Holiday Cookies

Synkwise Holiday Cookies: A Festive Recipe for Group Baking Fun!

Looking for a fun holiday cookie recipe to create a fun and engaging activity?

At Synkwise, we believe in fostering connections and creating memorable moments, especially during the holiday season. That’s why we created this Holiday Cookie Recipe. Not only is it enjoyable, but baking together can also be a wonderful activity to engage residents in assisted living communities and care homes. Furthermore, it promotes holiday fun and a sense of community.

Inspired by the delightful Christmas cookie ideas shared on Fav Family Recipes, we’ve added a Synkwise twist to create a cookie recipe that’s simple, customizable, and perfect for a group activity. Above all, these cookies are as fun to make as they are to eat!

Why Group Baking?

Baking is more than just a holiday pastime. In fact, it’s a chance to:

  • Encourage meaningful conversations about cherished holiday memories.
  • Additionally, foster and build stronger bonds among residents and caregivers.
  • Create beautiful, edible gifts to share with friends, family, or community members.

Synkwise Holiday Cookies Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon (Synkwise twist!)
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg (Synkwise twist!)
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Sprinkles, colored sugar, or any other edible decorations (for a personalized festive touch!)

Instructions:

  1. Prep the Baking Area: First, set up the kitchen or activity area with all ingredients and tools. To make the experience inclusive, engage with residents by assigning simple tasks like measuring ingredients.
  2. Mix the Dough: Next, in a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Meanwhile, in another large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until combined.
  3. Shape the Cookies: Then, roll dough into balls and place them on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Flatten slightly with your palm or a fork. Also, you can use cookie cutters to make fun shapes like snowflakes or snowmen.
  4. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Afterward, bake the cookies for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow them to cool completely before decorating or serving.
  5. Decorate Together: Decorate with sprinkles, sugar, or other edible decorations for a festive touch.
  6. Enjoy Together: Serve these holiday cookies during a holiday party or gift them in festive packaging to friends and family.

Helpful Tips for Caregivers and Providers

  • Involve Everyone: Assign easy, safe tasks like sprinkling decorations or mixing dough to all residents, including those with limited mobility.
  • Pair with a Hot Drink: Serve the cookies with hot cocoa or a spiced tea for a cozy holiday gathering.
  • Make It Customizable: Provide a variety of toppings like mini chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or anything else you want for residents to personalize their cookies with.
  • Create Memories: For an added touch, play holiday music or share stories while baking. Additionally, this will help residents and staff connect while enjoying the holiday spirit.

Why Caregivers Love This Cookie Recipe

This recipe isn’t just about the cookies, it’s about the experience. For example, caregivers and assisted living providers can use activities like baking to encourage residents to stay engaged, share stories, and create lasting memories. Additionally, the simple steps of this recipe make it perfect for all skill levels. Whether residents want to bake or simply enjoy the delicious aroma, this activity offers something enjoyable for everyone.

Acknowledgment

This recipe was adapted and inspired by the wonderful Christmas cookie ideas from Fav Family Recipes. We’ve also added our own holiday twist to ensure it’s perfect for assisted living communities.

Final Thoughts

Creating shared experiences is what the holidays are all about. With this in mind, this holiday cookies recipe can easily and festively brighten the season. So, why wait? Try this recipe out, and let us know how it goes!

Happy Holidays from the Synkwise team!

The Importance of Activities in Senior Care

Senior care is about more than meeting physical needs; it’s about fostering meaningful connections, sparking joy, and enriching lives. Few people understand this better than Tina Ogden, founder of Golden Year Activities. With over seven years of experience in organizing engaging and personalized activities for senior care homes, Tina has become a passionate advocate for the transformative power of meaningful interactions.

Before founding her own company, Tina worked for another activities organization that focused solely on one-on-one interactions with residents. While she recognized the value of these moments, Tina noticed a recurring issue during her visits.

