Tina Mingenback has added a new credential to her formal education to better serve residents at Cherry Village Benevolence.
Mingenback is now a certified dietary manager at the non-profit, long-term-care facility at 1401 Cherry Lane.
This formal certification followed completion of her ServSafe management training; Mingenback also earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration in 2000 at Ottawa University.
“All of us at Cherry Village understand the importance of good nutrition for our residents,” Mingenback commented. “My recent formal education allows me to be even more knowledgeable about their dietary needs.”
Mingenback’s responsibilities include: assisting the Cherry Village dietitian; overseeing the dietary department; planning meals; and performing administrative duties related to budget and payroll.
“Most important, however, is ensuring that our residents have the proper nutrition at each of their three meals a day,” she noted. “And, of course, we want everyone to be happy with what is served.
“We talk with all our residents about their likes and dislikes,” Mingenback continued. “We also know who requires certain types of diets, such as low-fat or low-salt.”
If Mingenback discovers that a resident is not eating properly, she and Donna Marbut, director of nursing, collaborate about how to improve the situation.
“We talk with the resident and family to determine what changes should be made,” Mingenback explained. “Changes in meal preparation may be the answer or we may learn that dietary supplements could help.”
Cherry Village residents may eat their meals in the dining room or in their own suite. Snacks and fountain drinks are always available.
“Residents are encouraged to eat in the dining room so they can interact with one another,” Mingenback said, noting the importance of socialization. “However, we also understand if they want some quiet time in their rooms.
“But whatever they choose, our goal is to satisfy their nutritional needs, as well as their taste buds,” she added. “If they don’t particularly care for a certain menu item, we take requests. Our team has one purpose – to ensure the safety and comfort of our residents.”
Mingenback earned her new certification from the University of North Dakota after 18 months of study. She and her husband, Andy, have one daughter, Alyvia.
Pam Lewis, Cherry Village administrator, said Mingenback is a “blessing” to residents, families and the staff.
“It is not easy to complete the requirements to become a certified dietary manager,” Lewis said. “Yet, Tina continued to work full-time to bring joy to everyone here. Food brings us all together, and Tina’s contributions are invaluable.”
A local family manages Cherry Village, which is a non-profit entity.