40 Years of Caring at Concordia: Michele Kildoo

President and CEO Keith E. Frndak proclaimed the week of April 22, 2023 as Michele Kildoo Week at Concordia in recognition of her 40 years of service.

Michele has exemplified Concordia’s Statements of Value since her first day on April 23, 1984.

“When I first applied, I was looking for a good place to work,” Michele said. “I applied at a few other places, but Concordia called first and had a strong faith-based background. I was just 20, and working at Concordia meant that I was around a lot of senior role models. It helps you grow up.”

In Michele’s work as a CNA, she has most enjoyed learning about the amazing lives of those she cares for, and she is known for her work ethic and ability to connect with residents.

“I have always loved listening to their stories,” she said. “They were just like us when they were younger, working hard and making memories. I remember one resident telling me how she designed and hung all the curtains in the White House, another one telling stories from when she was an airline pilot and a lot were missionaries and would share their travel experiences. I’ve learned a lot here, both professionally and about these great people.”

Michele also met an important person in her life through Concordia.

“I met my husband Gary here – he works in the maintenance department,” Michele said. “I knew right away when I met him; I said, ‘I’m going to go out with that guy.’ And I did. We’ve been married for 29 years.”

Michele lives in Herman with Gary, their daughter Hallie, who also works at Concordia, a dog and a cat.

“Hallie has worked here for about nine years in the dietary department,” Michele said. “My sister, Marsha, also worked here until she retired a couple years ago. It’s definitely a family affair.”

Some of Michele’s favorite memories from her 40 years at Concordia are attending the annual Christmas parties.

“We used to have just one small party, and some of us would put on skits,” she said. “And now it’s just grown bigger and bigger every year. No other corporation does anything like that for their employees – they don’t get Christmas hams or bonuses or anything around the holidays. Concordia has always just been like home – been like a family. It’s great to work here.”

Employees like Michele are one of the main reasons why Concordia remains strong and committed to faithful caring. Thank you for all your hard work, Michele!

Learn more about career opportunities at Concordia by visiting us at www.ConcordiaCareers.org!

Founded in 1881, Concordia Lutheran Ministries is a faith-based, CARF-accredited Aging Services Network and recipient of the inaugural Pennsylvania Department of Aging Excellence in Quality Care Award. As one of the largest nonprofit senior care providers in the country, the organization serves 50,000 people annually through in-home care and inpatient locations.