28 Oct Empowering CNAs Through Mentorship: The Preceptor Program

At The Woodlands at Furman, Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) are the heart of care. Recognizing the emotional and physical demands that come with supporting older adults, leadership at The Woodlands launched the Preceptor Program – an eight-week initiative designed to empower CNAs through mentorship, teamwork and trust.

What the Preceptor Program Is

The Preceptor Program is a structured training and mentorship program that prepares experienced CNAs to guide new team members. In short, it’s a program to train people to train others to succeed.

Preceptors act as mentors, supporters and teachers for new CNAs, helping them transition confidently into their roles. The program provides a strong support structure not only for new hires but also for seasoned team members who continue to learn and grow. If a CNA needs help or advice, preceptors are there to listen and guide.

Why It Matters

Senior living work is deeply meaningful – and at times, deeply emotional. CNAs provide care that goes beyond daily tasks; they build relationships, share moments and offer comfort. Programs like this ensure that every CNA feels supported and equipped to provide the best care possible.

As one preceptor shared, “Having support in a way where people feel like they can ask questions or ask for help keeps CNAs – and keeps good CNAs.”

When team members feel valued and connected, everyone benefits: residents, coworkers and the community as a whole.

Inside the 8-Week Training

The program combines weekly online courses, essays and mentorship meetings.

In the first few weeks, preceptors focus on reconnecting with the purpose behind their work: caring for others. They explore how personal experiences can shape professional interactions and learn to recognize when a teammate might need extra support.

Later in the training, the focus shifts to mentorship skills – learning how to train new hires effectively, build trust and maintain open communication. Each week includes discussion on how to apply the lessons in daily practice, along with a test to reinforce key concepts.

The curriculum covers essential professional skills such as:

• Leadership
• Team building
• Interpersonal skills
• Conflict resolution
• Communication

Positive Results and Real Impact

Since the Preceptor Program began, The Woodlands at Furman has seen lower turnover, stronger morale and a spirit of teamwork across the CNA staff. Team members have developed a “trainable and teachable attitude,” making it easier to learn, collaborate and provide attentive, relationship-centered care.

One success story illustrates that perfectly:

“A couple months ago, we had a CNA who didn’t know how to do a certain task. I had trained this CNA and built that trust. They came to me and asked for help and we did it together. Now this CNA is confident and able to serve our community with ease.”

Mentorship and Leadership Involvement

Preceptors are mentored by Director of Nursing Desiree Reid and Administrator Chris Pagliaro, who provide guidance throughout the training process. Leadership remains closely involved, holding meetings with preceptors to share ideas, discuss challenges and celebrate growth.

That collaboration helps the program evolve – ensuring every CNA, whether new or experienced, feels heard and supported.

“The Preceptor Program is more than training – it’s culture in action. By empowering our CNAs to mentor and support one another, we’re strengthening the heart of care at The Woodlands,” said Rick Brackett, president and CEO of The Woodlands at Furman. “When team members feel valued, connected and equipped to grow, that sense of purpose radiates throughout the entire community – touching residents, families and staff alike.”  

A Culture of Care and Connection

For many CNAs, the Preceptor Program has reframed their work as not just providing care, but building relationships – with team members, with those they support and with leadership.

At The Woodlands at Furman, that philosophy extends to everyone. Through mentorship and mutual respect, the Preceptor Program continues to strengthen a community where people of all ages feel valued, connected and cared for.