“Residents would ask me, ‘Why don’t we get to do these activities?’” Tina recalled. “It broke my heart that others felt left out.”

Fueled by a desire to bring joy to more people, Tina started Golden Year Activities. Her mission was clear: to create a program that engages all residents, not just individuals, and fosters a sense of community. Today, she and her team specialize in group activities tailored to the unique needs and interests of residents, helping senior care homes enrich their environments and stand out in their communities.

Tina’s experience, combined with her deep empathy and innovative approach, has shaped Golden Year Activities into a vital resource for care homes looking to provide exceptional care. Her philosophy centers on making every resident feel seen, valued, and connected—a commitment that shines through in every interaction.


How Activities Build Connection

Activities serve as a powerful tool for creating personal connections with residents and encouraging them to share their stories. Tina recounted moments where even simple activities, like baking cookies or making paper chains, sparked memories and meaningful conversations.

“One time, we were rolling out dough for sugar cookies, and a resident started sharing stories about baking with her children,” Tina shared. “That connection is priceless—it’s about making them feel like their experiences matter.”

These moments aren’t just about entertainment; they’re about creating a sense of belonging and reminding residents of their individuality. Whether it’s reminiscing about a childhood tradition or recalling a favorite family recipe, activities help residents reconnect with their past while building relationships in the present.


Tailoring Activities to Residents’ Needs

Not all activities work for every group, and Tina has learned the value of adaptability. She always arrives prepared with multiple options, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

“Sometimes an activity just doesn’t click with a group,” Tina noted. “I always bring backups—games, crafts, or even just conversation starters. If one thing doesn’t work, we pivot to something else.”

For example, Tina might bring materials for both door hangers and placemats, allowing residents to choose what interests them most. This flexibility ensures that everyone feels included and engaged, regardless of their preferences or abilities.


Reaching Residents Who Prefer Solitude

Group activities aren’t for everyone, and some residents prefer to stay in their rooms. Tina believes these individuals deserve just as much attention and interaction as those who participate in group settings.

“If a resident doesn’t want to come out, we go to them,” Tina explained. “Even just holding their hand for a few minutes or asking how they’re doing can make a world of difference.”

By taking the time to visit bedridden or solitary residents, Tina ensures that no one feels forgotten. Whether it’s a brief conversation or simply sitting with them for a few moments, these small gestures can have a profound impact.


Activities as a Marketing Tool

Activities don’t just benefit residents, they can also enhance the reputation of senior care facilities. Tina shared how some providers use activities as a key selling point during tours, showcasing their commitment to engagement and enrichment.

“Families don’t want their loved ones sitting in front of the TV all day,” Tina said. “They want to know their parents are being engaged on a social level.”

Highlighting activities in marketing materials or during tours can set a care home apart from competitors. It demonstrates that the facility values not just physical care but also emotional and social well-being.


Overcoming Challenges in Planning Activities

Planning and executing activities isn’t without its challenges, just like any other part of healthcare. From managing residents’ reluctance to balancing providers’ expectations, Tina has faced many hurdles. Yet, her focus remains on creating meaningful experiences for residents.

“Sometimes providers have specific ideas, but the residents aren’t interested,” Tina shared. “We’ll try their suggestions, but ultimately, we focus on what brings joy to the residents.”

For example, a provider might request a baking activity, but if the residents aren’t interested, Tina shifts gears to something they enjoy more. Her adaptability ensures that activities are always resident-centered, fostering a sense of autonomy and engagement. This also shows that what matters most is how the residents are doing, and not just doing something to check something off.


Creating Moments of Joy

The true value of activities lies in the joy and connection they bring to residents. Tina recounted a heartwarming story about a resident who shared her whirlwind love story while looking through a photo album.

“It was an honor to hear her story,” Tina said. “Moments like that remind me why I do this work—it’s about creating connections and making residents feel valued.”

