Greg, a social worker in our Senior Behavioral Health unit, loves to interact with his patients. He listens, supports nursing staff, and cares a lot about the people he helps. Yet, it’s his sweet side gig that entices his coworkers, creating ripples of joy and connection throughout the hospital.
The Sweet Beginning
Greg’s journey as the Candy Man began with a simple observation: “Haven’t met many people who don’t have at least a slightly better day if offered random candy or a warm cookie.”
With this belief, he started sharing candy and freshly baked cookies with his coworkers, an act that quickly became a beloved routine. The surprise on people’s faces when they first received his treats quickly transformed into gratitude and appreciation.
“Without fail, every time I make my rounds, multiple people will say some variation of, ‘How did you know I needed that?’”
A Recipe for Connection
Among the assorted sweets, Greg’s cake cookies are a standout favorite.
“A warm cake cookie definitely, bad pun intended, takes the cake,” he jokes.
These treats, along with his spontaneous candy offerings, have become a bridge, fostering closer relationships with coworkers he might not have interacted with otherwise.
“After starting to give out snacks, I noticed an increase in the amount of people who would ask me for help,” he notes, proving that trust and camaraderie can be built through small acts of kindness.
Fostering a Positive Environment
The impact of Greg’s gestures extends beyond individual smiles. His approach has inspired others within the hospital to bring snacks to their own work areas, creating a ripple effect of kindness. Greg firmly believes in the power of these small acts.
“Everyone wants to be valued and providing an act of kindness, regardless how small, shows that you value or appreciate the other person,” he explains.
This not only enhances workplace relationships but also contributes to a more supportive and collaborative environment.
A Personal Reward
For Greg, the rewards of his candy distribution are both simple and profound.
“It’s nice to see people have a better day,” he says.
Greg’s humor and positivity shine through in all he does, including his penchant for telling dad jokes, which helps keep the atmosphere light.
Beyond the Sweets
While candy is his signature, Greg also spreads kindness in other ways. He strives to maintain a positive outlook, offering a listening ear to colleagues who feel frustrated or overwhelmed. His willingness to help and his infectious humor contribute to a workplace culture where people feel valued and supported.
In a setting where stress can often overshadow smiles, Greg’s simple yet profound acts of kindness remind everyone at NMC Health of the power of a sweet gesture. Through cookies, candy, and contagious laughter, the Candy Man ensures that even in the most challenging times, there’s always a reason to smile.
