The Branches: Keeping Seniors Connected To What Matters

This Patch article is sponsored by The Branches of Marlboro.

The Branches of Marlboro is a Benchmark assisted living and memory-care community for seniors, which is coming this fall to Route 85 in Marlboro. The community is committed to keeping residents, their family members and associates connected to who and what matter most in their lives. They achieve these goals through a “people first” philosophy, a collaborative design and flexible floor plans that encourage social interaction.

Christie Bavuso, assistant executive director of The Branches of Marlboro tells Patch more about the community's unique approach to assisted living and memory care in this exclusive Patch one-on-one:

Patch: How long have you been doing business in town?

Bavuso: Our parent company, Benchmark, is based in Waltham and has been building and managing senior living communities in Massachusetts and other parts of the Northeast for over 22 years. Even though Benchmark has 25 communities in Massachusetts, The Branches of Marlboro will be our first in the Metrowest region and we are very excited!

Patch: What attracted you to the line of work you’re in, and how did you get started?

Bavuso: I joined Benchmark over 20 years ago after high school as a part-time server in the dining room. I knew right away by the interactions and the relationships that I made with everyone that this is where I belonged and I’ve never looked back. My passion is truly the people. Being able to build relationships with families, caring for the residents and fostering a sense of teamwork with the associates for a company that genuinely cares for everyone is what drives me. It’s my purpose in life.

Patch: If you had to sum up your business mission to a stranger in a few words, what would those words be?

Bavuso: Keeping everyone connected to what matters.

Patch: What’s the biggest challenge or most difficult moment you’ve faced in your job?

Bavuso: Aging can be challenging and often times emotional — not just for the person who is going through it but for their loved ones, too. We have very close relationships with our residents and their family members so it can be hard to see them go through these challenges. But like any good relationship, we work through it together — ensuring they are supported and stay focused on what’s meaningful and possible at every stage of their lives.

Patch: What’s the most satisfying part of your job?

Bavuso: I’m satisfied when I see our residents happy, active and engaged in life. Over the years, I’ve seen many people who were hesitant to move in to one of our communities but after doing so they have a renewed sense of purpose and are more active and social than they were before. To help our residents write the next chapter of their lives and to see their family members be able to rest easy and connect with their loved ones in new ways is very gratifying.

Patch: How would you say your business or organization distinguishes itself from the others?

Bavuso: We are committed to redefining the aging experience. We get to know each and every resident — their likes and dislikes, what they are passionate about, understand their physical, emotional, social and spiritual health, and develop programs that will connect residents to one another and support their short and long-term goals. For those who need it, we develop individualized care plans delivered 24/7 that meet residents where they are today to maximize their independence. We also have a very strong sense of community—supporting like-minded organizations in the greater Marlboro area and through things like volunteer programs that are done in collaboration with other local individuals and businesses including our neighboring schools.

Patch: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given when it comes to success?

Bavuso: Do what you love and you will never work another day in your life.

Patch: Are there any new projects or endeavors you’re working on that you’re extra excited about?

Bavuso: Getting our doors open for the first time is truly a big undertaking and certainly one that we are very excited about! When open, we will be able to accommodate up to 104 residents and will feature amenities like a spacious outdoor patio with a farmer’s porch, fire pit, beauty salon, library, fitness center and a bistro featuring all-day, restaurant-style dining. From our dining staff down to our care providers, we are building a very special team of dedicated, experienced individuals who share our mission to elevate human connection.

Patch: Do you have any events coming up in your community? If so, tell us about them.

Bavuso: Our Welcome Center is open seven days a week. On August 10 from 10 a.m. to noon we are holding an Open House. This fall we are also planning on offering a number of educational opportunities on topics such as easy downsizing and how to pay for senior care.

Patch: How can Patch readers learn more about your work and business?

Bavuso: For more information, call (508) 658-9340, visit our website or you can find us on Facebook.