From decorating cookies to reminiscing about childhood traditions, these activities transcend mere entertainment. They serve as a bridge to residents’ memories, helping them reconnect with the experiences and emotions that define their lives.

These moments of joy leave a lasting impact on both residents and staff. Activities help residents rediscover the beauty in living, fostering happiness and meaning no matter their circumstances. In the words of Tina, these connections are the heart of senior care.


The Power of Consistency

Tina emphasizes the importance of consistency in building trust and relationships with residents. Regular visits from the same activities coordinator help residents feel more comfortable and engaged.

“Sometimes residents don’t want anyone else to come to the house,” Tina explained. “They build relationships with the coordinator, and that connection makes all the difference.”

This consistency not only enhances residents’ experiences but also fosters a sense of community within the care home.


Why Activities Are Essential in Senior Care

For providers who haven’t prioritized activities, Tina offers a compelling case for their importance. Activities fulfill a social and emotional need that caregiving alone cannot address.

“Being cared for is one thing, but being seen is another,” Tina said. “Activities give residents autonomy and let them express their thoughts, creativity, and preferences.”

She also highlights the benefits of having a dedicated activities coordinator. Unlike CNAs, who are often focused on caregiving tasks, coordinators can devote their full attention to engaging residents in meaningful ways.

Moreover, activities can serve as powerful tools to combat loneliness and isolation, two common challenges in senior care. A resident who feels disconnected from their environment or peers may struggle emotionally, but a well-structured activities program can reintegrate them into the social fabric of the community. From small group crafts to one-on-one interactions, these moments create bonds between residents, building trust and a sense of camaraderie.


Conclusion: More Than Just Fun

At its core, senior care is about making residents feel valued, heard, and connected. Activities provide a means to achieve this, offering residents opportunities to share their stories, express themselves, and engage with others.

As Tina beautifully put it, “Activities are a means to an end. It’s not just about what we do—it’s about the relationships we build and the joy we bring.”

For providers looking to enhance their care homes, prioritizing activities isn’t just a good idea—it’s essential. Whether it’s a simple craft or a heartfelt conversation, every interaction matters. Tina’s insights serve as a powerful reminder of the impact that activities can have on residents’ lives and the importance of fostering meaningful connections.

Need Activity Ideas?

Looking for more engaging activities to brighten your residents’ days? Or maybe you’d like a dedicated coordinator to bring creativity and connection to your home or facility?

Reach out to Tina Ogden at Golden Year Activities for tailored ideas and support.

Tina Ogden of Golden Year Activities
📧 Email: Tina@goldenyearactivities.com
📞 Call: 503-730-7367

Let’s make every day a little more joyful and meaningful!

Thanksgiving Activity For Senior Care Residents

Here is A Thanksgiving Activity For You To Try
Creating meaningful and enjoyable activities during the holiday season is a wonderful way to engage residents and bring out their creativity. One activity that Tina Ogden of Golden Year Activities shared with us at Synkwise, is making personalized placemats for Thanksgiving. This craft not only allows residents to express their creativity but also encourages meaningful conversations and reflection.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating these Thanksgiving placemats with your residents:

What You’ll Need:

  • Large pieces of construction paper (or other sturdy paper for the placemat base)
  • Scissors
  • Stickers
  • Markers, crayons, or colored pencils
  • Glue sticks
  • Decorative cutouts (holiday shapes, fall leaves, turkeys, etc.)
  • Coloring sheets
  • Wax paper
  • An iron (for the final step)

Instructions:

