Meet Margarita Diaz
Adult Day Program Manager

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Margarita Diaz came to New York Memory Center  as a volunteer in 2008 not knowing much about Alzheimer’s Disease or dementia. “It’s been a big experience, working with people with memory loss. I’ve learned a lot over the years,” she says.

 

Within a year of her arrival, Margarita started working for the center as a per diem driver, and then moved up to part-time driver and program assistant. By 2012 she was full-time, adding Transportation Coordinator to her title.  “My co-workers are wonderful to work with, and I love all the members. We treat each other like family here.”

 

Today, despite a more administrative position as Adult Day Program Manager, Margarita says she will still jump into the driver’s seat when there’s a need. Multi-tasking is one of her many skills.

 

Along with other staff members, she has attended regular dementia care trainings covering everything from communication tips to art therapy to CPR and hands-on care such as lifting and transfers. Most recently she received her food handler’s license and can now supervise meal services at the center.

 

Margarita was born in Puerto Rico but grew up mostly in Sunset Park, Brooklyn. She now lives in Coney Island with her two sons, “the loves of my life.” She hopes to spend the rest of her working years at New York Memory Center — and we hope she does too!