Claire Mansfield, a resident at Scotia Village for nearly 13 years, has become an integral part of the community, known for her commitment to communication and connection. Claire’s path to Scotia Village began in a unique way when she met Marketing Director, now Executive Director Allen Johnson at a marketing event in Fayetteville, North Carolina. After learning about life plan communities, she joined the waiting list for Scotia Village, feeling an immediate connection each time she visited.
“Every time I walked into Scotia Village, it felt like home,” Claire said. This strong sense of belonging led her to join the Resident of the Future waiting list, and she made it a point to stop by and check in with Allen during her visits to Laurinburg.
Claire moved into Scotia Village shortly after meeting Allen, initially settling into a villa before transitioning to a Garden Apartment two years later. “I’m good at moving,” Claire remarked. “But most of all, I’m just very grateful to be here.”
From the start, Claire appreciated the social environment at Scotia Village, which she says was particularly valuable during the COVID-19 pandemic. “I had no family or nearby close friends. Living here, with the care they provided, was a blessing during that time,” she shared. “I would have struggled to stay proactive for my health without the support of the community.”
In addition to enjoying her life at Scotia Village, Claire has given back to the community through her involvement in various initiatives. She is an active member of the Hix Society, a charitable group at Scotia Village. She once held the position of president of the SVRA, and has served on committees at one time or another. Her contributions extend to the Brightspire Foundation, where she serves on the Board of Directors.
“Claire is a valued member of our Scotia Village family,” said Marisa Ray, Executive Vice President of Philanthropy. “Her outreach to residents and staff, her service on the Brightspire Foundation Board, and her efforts in writing and communication make a positive impact. Claire keeps residents and team members connected with her organizational skills and warmth.”
Claire’s passion for communication became evident shortly after her move to Scotia Village, when a neighbor asked her to take on the role of editor for the Scotia Times, the monthly internal newsletter. As a former educator, Claire was a perfect fit for the role. She collaborates with multiple departments to create a newsletter that keeps the community informed and engaged.
Each month, Claire comes up with a theme for the newsletter, coordinating contributions from various departments. “In January, we focused on cows,” she said with a laugh. “I even decorated a cabinet near the dining hall with cow-themed items!” Claire’s creative approach has made the Scotia Times a highly anticipated eight-page newsletter, filled with new resident profiles, event updates, and celebrations of birthdays and anniversaries.
Claire also recognized the need for improved communication for families with loved ones in skilled nursing at Scotia Village. To address this, she created The Tartan Quarterly, a publication that provides a photo book of events and activities in the skilled nursing area. “I realized people weren’t always seeing what was going on in healthcare,” she explained. “I wanted to make sure families stayed connected with their loved ones.”
Despite her significant contributions, Claire remains humble about her work. “It’s not about writing the perfect newsletter,” she said. “It’s about creating something that captures the heart of Scotia Village, and that’s what matters to me.”
Claire’s impact on the community extends beyond her written work. Tim Webster, Co-Chief Executive Officer of Operations for Kintura, praised Claire’s dedication to enhancing the quality of life for fellow residents. “Claire is the type of person who always puts a smile on your face and makes you feel valued and appreciated,” he said. “She is always looking for ways to improve the lives of those around her, and she does so with generosity, offering her time, talent, and treasure.”
Claire’s contributions have made a lasting impression on the residents and staff at Scotia Village, and her work continues to foster a sense of connection and community.