Jenna Schneider didn’t set out to build a career in senior living. She started working at Atria as a teenager and now supports teams across multiple communities. Recently named a runner-up for Argentum’s Passion and Purpose Award, her story shows what’s possible when your work shapes real connections every day.
A lot of people ask the same things when they job search. Will this job matter? Can I build a future here? Will someone help me learn?
Those are real concerns. It’s easy to find a job. It’s harder to find one that feels like it’s worth your time.
Working in senior living means helping residents stay active, connected and engaged each day.
Jenna Schneider’s story helps answer those questions.
A first job that changed everything
Jenna was only 16 when she walked through the doors of Atria Bethlehem for the first time – not yet knowing that a part-time job as a server would spark a lifelong calling. From her very first shifts, she discovered something rare: a workplace where every conversation carried weight, where the people she served had rich stories and wisdom earned over decades of living.
Those early experiences stayed with her. She went on to study recreational therapy in college, then came back to Atria to build a career. She stepped into an Engage Life Director role, where she led programs that helped residents stay active and connected.
In this role, she helped plan programs, build connections and create experiences to keep residents active and involved.
Today, she supports teams across multiple Atria communities in the eastern U.S., helping guide activities and events that keep residents engaged.
Her path shows what’s possible. You can start small and build something that matters over time.
Today, that work has earned broader recognition. Jenna was recently named a runner-up for Argentum’s Passion and Purpose Award, which recognizes leaders who create programs that improve daily life and build stronger connections.
Showing up when it matters most
People often ask what sets someone apart in this kind of work. For Jenna, it’s how she shows up for others.
Coworkers say she’s someone who steps in when she’s needed, even if it’s outside her role. That consistency shows up in both everyday moments and high-pressure situations.
Building something that lasts
As Jenna built experience in her role, she began to see what mattered most to residents. Many wanted to give back. They wanted to stay connected, not just within the community but beyond it. She also saw how much energy and joy came from time spent with younger generations.
At the same time, some communities were already building relationships with local schools. As part of her role supporting company-wide programs, Jenna helped bring more structure and support to those efforts, including the School Partnership Program that Atria launched in August 2025.
The goal was simple: Help residents stay connected on a regular basis.
Today, that shows up across communities in lasting connections. In one community, residents visit a preschool to read with students. In another, they exchange letters with middle school students and later meet in person. These aren’t just one-time events. They’re relationships that grow over time.
A leader others count on
As Atria’s National Director of Engage Life Training and Technology, Shannon Wilson has seen many team members over the years. She first met Jenna more than 13 years ago during Hurricane Sandy.
“Not to sound cliché, but I remember meeting her and immediately thinking, ‘This girl is special,’” Shannon said. “She had been awake for well over 24 hours. It was the middle of a hurricane. Everyone else was stressed and exhausted, but Jenna was ready to go help the next resident.”
Jenna stayed calm and focused, even in that moment. When new opportunities came up, she was someone Shannon thought of right away.
Can you really grow in this field?
Jenna’s story also answers a common question about career progress.
She started in an entry-level role and kept learning. Over time, she took on more responsibility and moved into leadership. Now, she helps guide teams and supports programs across many communities.
That kind of progress doesn’t happen overnight, but it can happen when you’re in the right place and willing to keep learning.
What this kind of work gives you
Most people want more than a paycheck. They want their work to count for something.
In senior living, your work can change someone’s day in simple ways, such as:
- Helping someone feel less alone through conversation
- Turning shared activities into new friendships
- Creating moments residents look forward to
Those moments are what make the work feel worth it.
Is this the right path for you?
This kind of work can be a good fit if you:
- Enjoy being around people
- Want to make a real impact
- Like helping others feel connected
You don’t need to have everything planned out. Jenna didn’t when she started. She showed up, stayed open and kept learning.
Explore careers at Atria
If you’re looking for a job with purpose, this could be your next step.
Find roles at Atria where you can learn, build experience and make a difference.