When Tammy Marano joined Atria, she was looking for just a few part-time hours as a housekeeper. She never imagined she’d one day lead the entire hospitality team. Sixteen years later, she’s the face of Stamford Estates in Niagara Falls, Ontario – and her story reminds us of what’s possible when someone brings kindness, dedication and heart to work.
“I always say I have 118 grandparents – not 118 seniors – I take care of,” Tammy says with a smile. “I’m lucky. I’ve got that many people who care about me every day.”
From part-time shifts to running the show
Tammy’s career path is a great example of how we support our employees to learn, grow and try new things. Here’s how she moved forward in her career in senior living:
- Started as a part-time housekeeper, working 10 am to 2 pm
- Became a dining room supervisor for lunch and dinner service
- Picked up shifts as a dishwasher, learning all sides of the kitchen
- Moved into full-time housekeeping, then lead housekeeper
- Helped out as a porter for a few months
- Became Hospitality Director at Anchor Pointe (2015-2019)
- Currently serves as Hospitality Manager at Stamford Estates (since 2019)
“I’ve done pretty much every job,” Tammy laughs. “I’ve been a prep cook, washed dishes on every shift, cleaned apartments, filled in for maintenance and even helped with office work when we were in between general managers.”
Leading with heart
When Tammy was offered the opportunity to take on a leadership role, she hesitated.
“I didn’t know computers, I didn’t have office experience,” she recalls. “But the leadership team at Atria saw something in me.”
Recognizing employees like Tammy is in the DNA of Atria. Here, what matters most is something that can’t be taught.
“Atria can teach you how to do the job,” Tammy says. “But no one can teach heart. And that’s what really counts here.”
More than a job – it’s family
For Tammy, working at Atria isn’t just about tasks and titles – it’s about people. Whether it’s a new resident or a new team member, she knows everyone should feel welcome.
“When someone’s going through something tough, I sit with them, talk with them and stay until they feel better,” she says. “That’s just what we do.”
It’s that sense of belonging that makes Atria feel like home – for everyone.
“They treat me like I’m their daughter or granddaughter,” Tammy says of the residents. “And with our staff, it’s the same – we’ve got each other’s backs. We really are a family here.”
Helping new residents settle in
Tammy knows how tough transitions can be, especially for new residents. That first meal in the dining room can feel intimidating – so she takes extra care to make it easier.
“I try to pair them with someone they’ll enjoy talking to,” she explains. “It makes the transition a lot smoother and helps them make friends faster.”
Tammy’s advice for new team members
“A lot of people come in expecting to feel at home right away,” she says. “But it takes time. You’ve got to trust the process.”
That’s what she tells new staff and residents: “Relax, be yourself and don’t be afraid to ask for help. We’re all in this together.”
Thinking about joining the Atria family?
Tammy’s story shows that you don’t need to have all the answers on day one. If you bring your heart to work and stay open to learning, we’ll help you build a career you can be proud of.
“I love what I do,” Tammy says. “I come in every day ready to put a smile on as many faces as I can.”
Looking for a place where you can grow and make a difference? We’re hiring for roles in housekeeping, dining, maintenance, caregiving and more – and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Explore open positions at Atria and apply today.