What started as a fun job with a friend right out of high school has turned into a rewarding healthcare career at St. Andrews Village for Tori Brewer.

“I really enjoy being able to help people every day,” Brewer said of her healthcare career. “Whether you are helping the resident or patient, or you are helping their family and letting them know that their loved one is in good hands.”

Brewer began working at St. Andrews Village nearly eight years ago as a dietary aide, cooking and serving meals for residents. But when she heard about LincolnHealth’s free certified nursing assistant (CNA) class she immediately enrolled so that she could take on more responsibilities and help residents even more, she explained.

Today, Brewer continues to receive specialized training at no cost to her thanks to LincolnHealth’s free educational opportunities. She has earned her Medication Technician certification, and is currently in a class to become a CNA-Certified Residential Medication Aide (CRMA). These advanced CNA certifications allow her to give medications to residents.

This fall Brewer was promoted to Customer Relations Coordinator and now helps with daily operations of the Village, manages staff schedules, prepares discharge instructions, and more.

And Brewer is not done yet. When her two children, who are both currently under the age of five, are older she hopes to pursue her goal of becoming a registered nurse.

As long as Brewer is still a benefits-eligible employee of LincolnHealth at the time she enrolls in a college degree program, she can receive tuition assistance as part of her benefits package. The Central Maine Community College Nursing Program at LincolnHealth, which is the only nursing school in Lincoln County, would be a convenient option for Brewer. Full scholarships are available thanks to LincolnHealth and the St. Andrews Auxiliary.

When starting a career in health care, Brewer encourages people to not be afraid to ask questions or for help. “Sometimes people are nervous or shy when they begin their new role, but the more questions you ask, the better it is,” she said. “Everyone at the Village is very willing to help one another, it is a great work environment.”

Although working as a CNA can be challenging, Brewer commented that it is quite fun, too. After all, what other jobs entail Bingo and cribbage games, “Warm Cookie Tuesdays” and ice cream socials every Sunday afternoon? On warm days, staff enjoy bringing residents on walks outside.

“It is amazing talking to residents and hearing about what they have seen and done in their lives” Brewer said. “You get the unique opportunity to develop relationships with them and provide support and kindness when they need it most. It’s special.”

For more information about how you can begin a career at St. Andrews Village or LincolnHealth, please visit www.lincolnhealthme.org.