Most people say that it’s the people that make the home, and at Orchard View Gardens that is definitely part of our success and the comforts of our home. We are proud, dedicated and enthusiastic members of the Management Team. Let us introduce ourselves.
Sam Sourchi – Executive Director
Sam Sourchi Executive Director at Orchard View by the Mississippi
Sam has been in the Senior Living industry for the past 15 years as Food Service Manager, General Manager, Director of Operations and now in his current role as Executive Director at Orchard View by the Mississippi. In his role, Sam brings with him years of experience in Ottawa’s busiest restaurants, hotels, and senior living. In this capacity, he oversees and directs the community’s day-to-day functions and efficient operations in accordance with all provincial and local regulations as well as all company policies and procedures. As Executive Director, he also ensures the highest quality care for residents while maintaining the community’s financial stability and creating a harmonious working environment for all caregivers and associates. Sam has a superior understanding of the business, and at the same time, he fosters an environment of positive collaboration with his management team and employees.
As an Executive Director, Sam greets associates daily with his inviting personality and exceptional interpersonal skills, and his passion for making a difference in the life of every resident and associate is transparent. Sam has an open-door policy, and his honest, open communication is authentic.
When Sam is not working he is spending time with family, playing soccer and coaching is son’s soccer team!
Julie Munro – Marketing Director
Julie comes with 25 years of experience working with seniors, customer service and telecommunication. Julie has the passion for always making things better. Should that be in a residents’ life, with staff member or even in the operational side of OVM. She can multi-task and can wear numerous hats with poise and enthusiasm. Julie was the first addition to the OVM and being an Almontonian, Julie has knowledge and personal resources to help in any situation. She is passionate about helping seniors and their families receive the support that they need and want. Julie works with the team and the families to ensure that the transition to a new home is smooth.
On her off time, she is the Vice Chair of the AGH-FVM Foundation Board. You will find her at hockey rinks around Ontario or sitting by a fire and enjoying the outdoors. Julie can never turn down the chance to dance, a good joke or decorating for season. Her specialty is bows.
Kaitland – Activity Director
Kaitland has been promoted from within our organization. She has worked in almost all departments. Her dedication and loyalty is to the residents and her fellow colleagues. Her special approach and creativity enables her to build relationships with residents. If there is ever a need to assist a resident that is not quite sure what is next or understand why, Kaitland can make it happen. She is a gentle and caring soul, but loves a good heckling, which our residents love and respond well to. She has specialized in the engagement of those that live with Dementia.
Kaitland grew up in the Almonte area. Her family is very supportive and engaged in the community. When she is not working you may find her taking her son Harrison somewhere fun, or going hunting with her sister, brother, Dad or close friends.
Brittany DeFalco – Director of Care
Welcome to our New DOC, Brittany Defalco
Brittany Defalco has been an RPN for 10 years and has worked in Retirement Residences for all 10 of those years. She also has experience in hospitals and Long Term Care homes. She enjoys working in retirement residences as it’s a great opportunity to build long term relationships with residents and their families.
When she is not at work she has 3 children I is running around to either the hockey rink, ball field, ski hill, golf course or campground on Calabogie Lake – depending on the season!
Lisa Doering – Resident Care Coordinator
Lisa Doering, Resident Care Coordinator at Orchard View
Lisa has been a RPN for more than 30years. She has extensive experience in working with seniors in Hospital, Emergency and Long Term Care home setting in the Ottawa Valley. Lisa is a facilitator of resources for care and services for the well-being of the resident and the families. She connects our residents with the LIHN, PT, OT, Geriatric Psych. Lisa has developed a strong network of people and resources to support the ever-changing needs of our residents. Her dedication to being the best drives those around her.
When not engaging with families and our residents, Lisa loves to be in the outdoors, canoeing through nature and finishing her day with a bonfire, a good book and her cat.
Joe Demeis – Environmental Services Manager
Joe Demeis, environmental services at orchard view by the Mississippi
Joe has worked with Joe Princiotta for many years and decided to rejoin the team in 2020. Joe has worked in the industry for He has knowledge of both commercial and residential standards. He focuses on ensuring the integrity of the home and the happiness and safety of the residents and staff.
When he is not at work, you will find him spending time with his parents, family watching the Leafs and some football. Joe never misses an opportunity to help, make things right and enjoy a great glass of wine with friends.
Lana Windsor – Office Manager
Lana comes with 40 years of administrative experience that ranges from human resources, billing, customer care and so much more. Her attention to detail provides us with reassurance that all her projects are accurate and well researches. She connects well with residents and loves listening to their stories. Lana has a heart of gold and always seeks the best for our Residents and their family members.
Lana has found a new love of clamping with her family, doing crafts with her grandchildren. She is a wizard on her cricket and helps us to create beautiful pieces for our home.
Shannon Smith – Dietary Director
Shannon Smith Orchard View by the Mississippi
Shannon has worked in a managerial position in food and beverage for over 30 years. In hotels, resorts, restaurants and her own business, On the Go concierge. She has planned many festivals, including Coors Light games, spartan games and concerts. Of all the famous people she met her favourite is Tom Poston. Shannon loves working with our residents to provide the best meal options for them. She says “This is the toughest generation so far and the lessons I have learned from them are thought provoking and inspiring. This position over all the others has allowed her to develop friendships and connection with our residents.
Shannon originates from Toronto making her a true Maple Leaf’s fan. When she isn’t at work, she will be spending time with friends’ treasure hunting, playing golf or going away for the weekends. Her two children love to spend time with their Mom and her dog Bella.