  1. Set the Stage
    Start by gathering residents together and explaining the activity. Let them know they’ll be creating personalized placemats to celebrate Thanksgiving. This can be a wonderful opportunity to talk about the holiday, share stories, or discuss what Thanksgiving means to them.
  2. Write Gratitude Notes
    Provide each resident with a piece of paper to write down what they are thankful for. Encourage them to share their thoughts if they’re comfortable. This step can act as a great icebreaker and conversation starter, sparking meaningful exchanges among the group.
  3. Get Creative
    Give each resident a large piece of construction paper as their placemat base. Hand out the materials like stickers, coloring sheets, cutouts, and markers. Let them decorate their placemats however they like—there’s no wrong way to do it! Encourage residents to personalize their designs to reflect their personalities or memories.
  4. Assemble the Placemat
    Once the decorating is complete, you’ll move to the final step: laminating the placemats. Lay one piece of wax paper on top of the placemat and another on the bottom, completely covering both sides. Carefully iron over the wax paper on low heat to seal the placemat and make it durable.
  5. Enjoy the Finished Product
    Once cooled, the placemats are ready to use! They’re not only festive and functional but also a great keepsake that residents can show off to their families or use year-round.

    Here are some examples:

Why This Activity Works

This placemat-making activity offers more than just a creative outlet—it fosters community, reflection, and engagement. By sharing what they’re thankful for, residents can connect with one another and celebrate the holiday spirit. Plus, the hands-on nature of the craft is ideal for residents of varying abilities, making it an inclusive and meaningful way to spend time together.

Give it a try this holiday season, and let us know how it goes!


Need More Activity Ideas?

Looking for more engaging activities to brighten your residents’ days? Or maybe you’d like a dedicated activities coordinator to bring creativity and connection to your home or facility?

Reach out to Tina Ogden at Golden Year Activities for tailored ideas and support.

📧 Email: Tina@goldenyearactivities.com
📞 Call: 503-730-7367

Let’s make every day a little more joyful and meaningful

Employee Spotlight – Michael Aguilar

1) Can you describe your role at Synkwise and what a typical day looks like for you?

As a Customer Support Specialist, my primary responsibility is to assist customers by addressing their concerns, resolving issues, and ensuring their satisfaction with the solutions provided. My day typically begins by reviewing and responding to any emails, texts, or calls that came in after hours the previous day. When customer inquiries are low, I focus on completing assigned tasks and other administrative duties as required.

2) How has your role evolved since joining the team, and what are some key skills you’ve developed along the way?

I initially joined Synkwise as a part-time employee, providing on-call support to assist with tasks such as addressing operational needs. Over time, I transitioned to a full-time role as a Customer Support Specialist. Throughout my journey, I’ve gained a wealth of skills and experience, thanks to the invaluable guidance of our CEO, Claud, and my direct supervisor, Isaiah, who also serves as the Director of Customer Support.

Some of the key skills I’ve developed include verbal and written communication, active listening, attention to detail, and adaptability. However, the most significant skill I have honed at Synkwise is my empathy and patience. Given that many of our customers may not be familiar with new technology or devices, being able to approach each interaction with understanding and care has been essential to providing exceptional service.

3) What accomplishment are you most proud of at Synkwise so far?

One of the most rewarding aspects of my role at Synkwise has been witnessing the transformation of customers who initially struggled with technology. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see them become proficient in using Synkwise, and it’s especially gratifying when they no longer need to reach out for assistance. Knowing that we’ve empowered them to navigate our platform independently is a testament to the positive impact we have on our customers’ lives.

However, the accomplishment that I am most proud of during my time at Synkwise occurred last December, when I had the privilege of contributing to our Synkwise Compassion Program. Growing up on the small island of Camiguin in the Philippines, I’ve always carried a deep sense of connection to my hometown. Through the program, I was able to provide food and groceries to more than 25 families in need, including elderly residents who have no one to care for them and families struggling with the daily challenges of life. Being able to give back to the community that raised me was a truly humbling and meaningful experience.

4) What do you enjoy doing in your free time? Do you have any hobbies or passions?

During my free time, I love going out with my family, like going to a mountain to view scenery and going to the beach. When I’m home I love to play video games.

5) Is there something surprising about you that your colleagues might not know?

