When choosing a senior living community, it’s easy to focus on amenities, dining options and activities. But what truly sets one community apart from another? The people.
At Atria, great employees mean great experiences for residents. The dedicated team members don’t just provide services – they create meaningful connections, bring joy to daily life and turn a place to live into a true home. One shining example is Sulpi Caburi, an Atria Walnut Creek team member whose dedication and warmth have made a lasting impact on residents for more than 30 years. Her commitment earned her the 2024 Excellence in Service Award from the California Assisted Living Association (CALA).
An award-winning team creates an exceptional senior living experience
Atria residents benefit from the passion and dedication of people like Sulpi, who has worked as part of the dining room team for more than three decades. Her ability to brighten a room, her dedication to serving others and her heartfelt approach to resident care make her an invaluable part of the community.
“Sulpi takes care of people, from our residents to new employees. She is a true team player on every shift that she works,” says Kelli Greene, Executive Director of Atria Walnut Creek.
Sulpi’s approach to service extends far beyond delivering meals – she creates an environment where residents feel valued, seen and heard. Her impact is felt in the smiles she brings to the dining room and the connections she builds with every resident she serves.
Beyond service: Building genuine connections
At Atria, senior living isn’t just about providing meals and services – it’s about creating a place where people feel at home. Sulpi embodies this philosophy through small but meaningful gestures, like singing to residents who may be feeling down.
“I like to entertain members of the community if they are down or feeling sad. I will sing to help them feel better – I get to be a singing server!” Sulpi laughs. “I sometimes sing about how much I care for them and how special they are. Making residents smile and feel happy is the best part of my job.”
This warmth and care are what make Atria stand out – because great service is about more than efficiency; it’s about heart.
Choosing the right senior living community: Why staff matters
When considering senior living options, it’s important to look beyond amenities and ask: Who will be there day in and day out to provide care, companionship and support? Atria’s award-winning team members, like Sulpi, prove that the right people make all the difference.
“That’s because the dining room is where we get to visit with all our residents. Sulpi truly loves what she does, and the residents have a fantastic time with her,” Kelli notes.
With a team that treats residents like family, Atria creates an environment where people don’t just live – they thrive.
The Atria difference: A place to belong
For Sulpi, working at Atria is more than just a job. It’s a calling. Her 31 years of service reflect a deep dedication to older adults, a commitment that extends beyond the workplace and into her personal life.
“I’ve been serving seniors for nearly 31 years. During my time at Atria, I also cared for my mother, who had Alzheimer’s disease. I treat our residents with the same care and service I’d give my own family.”
This philosophy is what makes Atria special – a team that doesn’t just provide care but truly cares.
Choosing the right senior living community is about more than amenities – it’s about finding a place that feels like home. At Atria, our dedicated team members, like Sulpi, make all the difference. Ready to experience the Atria difference for yourself or a loved one? Schedule a visit today and meet the people who turn our communities into family.
You might also like
Want to learn more about life at Atria Senior Living?
