Sustainability stewards

St. Teresa Place sustainability stewards

A thriving, green space can transform a healthcare environment, promoting healing, mobility and a deep sense of community. The sustainability stewards at St. Teresa Place recognized this and took it upon themselves to restore the natural beauty of their facility — turning a vision of environmental stewardship into action.

Faced with the unexpected loss of over 30 trees on the property, the team refused to let financial constraints stand in the way of replanting. Staff members, including health care aides, licensed practical nurses, leadership, Sodexo staff, Alberta Health Services partners and volunteers, generously donated new trees and dedicated their own time to removing the dead ones and planting the new ones. When citywide water restrictions in Calgary threatened the survival of the newly planted trees, they responded with ingenuity, gathering pond water from the community and repurposing shower and rainwater to keep the trees healthy.

Their commitment to sustainability reflects more than just a love for nature. It embodies responsible resource management. By working together and finding creative solutions, they prevented unnecessary spending, ensured efficient water use and enhanced the environment for residents, families and staff.

Beyond their immediate efforts, the team’s dedication to environmental stewardship leaves a lasting impact. Their actions contribute to cleaner air, a more inviting space and a legacy of sustainability that will benefit future generations. Through their generosity, teamwork and determination, the sustainability stewards have created more than just a beautiful outdoor space. They have fostered a culture of responsibility, resilience and community pride.