Our Community: Tenika Christian

Tenika Christian

Director of Residential Services

Where did you grow up?

Originally, I'm from Antigua which is a Caribbean Island. From there I lived in New York and then settled in Philadelphia, PA for most of my fun years.

What is your role at Peaceful Living, how did you come to the role you occupy now, and what is something that many may not know about what you do?

Currently, I'm the Director of Residential Services. I started working with the IDD provider field in 2007 and started my journey as a Direct Support Professional (DSP). From there I became an in-home supervisor, to a manager of multiple homes, to the Assistant Director of Residential Services to where I sit today.

Knowing where I started as a DSP and reflecting on what I’ve accomplished has me pushing our current DSPs, in-home supervisors, managers, and assistant directors. We all can be guilty of placing limits on ourselves! As a newer leader at Peaceful Living, I make sure to value the relationships, achievements, and goals of our entire residential staff. Playing a part in their success is my responsibility and brings me great satisfaction.

What is your favorite part of working at Peaceful Living?

Hands down, my favorite part of working at Peaceful Living is those we serve. I can visit any one of the homes and our individuals are laughing, smiling, dancing, or giving out hugs.

One thing many of my colleagues don’t know about me outside of my Peaceful Living responsibilities is ______. I am sharing this with you because ______.

I'm not sure, I’ve been here so long I think everyone knows it all. Ha!

My favorite thing to do when I am away from work is...

I love tapping into my creativity and putting my artistic skills to work. Baking, painting, decorating (peep my office), or gardening; anything that’s visually engaging and results in a different outcome from the start, is my thing.

Finish this sentence - I can never resist a good _______

Laugh!

Finish this sentence - When I grow up, I want to be a ________

Nurse

Who is your hero? Why?

God, because his standard is the highest. His lessons and examples always remind me of the daily work I can do to improve.

What is the best advice you have ever received?

Not everyone will meet your expectations or standards. Because of that, you must meet people where they are and build from there.