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Staff of Clara Welch Thanksgiving Home, 48 Grove Street, Cooperstown New York
Our Staff

Meet Our Compassionate Team

Get to know the compassionate and dedicated staff members who form the heart of Clara Welch Thanksgiving Home. Our team of professionals is committed to ensuring the well-being and comfort of our residents, providing personalized care and support.
Melissa Vilacky Clara Welch Thanksgiving Home, 48 Grove Street, Cooperstown New York

Melissa Vilacky, RN

Administrator

I am a registered nurse of 29 years living and working in the local community and have always had a passion for working with older adults.  I feel it is a once in a lifetime opportunity to work for an organization that has a longstanding history of excellence.  
Laurie Butts, RDN at Clara Welch Thanksgiving Home, 48 Grove Street, Cooperstown New York

Laurie Butts, RDN

Dining Services Manager

At The Clara Welch Thanksgiving Home, we're more than a care facility; we're a family. With over two decades of experience as a Registered Dietitian and currently serving as the Dining Services Manager, I'm proud of the atmosphere we've cultivated where residents are embraced with warmth and care from day one. Here, food isn't just sustenance; it's a conduit for community, with every dish crafted by our culinary staff with the finest ingredients and personalized meal plans tailored to our residents' needs.
Sandra Barry at Clara Welch Thanksgiving Home, 48 Grove Street, Cooperstown New York

Sandra Barry

Activities Director

The most meaningful activity within my role as an Activity Director is being able to bring my art background to the Residents, whether it be a painting class, a flower arranging activity, card making or simply, a fun craft to enrich the lives of our Residents.

Frank Miller at Clara Welch Thanksgiving Home, 48 Grove Street, Cooperstown New York

Frank Miller

Facilities Manager

I am a Cooperstown native that found my way to the Home 17 years ago as the Facilities manager, a non-typical position which supports and encourages resident interactions. I have over 25 years of facilities experience. The Home's unique qualities have allowed my family to be part of my work. My wife and children were always welcome.
Betty Thompson of Clara Welch Thanksgiving Home, 48 Grove Street, Cooperstown New York

Betty Thompson

Administrative Assistant

What is most meaningful about my role is the privilege of getting to know the residents and their families of our community as my second family.  I'm a team player, dedicated, honest and have genuine and concern about the residents and fellow coworkers.

Nicole Okarski, RN of Clara Welch Thanksgiving Home, 48 Grove Street, Cooperstown New York

Nicole Okarski, LPN

Personal Care Manager

The most meaningful aspect of my role as a personal care manager is knowing that I have a direct and positive impact on the lives of our residents. It is really rewarding to ensure that they receive the highest quality care. I gain an immense amount of satisfaction from leading and guiding our caregivers as well as encouraging a collaborative environment that inspires everyone to provide outstanding care. Having the ability to establish reliable and trustworthy relationships with residents and their families is extremely fulfilling.