Celebrating 30 Years of Service: Carsin Olson

For 30 years, Carsin Olson has been a dedicated member of the team at Perry Lutheran Homes, serving residents and families in the Perry community with compassion and care.

Carsin first came to Perry Lutheran Homes to help fill in for what was then known as the staffing “pool.” It didn’t take long for her to realize she had found something special. “I just loved being at Perry Lutheran Homes and decided to stay,” she said.

Over the years, Carsin has served in a variety of roles, beginning as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). She later completed training to become a Certified Medication Aide (CMA) before stepping into an administrative role. Today, she serves as Medical Records Secretary and Purchasing, supporting the day-to-day operations that help care teams serve residents well.

For Carsin, Perry Lutheran Homes has become much more than a workplace. “It’s home to me. No matter what the day brings, I truly enjoy serving here and being part of something that means so much to me,” she shared. She added, “When we first moved to Perry over 30 years ago, we knew it was a special place, and it quickly became home for our family.”

Over three decades, Carsin has built countless relationships with residents and families. While she says it’s impossible to choose just one favorite memory, the impact has been lasting. “All of the residents over the years have given me such a full life. So many friends, and the memories of them will always be with me.”

“Carsin was one of the most loyal team members I had the privilege to work with,” said Deb Koelln, former Director of Nursing and current Perry Lutheran Homes board member. “She consistently gave her best and showed genuine care for residents in everything she did.”

Melissa Gannon, administrator at Perry Lutheran Homes, added, “Carsin is always willing to step in and help wherever needed. She takes strong ownership of her role and brings a steady, positive presence that impacts both residents and staff each day.”

Carsin has also witnessed meaningful progress in care over the years. “One thing I’ve noticed is the leaps and bounds in dementia care. We have come a long way in how we help people; it’s just incredible,” she said.

As Perry Lutheran Homes celebrates 70 years of service, Carsin takes pride in being part of a ministry that continues to grow and evolve while staying true to its Christian mission. “I can’t wait to see what’s next, especially the continued growth of our intergenerational ministry,” she said.

Perry Lutheran Homes is grateful for Carsin Olson’s 30 years of faithful service and the difference she continues to make each day.

Perry Lutheran Homes is a non-profit, faith-based Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) serving individuals and families in Central Iowa. Guided by Christian values and a 70-year legacy of compassionate care, Perry Lutheran Homes provides a full continuum of services including home care, independent and assisted living, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, respite care, long-term care, memory care, and home-delivered meals. As an intergenerational community, Perry Lutheran Homes fosters meaningful connections across generations while helping individuals live with dignity, purpose, and grace in every season of life.