I’ve always felt comfortable expressing myself and sharing my thoughts and challenges with my colleagues, which has helped build strong, supportive relationships within the team. However, there is one thing I haven’t yet shared with them: my passion for exotic pets, such as tarantulas, and other fascinating creatures. I’ve actually owned a few of them in the past, but with the exciting addition of a baby to our family, I had to find them new homes. It’s a bit of a humorous shift, but one that I’m happy to make as I embrace this new chapter in my life!

6) Do you have a personal motto or piece of advice that inspires you?

Matthew 11:28-30

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

7) Where do you see Synkwise going in the next 3-5 years, and what are you most excited about?

I can see Synkwise Dominating the US market within 3-5 years. I can’t wait to see Synkwise going world wide and having a team building experience with the whole team.

Marketing Your Adult Family Home: Proven Strategies to Keep Residents Coming

Running a Adult Family Home/AFH (4-20beds) is more than just providing care—it’s about creating a community that families trust and residents love. While names vary across states, such as RCFE or RAL, this guide applies to them all, offering strategies to help your facility thrive in a competitive landscape.

To help us dive deeper into this topic, Claud Covaci, CEO of Synkwise spoke with Sara Scheetz, owner of Senior Living Locator, a placement agency in Vancouver, Washington. With years of experience in the long-term care industry and a passion for helping families find the right fit for their loved ones, Sara brings valuable insights into effective marketing strategies for smaller residential care homes.

Drawing from Sara’s expertise, we’ll share practical strategies that can help improve your outreach, fill your beds, and ensure your adult family home stands out from the competition.

1. Build a Strong Online Presence

Most potential residents and their families start their search online. If your facility doesn’t have a strong digital presence, you’re missing out on reaching families who may need your services. Here’s how to make sure your facility is easy to find:

Update Your Website:
Your website is often the first impression people have of your AFH. Make it modern, easy to navigate, and mobile-friendly. Highlight your services, care options, and staff expertise with high-quality images and testimonials. As Sara emphasizes, “Families are more educated now and want to see a website link.” Even a basic website can make a difference, especially when potential residents want to compare options before scheduling a visit.

Leverage Free Resources:
Use Google My Business to ensure your facility appears in local search results, and create a Facebook page to share updates. “Utilizing the free things that are already out there, especially when you’re new, is super important,” Sara advises. These tools can help establish your online presence without breaking the bank.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO):
Optimize your website for local searches, such as “Adult Family Homes in [city].” SEO ensures that your facility ranks higher in search results, reaching families searching for specific services. Tools like Google Keyword Planner can help you identify the search terms your target audience is using.

2. Use Social Media to Build Relationships

Social media isn’t just for big brands; it’s a valuable tool for smaller facilities too. It’s where families, caregivers, and potential residents spend their time. Your strategy should showcase the life and warmth of your facility.

Share Resident Stories and Activities:
Posting photos and videos of residents enjoying activities can humanize your brand and show the vibrancy of life at your AFH. Sara points out, “Don’t be afraid to show off what you’re doing. If you have a Super Bowl party, take a picture of the snacks and decorations.” Even if you’re not comfortable featuring residents directly, share images of events and setups to demonstrate that there’s always something happening.

Engage With Your Audience:
Respond to comments and messages promptly. By actively participating in conversations, you show that you value your community’s input. This personal touch builds trust and reinforces your commitment to providing exceptional care.

3. Leverage Reviews and Testimonials

Word-of-mouth remains incredibly powerful in the assisted living space. Families want to hear from others who’ve had positive experiences with your home.

Encourage Reviews:
Sara emphasizes the importance of reviews, stating, “There’s no better marketing tool than word of mouth.” Encourage residents and families to leave reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, and Facebook. A collection of positive reviews provides social proof and helps potential residents see the quality of your AFH.

Use Testimonials Strategically:
Feature testimonials prominently on your website and marketing materials. Real-life stories from satisfied families can help build trust with prospective residents. Keep testimonials updated to ensure they remain relevant and impactful.

