads with his heart, and his presence makes a meaningful difference in the lives of those around him.”
Congratulations, Christina Helms – July Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Winter Park!
Christina proudly wears her core value “Trustworthy” daily in the community. Christina states “I think it is important for the residents to have trust in us to come into their home. I love working with Watercrest because of my coworkers and residents. It’s been a pleasure to work with seniors for 20 years and still counting!”
It is WE who thank YOU, Christina!
Her director says, “Christina always has a smile on her face. She is flexible, steadfast and hard working!”
Congratulations, Wendy – July Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Winter Park!
Wendy proudly wears her core value “Empathy” daily in the community. Wendy states “I chose empathy as my core value because it reflects my deep desire to give back to the residents who, in many ways, shaped the world I grew up in. When I care for them, I feel a sense of pride and responsibility—just as they cared for us in their time, I now have the opportunity to return that care. I truly empathize with the challenges they faced and how they adapted to life during their generation. Growing up, my sister and I would always play nurse, and from a young age, I knew I wanted to care for others. That childhood dream has stayed with me, and it continues to inspire the work I do every day.”
It is WE who thank YOU, Wendy!
Her director says, “Wendy demonstrates genuine compassion and dedication in everything she does. Her empathy is evident in the way she cares for our residents—always with patience, kindness, and respect. She consistently goes above and beyond, and her reliability and positive attitude make her a valued member of our team.”
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.
“The longer I am with Watercrest, the more I realize this is much, much more than a career. This is the place I have been waiting my whole life to be. Here, there is the heart that is missing in most companies.”