Debbie Allen may not be new to caring for elders but she is new to SunPorch of Dodge City.
Allen, who has always lived within a 50-mile radius of Dodge City, recently joined the long-term-care residence as the new marketing and community liaison.
“I am establishing relationships throughout the community to share SunPorch’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for our elders,” Allen said. “I also am talking with local healthcare providers about what we can offer their patients and families.“In addition,” Allen noted, “I am readily available to discuss the needs of elders who live with us now, as well as the needs of those who may join us in the future. We provide family support through the admissions process and beyond.”
Allen’s employment background includes serving as information specialist at the SouthWest Kansas Area Agency on Aging. While in that position, she became familiar with the Ford County Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) and became its director in 2003; she left there in March.
“Maybe it was my strong connection to my grandparents but I really like working with and for elders,” Allen commented. “I have lived in the Dodge City area for many years and am honored to be in a position to help elders in our community.”She is especially pleased with the new position because she believes in the SunPorch mission.
“The folks at SunPorch offer the best care and services,” Allen said. “They have created a living environment that is resident-centered and have exciting plans for the future.” Those plans include the construction of a Green House Project. This will entail a complex of smaller structures, each of which will be home to about 10 people.
“We offer great one-on-one care now but the Green Houses will allow even more,” Allen said. “The SunPorch philosophy is living a simple, beautiful life. Elders find that kind of life here as they receive care and support from the most highly trained, compassionate staff in southwest Kansas.
“Our staff cares for elders’ physical, medical and emotional needs,” she continued. “And since SunPorch also is committed to its employees, the elders will benefit from a staff that soon becomes like family.”
Allen graduated from Jetmore High School and attended Dodge City Community College. She has three sons: Travis lives in Dodge City; Jason and his family in Phoenix; and Jayme and his family near Eugene, Ore. Most of Allen’s siblings and mother live in the Jetmore area.
Ryan Salinas, SunPorch of Dodge City administrator, said Allen is the perfect fit for this liaison position.
“I am very pleased to have Debbie on board,” Salinas said. “She is the final piece to our administrative team. Besides having a heart for the elderly, Debbie also brings a wealth of knowledge in emergency planning. Her upbeat personality fits perfectly with our team.”
SunPorch of Dodge City is located at 501 W. Beeson Rd.
