Carefree Living is known for their warmth and hospitality they show to their residents and visitors, but one thing that really sets them apart is staff tenure.  In an industry that averages a 78% staff turnover rate, it is beyond impressive that nearly 50% of the staff at Carefree Living have been employed for greater than 10 years, and 7 of those staff for over 20 years.   Maria, the staff member who’s been there the longest, is proud of her 25 years or service.  When the staff is asked ‘What has kept you here all these years?’, the consistent answer is the Carefree Living owner, Chris Petropoulos, otherwise affectionately known as “El Patron”. 

As a child of Greek immigrants, Chris learned very early in life about the value of hard work, sacrifice and family.  He watched his Father work long difficult hours to earn money to sponsor his siblings to become citizens of the United States.  After a family tragedy, Chris had to go to work as a young child to support his own family.  Over the years, regardless of his success, he continued living modestly in order to give and help others, which is evident in the way he cares for his staff.  He validates all people and is known for rooting for the underdog.

“El Patron” arrives to Carefree Living with donuts, ice cream, lunches and bonuses for the Holidays.  He sings, is a lover of music, and his presence lights up the room.  The kitchen staff return the blessings and serves him a plate of his favorite breakfast, crispy waffles.

Chris has a sense of humor that instantly makes a new staff member, resident, or visitor smile and feel comfortable at Carefree Living, and he doesn’t hesitate to jump in and help whenever he can.  If not in the office or in the community engaging with residents, you’ll find him in his tool room, preparing to enhance the community or to repair a leak.

Staff that have moved on, have returned, making one of his favorite sayings “My children always come back”, quite true.

If you come to Carefree, please take a few minutes to say hello to Chris.  Your day will be better because of it!