Cheryl Harvey

Manager of Foodservice 

After graduating from high school and college, I began my career as an Early Childhood Educator—a path quite different from long-term care. For the next fifteen years, I balanced my work in early childhood education with raising my own family.

After much reflection, I realized I was ready for a new direction. I wanted to give back to our elders in a meaningful way, and I found the answer through my passion for food and my belief in the important role it plays in health, comfort, and quality of life.

In September 2011, I joined WEV as a casual Foodservice employee. By 2012, I had accepted my first permanent part-time position. From the very beginning, I found great fulfillment in helping provide healthy, nutritious, home-cooked meals and baked goods for our residents.

Within my first few years on the team, I knew I wanted to become a cook and, perhaps one day, a manager. I have always believed that learning never truly ends, and I have embraced every opportunity to expand my knowledge and develop new skills. Along the way, I completed a variety of courses and earned several certificates that supported my professional growth.

In 2017, with the encouragement and support of my teammates and management, I took on a new challenge by returning to college as an apprentice. In 2018, I accepted my first Cook position, and by July 2019, I proudly earned my Cook’s Red Seal certification.

In 2021, I had the opportunity to temporary step into the role of Foodservice Supervisor. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and discovered how rewarding it was to lead and support the team, encourage professional growth, and strengthen the important role Foodservice plays within The Elms as a whole.  I then returned to my Cook position until January 2023, when I was honoured to accept the permanent role of Foodservice Manager.

Today, I remain committed to continuous learning, both for myself and for my team. I look forward to supporting their growth, fostering a positive and collaborative environment, and leading us to be the very best we can be for the residents we serve—today and tomorrow—while working alongside our colleagues across all departments and our valued care partners.