Saying "Goodbye" to Jim

At the last meeting of our Residents' Association we said  "Goodbye" to Jim, our IT person who has been with Kendal at Granville beginning back in the days when it was being built.  At first he was someone who seemed able to do many things well.  It quickly became apparent he would be an asset and fortunately for all of us he agreed to take on the responsibility of an Information Tech.  As each one of us has moved in he has helped us get our televisions set up and operating properly and if we had computers he has helped us with them as well.  When we got new ones, he has provided guidance and assistance  through all of the hazards associated with such an undertaking

I particularly got to know and work with Jim because not very long after I came here Jim brought together those of us who as computer users were interested in exploring ways we could help each other.  One of the things that grew out of that was I took on the task of teaching a class for beginners.  Jim helped me to use the computers available in our staff training room for our classes.  At one point there were so many students that I had to divide them into two sections.  Jim was always on hand when any problems occurred and lent his support to me when I had questions or needed advice.

It also became apparent that it would be helpful if we had available a dedicated computer work station which could be used for teaching one on one.  In addition it would be a useful tool for the treasurer of the Association. 

Fortunately two of our residents responded positively to my plea at one of our early Residents' Association meetings.  They provided the funds for not only a computer but all of the accessories needed to set up  a complete work station.  Jim was of inestimable help in getting it all together and helping to keep it maintained.

In 2009 I had serious surgery to remove a large tumor from my chest and had to give up teaching the classes.  However, upon recovery I was on call for help with the work station.

In his farewell words to us Jim said something which I think portrays a great deal about the atmosphere here at Kendal.
He spoke of the fact that he was here at a time in his life when individuals find themselves involved in looking out for and helping their parents.  He said here at Kendal he has felt as if he had over one hundred fifty parents and in addition with the kind of staff that we have here he has had seventy some brothers and sisters. 

Then at the official farewell party he added this comment about his experience here, "It's been the best job of my career."   Jim thus confirmed Kendal's belief that a Kendal community should not only be a good place to live but also to work. 

We are grateful that Jim has been with us meeting one challenge after another as we started and grew together through everything from the frustrations caused by cable companies and four day power failures to the humdrum constantly recurring problems presented by working in a field which changes faster that one can change ones clothes.

I might add that Jim is just one of many such dedicated staff members who helps to make our lives better on a daily basis.