If you walk through the halls of Holiday Orchid Terrace in St. Louis, Missouri, chances are you’ll spot Ignacio Correa. With his tool belt and smile, he’s always moving from one important task to the next.
For nearly two decades, Ignacio has been the senior living community’s steady hand. He works behind the scenes to ensure everything functions just right. And now, his dedication has been recognized in a big way: Ignacio is the proud recipient of Atria’s Exceptional Service Award.
Humility and gratitude in the face of recognition
“I’m not the type of person that seeks to be in the spotlight,” Ignacio says. “I tend to be on the quiet side. But it was nice to learn that my manager had nominated me. She thinks I’m a good guy, I guess,” he chuckles.
His humility is just one of the many reasons so many people at Orchid Terrace were thrilled to see him honored. Ignacio isn’t just good at what he does – he’s someone who cares deeply about the community he serves.
Much more than maintenance
“On a normal day, you come in the morning and check your work orders to see what needs to be done,” he says. “If any maintenance emergencies happen, I handle those quickly, too – an overflowing sink or something.”
But Ignacio’s job is about more than just maintenance. He doesn’t just pass residents in the hallway – he stops, chats and forms lasting connections.
After 19 years, Ignacio knows every apartment – and everyone who lives in them.
“I get to spend time with residents all day long,” Ignacio adds. “One resident would repeatedly flag me down between work orders whenever she had issues with her television,” he laughs. “I would always take a quick break and help her fix it.”
These everyday moments are what make Ignacio’s position so meaningful, both to him and the residents. “There’s one resident I see most mornings when I come in. We chat for a few minutes before I start work – it’s a really nice way to start my day.”
Ignacio’s exceptional work continues
For Ignacio, helping people isn’t just part of the job – it’s the reason for it. “I’ve always loved this kind of work. And here, I get to come in, see the residents, and help them.”
At 66 years old, Ignacio could be thinking about slowing down. But he says he’s not interested in that. “My wife asks me when I’m going to retire. I always say, ‘Well, one of these days. But not today.’”
The residents and staff at Holiday Orchid Terrace are grateful he’s sticking around. Ignacio’s kindness and care for the residents are at the heart of what makes Atria communities so special. The Exceptional Service Award simply affirms what his coworkers and residents have known all along – he’s one of a kind. And that’s exactly the kind of exceptional service worth celebrating.