4. Offer Virtual and In-Person Tours

A strong marketing strategy includes giving potential residents and families a firsthand look at your home. In today’s world, offering both virtual and in-person tours is crucial.

Virtual Tours:
Create high-quality virtual tours showcasing common areas, resident rooms, and activity spaces. “Show that there’s life going on,” says Sara. Highlight the vibrancy of your facility.  Virtual tours allow families to get a feel for your facility without needing to visit in person.

In-Person Tours:
Make this experience personal. Have a friendly staff member guide the tour, answer questions, and showcase what makes your facility feel like home. “Highlight your unique features,” Sara advises. Let families see what sets you apart from other options.

5. Community Involvement & Networking

Building trust means being an active part of your community. Positioning your home as a hub shows that you care beyond your walls.

Host Events and Open Houses:
Organize family days, health workshops, or open house events. This allows potential residents and their families to experience your adult family home in a warm, non-salesy environment. Think of these events as planting seeds for future admissions.

Educating Families on Quality Standards:

Establishing trust with potential residents and their families starts with transparency about your home’s quality standards. As Sara noted, “There’s a misconception that adult family homes aren’t as regulated as larger communities, but they are, with annual inspections and high standards.” Educating families about these rigorous requirements can help dispel doubts and highlight the high level of care your facility provides. Making sure families understand the regulations you adhere to reinforces your commitment to quality and sets your home apart as a trusted choice in senior care.

6. Utilize Email Marketing

Email marketing is a powerful tool for staying connected with potential residents and their families.

Highlight Updates and Events:
Use newsletters to share information about upcoming events, new services, or improvements in your facility. Being transparent and sharing what’s happening helps families feel more connected to your home.

Provide Valuable Content:
Share helpful articles, tips, or resources related to eldercare. “Knowledge is power,” Sara says, and using email marketing to educate your audience will build trust.

7. Focus on Your Unique Selling Points (USPs)

Identify what sets your home apart in a crowded market. Is it a specialized care program, a higher staff-to-resident ratio, or a home-like environment?

Create Differentiators:
Highlight your niche in your marketing materials and while working with referral agents. “If you have a specialty—like hospice or memory care—make sure everyone knows,” Sara suggests. Whether it’s offering personalized activities or unique therapies, make it a core part of your messaging.

8. Work With Placement Agents

Placement agents can be invaluable partners for adult family homes. They help families navigate the long-term care world, making it easier to find the right fit.

Embrace Transparency:
Working with placement agents who prioritize the best interests of the residents can build trust. As Sara shared, “I’m a flat rate placement agent versus a percentage-based one, which gives families confidence in my recommendations.” Find a reliable placement agent you can trust and will help you keep your beds full.

Prepare for Multiple Moves if Necessary:
While families often desire a one-and-done solution, Sara advises that it’s crucial to be transparent about the potential need for a secondary move if circumstances change. As a result, setting realistic expectations will helps families feel prepared but also ensures they’re equipped for any future adjustments, particularly in assisted living.

Conclusion: Make Your Marketing Work for You

With the right marketing strategy, your adult family home can thrive by attracting new residents and building trust. As Sara shared, “The right fit goes beyond just meeting care needs; it’s about finding where residents will truly thrive.” Emphasizing the quality of life at your home and helping families make informed decisions will set you apart from the competition.

Embrace these strategies to take control of your marketing efforts and create meaningful connections. By using online tools, engaging authentically with your community, and highlighting what sets your AFH apart, you can build a strong reputation that attracts the right residents. When you focus on building trust, you not only fill beds, but also establish a lasting reputation as a place where people genuinely want to be.

Sara Scheetz give tips on assisted living marketing

“There’s a misconception that adult family homes aren’t as regulated as larger communities, but they are, with annual inspections and high standards.”

