Comfort Keepers is a licensed in-home care agency that provides excellent care and resources for individuals who wish to remain in the comfort of their own home. They employ over 100 special Comfort Keepers (caregivers) that provide the care in people’s homes, facilities or hospitals for as little as one hour a day up to 24 hour care. Comfort Keepers is committed to helping seniors and individuals by providing care and support that improves quality of life and enables independent living at home. Kelli Donner is the Territory Manager for Comfort Keepers Omaha.
How did you get started in the business? – I personally have worked in Human Services/Healthcare and Behavioral Health for many years. This business, as well as my position as Territory Manager, seemed to be a great fit for me with the experience I have and the experience and knowledge that I strive to learn.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – I have faced many challenges and obstacles with the individuals I have served over the years. Whether it be a need of resources or a status change in health, we are with them every step of the way. And when you continue to work with individuals in this close and personal manner, it can be very difficult. It can be both professionally and emotionally challenging to find that healthy balance.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – I think the most important achievement has been being able to have a healthy balance between my professional and personal life. I pride myself on being able to provide the attention and love to my children that they very much deserve while being a single, working professional. However, that would not likely always be the case if I did not work for such an amazing and family oriented company, such as Comfort Keepers.
Tell me a little about your family. – I come from a family of 5. My sister Michelle owns her own catering company and my brother Nick owns his own steel fabricating business. My parents Richard and Jolene have been married for almost 40 years and are retired and living on an acreage by Lewis & Clark Lake. I also have two children of my own. Reegan, my oldest, is very active in sports and definitely has a passion for soccer. My youngest, Brayden, is my social butterfly and the comic of the family. They both definitely keep me on my toes! I am very blessed to have such an amazing and loving family.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – The biggest turning point in my life has been my children. They have taught me the meaning of selfless love and have encouraged me every day, without knowing it, to be the best person I can be.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Spend time with my boys or play golf.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – To live all aspects of your life with integrity.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Genuine.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? – I really enjoy cooking.
Which talent would you most like to have? – I have always wanted to be able to sing, however, I was not blessed with that gene. The last time I was singing my son stopped me and said, “Mom! Can you even hear yourself?!” I suppose that was a sign. And I am so blessed to have such honest kids.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – At (402) 991-9880 or via email at kellidonner@comfortkeepers.com, or visit our website at www.comfortkeepers.com.