All American Dream Assisted Living holds ribbon cutting

By LYNETTE SOWELL
Cove Leader-Press 

Josephine Olatunji said she has always loved caring for people and now, with her new business, All American Dream Assisted Living, she plans to continue doing so full time. 
On Wednesday, Olatunji, the owner and proprietress of the home, celebrated joining the Copperas Cove business community with a ribbon cutting held at the Copperas Cove Chamber of Commerce offices. 
All American Dream Assisted Living is located at 806 Rodney Ave. and has space for seven adults in the home, said Olatunji. 
“I told my husband about it, that I just feel I need to take care of people, and he was so supportive,” Olatunji said. Originally from Nigeria by way of North Carolina, Olatunji came to the Central Texas area due to the military and has lived in the area for a little more than three years. 
She said there was a lot of paperwork and time involved in obtaining the necessary licenses and bringing the venture to fruition, and they are currently working on becoming a Medicaid-approved provider. 
“We will have a lot of activities,’ Olatunji said. “We’re going to see if we can transport them to the senior center for daily activities. “We will do gardening, and encourage residents to garden.”
Olatunji said they will also work with an nutritionist to make sure the residents’ dietary needs are provided for.
Maria Bertsch is administrative coordinator for All American Dream Assisted Living. With a degree in social work and social administration, Bertsch is also certified by the National Academy of Sports Medicine. 
“I can assess residents’ physical condition, and if their physician says yes, I can put activity plans together for them, Bertsch said, whether that is how to effectively use their wheelchairs, to participate in crafts, or other activities in the home. All American Dream Assisted Living will keep in touch with its residents’ physicians and families regarding residents’ care.
On Wednesday, Bertsch thanked the community in advance for its support.
“It’s a new business and we’re hoping and praying for everyone’s support so it’s a success. It’s a really nice place for anyone who needs assistance in a comfortable home setting. You’re welcome to come visit and take a look. Our focus is on safety and creativity and nurturing care, and love, so that people can still thrive in the comforts of a home setting.” 
All American Dream Assisted Living can be reached at 254-577-5547 or at www.aadalf.com.