Sara Scheetz, Owner and Placement Expert of Senior Living Locator.

Sara has over 18 years experience in Long Term Care including the inception and operation of an in-home care agency and is certified in Adult Family Home Administration. She is the co-founder of A Caring Closet, a local nonprofit that provides medical equipment to seniors for free. Sarah has been recognized as one of the Washington State University Women of Distinction and the Vancouver Business Journals Accomplished and Under 40 and was the recipient of the Metropolitan Senior Network Care Award. She serves on the Caring Closet Board of Directors and the Hope Dementia Support Group Advisory Board. Sara grew up in Vancouver and is passionate about her community.

Employee Spotlight - Sarah Holbura

Employee Spotlight – Sarah Holbura

🌟 Introduction: My Journey with Synkwise

My name is Sarah Holbura and I am a Customer Support Specialist at Synkwise.

I started working at Synkwise shortly after obtaining my Associate of Arts degree at Clark Community College. I am coming up on 1 year of working here at Synkwise and I could not be happier with my experience so far!

🚀 Starting at Synkwise: Training and Growth

Throughout my first few months of training I remember not just enjoying the work, but the environment I was working in. I had coworkers and managers supporting me through the learning curve, making sure I wasn’t overworked or burning out, and helping me grow my skill set in my new position. As the months went on, the company culture stood out to me as a place that I could not only thrive professionally, but personally as well. I have learned so much here that I have applied to other areas of my life and that has helped me learn a lot about myself.

🎤 First Conference Experience: A Turning Point

My second month working at Synkwise I attended the 2023 Easy CEU Fall Conference in Portland Oregon. Experiencing that conference firsthand showed me how much this product impacted the healthcare community, and how big of a difference we were making. It was a confidence booster that the work I was doing was making a difference in our community and was truly helping providers everywhere. It made me proud to be a part of Synkwise.

💼 Evolving in My Role: From Tasks to Customer Onboarding

My role as a Customer Support Specialist has been a process in the making. When I started out, I was just learning the system and completing minor tasks. As my knowledge grew, I was interacting with customers on a daily basis, and frequently emailing them as well. As of about 4-5 months ago, I started doing onboarding calls with new customers, which was a great experience for me to see the journey of a new customer using our system.

🙏 Gratitude and Looking Ahead

I’ve accomplished and learned so much in just a short amount of time, and it truly reflects on the solid foundation this company has built prior to my arriving here. I am beyond grateful for the amazing people here that have become like family to me, and I hope to continue to grow and expand my skills to be able to succeed in my position and contribute to the growth of the company.

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Employee Spotlight – Gavin Schippers

My name is Gavin Schippers, and I am the marketing strategist for Synkwise.

I just ended my academic career at George Fox University after four years with a bachelor’s degree in Marketing at the end of April. This was a huge accomplishment for me and I was so excited to get my career started with Synkwise, as I had gotten my job offer the day before graduation.

I started two weeks later after accepting the job and it has been a great experience so far in this first few months working at Synkwise. Everyone has been so supportive and kind, really letting me know I made the right decision coming to Synkwise. During these first few months, I have had a lot of meaningful conversations during lunches or just being in the office has made the transition from college to career very smooth. I have started working on different projects such as making social media posts and crafting emails, and it has been a blast working on these. It’s really an awesome experience working on these sorts of tasks after coming out of college, to actually make those study hours worth it.

 I also love how I am continuing to improve my own skills in marketing and I love the energy coming from my team when they see some of the stuff I have been working on. The support from the team really can impact how work is for you, and I feel the support from my team for every endeavor I do. There is nothing to be scared or stressed about when asking for an opinion or advice from someone here at Synkwise. Everyone’s roles affect each other so everybody makes the effort to help each other, which is so great. 

