Foundation donates to Learn & Earn for hands-on training

Big Bob, as he was aptly named by Western Home Communities’ Learn & Earn team, is a bariatric manikin provided by the foundation. Innovative in design, the manikin simulates a 350-pound male patient and provides a more realistic and interactive experience for students. Director of Education Krista Dreyer says, “It is very important for clinical staff to have the opportunity to practice skills for a variety of situations. This manikin helps our employees learn how to properly care for residents of all sizes and needs.”

Caring for obese patients has unique challenges and Big Bob will help students learn more about patient transfers and lifting, pressure injuries and caring for the skin, to name a few.

The Learn & Earn program assists current employees with continuing education and provides CNA training and clinical onboarding for new nurses, CNAs and resident assistants.

In 2023, their classrooms moved to 1025 Technology Parkway.

Krista Dreyer and Jerry Harris with Big Bob at the Learn & Earn Center.