Two Roles, One Heart: How John and Amy Near Bring Teamwork, Humor, and Family Spirit to Heritage Green

True community in senior living is built on consistency, familiar faces, and people who treat their daily work as an extension of home. At Heritage Green Rehab & Skilled Nursing, that dedication runs right through the family. For John and Amy Near, working side by side has turned everyday facility operations into a shared mission of teamwork, empathy, and plenty of lighthearted moments.

The Power of Teamwork: Behind the Scenes and at the Front Desk

John and Amy hold distinct roles across the facility, but their daily collaboration keeps the building running seamlessly:

  • 24 Years of Leadership with John: Serving as the head of maintenance, John brings unmatched institutional knowledge to the building. From keeping equipment operational to ensuring safety, he knows the ins and outs of every hallway.
  • Vital Administrative Flow with Amy: As a Clerical Assistant, Amy is a welcoming anchor. She manages admissions paperwork, supports the front desk, and walks new families through unfamiliar territory with patience and care.
  • A Daily Blessing of Support: Whether John is delivering a much-appreciated cup of coffee to Amy’s desk, collaborating on incoming admissions to align room prep and paperwork, or Amy alerting John when residents are heading out so oxygen tanks are ready ahead of time, their communication makes both jobs easier. When time permits, a shared break gives them a well-deserved moment to recharge.

Quick Wit, Mutual Respect, and Accolades

Beyond his 24 years of hands-on expertise, John is well known across Heritage Green for his approachable demeanor, quick wit, and natural ability to bring a smile to staff, residents, and families alike. Over more than two decades, he has built lasting relationships where everyone is on a first-name basis. His reliability and good humor have not gone unnoticed by his peers, who have twice voted him Employee of the Year.

“All the staff and I get along great and have respect for each other. I guess they like me—they made me employee of the year twice!” — John Near, Head of Maintenance

Stepping Up for the Floor and Families

For both John and Amy, caring for the community extends well past formal job titles. When the floor is busy, Amy readily jumps in to lighten the clinical team’s load—whether assisting with resident feedings, charting tickets, spotting a mechanical lift, or making urgent phone calls for the nurses.

“I know that the staff is tired and sometimes just plain worn out. If I can help them by taking a little off their plate, I will… organization and communication is key!” — Amy Near, Clerical Assistant

 

An Extended Family Built on Core Values

Having dedicated decades to Heritage Green, coming to work feels less like clocking in and more like being with extended family.

  • Open Communication: Whether coordinating room setups, preparing medical equipment, or managing paperwork, they believe openness and transparency keep daily operations thriving.
  • Empathy & Compassion: Recognizing that healthcare days can bring unexpected challenges, they approach residents, visiting loved ones, and colleagues with patience and humor.
  • Making Heritage Feel Like Home: Their shared priority is ensuring residents feel recognized, comforted, and valued every single day.

“Many of the residents know us by name and truly appreciate what we can do for them to make this feel like their home, so they are not so sad. There are many workers at the Green that go above and beyond for the residents—it truly is teamwork.” — Amy Near

Through every shift, fresh cup of coffee, and coordinated admission, John and Amy Near demonstrate that when dedication and humor are rooted in family, the entire community feels the warmth.