The people at Synkwise, are some the nicest people ever too. Even with people working in different countries and time zones, they always have each other’s back and find ways to show their appreciation to each other. One fun thing we did here at Synkwise, was the Synkwise Summit 1.0, where the team got together and learned from different organizations and leaders. This was a very impactful experience where we did exercises such as role-playing different scenarios, where I really saw the whole team connect and bond. This was also followed by a dinner where we got to hang out and appreciate each other’s company. 


I also recently just went on my first business trip in California for the 2024 RAL Conference. This was such a great learning experience. I got to talk to so many different people and made some great connections. We also got to explore some of the local restaurants and beaches nearby which was a blast.

Overall, I would say that my first couple of months at Synkwise have been a great experience and it’s great to be surrounded by so many great people. I definitely made the right decision by joining the Synkwise team. I am excited to see how much Synkwise can grow and figure out different ways I can help this growth for both myself and Synkwise.

Gavin Schippers | Marketing Strategist
gavin.schippers@synkwise.com
Synkwise in SoCal

Synkwise in SoCal #2024

Synkwise Returns to SoCal for the 2024 RAL Conference

We’re thrilled to announce our return to sunny Southern California for the 2024 Residential Assisted Living (RAL) Conference at the Anaheim Marriott, hosted by the RCFE Association! This event marks a significant milestone for Synkwise, as we reflect on our exponential growth since our last visit and look forward to welcoming even more members into the Synkwise family.

Reflecting on Our Journey

Since our inception, Synkwise has been dedicated to raising the standard of care in residential assisted living facilities. Our innovative EHR/EMR solutions have empowered facilities across the nation to streamline their operations, improve patient care, and meet regulatory standards with ease. The unwavering support we’ve received from our users has been instrumental in our growth and success.

Celebrating Growth and Community

Our journey has been one of continuous improvement and community building. With over 1,500 facilities nationwide now using Synkwise, we are proud of the impact we’ve made and are excited about the future. The RAL Conference provides a unique opportunity to connect with industry leaders, share insights, and explore new ways to enhance the care provided in RCFEs.

Connecting with You

If you operate a Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (RCFE) in the SoCal area, we would love to connect with you during the conference. Our team is eager to discuss how Synkwise can support your facility’s needs and help you achieve your care goals.

Book a demo: Click Here

Join Us

Visit us at the 2024 RAL Conference at the Anaheim Marriott. Let’s continue to raise the standard of care together. Thank you for being part of our journey and for your continued support. We can’t wait to see you there! https://ralconference.com/

With heartfelt appreciation, The Synkwise Team

Synkwise Summer Internships

Join the Synkwise Summer Internship Program!

Calling All Students!

As the school year wraps up and summer begins, Synkwise is thrilled to announce our exciting summer internship program. This is a fantastic opportunity for students from various majors to gain valuable, hands-on experience in the thriving healthcare technology industry.

Located in Camas, WA, Synkwise is a rapidly growing SaaS company dedicated to improving resident care through innovative electronic health records (EHR) and electronic management record (EMR) systems. Our internship program is designed to offer students the chance to make a real impact while developing their skills in a dynamic and supportive environment.

Who We’re Looking For

We are looking for motivated students from a wide range of majors, including but not limited to:

  • Marketing
  • Business Administration
  • Communication
  • Computer Science
  • Computer Engineering
  • Cybersecurity
  • Data Analytics
  • Financial Planning
  • Social Work
  • Graphic Design
  • Film & Video Production
  • Nursing

Why Intern at Synkwise?

At Synkwise, our interns are not just observers—they are contributors. You will work on meaningful projects that directly affect our mission to raise the standard of care for the aging population. Whether you’re designing graphics, developing software, crafting marketing strategies, or analyzing data, your work will have a tangible impact on our products and services.

How to Apply

Ready to make a difference this summer? Visit Synkwise Internship Program to learn more about our internship opportunities and how to apply. Don’t miss out on this chance to kick-start your career and be part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and excellence.

Join us at Synkwise and make your summer count!

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