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.
From skilled healthcare professionals to caring support staff, each member plays a crucial role in creating a warm and welcoming environment. Learn more about our staff's qualifications, expertise, and commitment to excellence, as they strive to make a positive difference in the lives of seniors every day.
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.
As the Administrator of our elegant and gracious Home, I have the unique and rewarding opportunity to form a special bond with residents, families, and friends, and provide an environment where residents live a fulfilled, dignified, and meaningful life as they age. We cherish our residents and value their experiences, wisdom, and contributions as they continue their lives with dignity and meaning. It is truly an honor and a privilege to serve our residents, families, and dedicated staff who are committed to the values we hold and our continued success.
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.
Behind every meal and every smile is a dedicated team highly trained in food safety and sanitation services, committed to ensuring an exceptional dining experience for our residents. What sets us apart is that we extend our family table to residents, inviting loved ones to join us in creating cherished memories over wholesome, nutritionally balanced meals. At The Clara Welch Thanksgiving Home, we're on a mission to nourish souls, one meal at a time, and we invite everyone to join our family table.
Maureen Davidson, OTR/L
Activities Director
A a Licensed Occupational Therapist, Veteran and former Special Education Teacher, I bring a unique combination of skills and experience to my role as Activity Director. Each day, I enjoy creating meaningful, resident-centered activities that are fun, inclusive and accessible to everyone.
My love of working with older adults likely stem from being raised by my grandparents. My grandmother lived to be 104 and was a wonderful example of a life will-lived. Her positive influence continues to inspire me to my work and in the way I connect with residents. My goal is to help seniors enjoy purposeful, joyful lives filled with dignity and grace. I truley enjoy finding ways to connect with each resident and brighten their day.
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.
My children would come to work with me on days off and during vacations, spending time with me and the residents. Allowing my children to come to work was beneficial for them and the residents and I am very proud of the adults they have turned into. I look forward to building relationships with current and future residents and their families.
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.
My favorite thing about working for the Clara Welch Thanksgiving Home is the opportunity to assist each and every one I come in contact with, whether it be an employee, a resident or families who visit and helping them in even the smallest way to make their life more enjoyable. I am proud to be working for such a pristine facility with such an amazing staff.
Nicole Okarski, LPN, BSHA
Personal Care Manager
I have spent many years working in healthcare and have always enjoyed caring for others. As the Personal Care Manager, getting to know our residents and making sure they are treated with kindness and respect is important to me. I enjoy supporting our staff and seeing the relationships they develop with our residents.
My most favorite thing about working at The Clara Welch Thanksgiving Home that it is a gorgeous facility that has deep and respected roots in the community which is rich in history. I am proud to be an employee of such a wonderful place!