The Danish Home of Chicago is pleased to announce the appointment of Danielle Santore as the new Director of Nursing. With a strong background in mental health and a commitment to holistic care, Santore is poised to make a significant impact on the well-being of the residents, according to Scott Swanson, president and CEO.
Born and raised on the Northwest side of Chicago, Danielle’s journey in nursing began during her high school years at Guerin Prep in River Grove. After graduating in 2012, she obtained her associate degree at Wright College and went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Elmhurst College in 2018. Currently pursuing her Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) at Loyola University, Danielle is dedicated to becoming a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner.
Danielle’s passion for caring for others and supporting them through their most challenging times led her to work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) during nursing school.
“I was drawn to this field to be able to not only care for patient’s physical health but also their mental well-being so I can care for others on a more holistic scale,” says Danielle.
This experience exposed her to diverse areas of medicine and solidified her desire to provide holistic care. After graduating, she focused her career on mental health, working as a nurse and later as a charge nurse at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital. She also served as a house supervisor and clinical nurse manager at Northwest Community Hospital, gaining valuable experience in geriatric psychiatry.
In her previous roles, Danielle witnessed the transformative power of mental health care. She believes in the importance of not only addressing patients’ physical health but also their mental well-being.
“Working in the mental health field has been incredibly rewarding,” says Danielle. “Seeing patients recover and stabilize from a crisis is always an amazing gift. Patients come in at their lowest, and it is an honor to be a part of their path and journey to finding peace and happiness.“
Danielle’s experience in geriatric psychiatry highlighted the unique challenges faced by older adults, including dementia and the loss of independence. When she discovered The Danish Home and its emphasis on social connection and inclusion, she knew it was the perfect fit for her.
“When I learned more about the Danish Home and their social model, I knew it was the ideal position for me. The Danish Home emphasizes social connection and inclusion for all the residents with a robust activities department and home environment. This position allows me to utilize my experience in mental health to help contribute to an environment that prioritizes the holistic well-being of all residents,” says Danielle.
The Danish Home is known for its commitment to providing a home-like environment for its residents. Danielle’s expertise will further enhance the home’s offerings, as she brings her knowledge and experience to support the holistic well-being of all residents.
It is truly like a home there, and getting to know the residents and their unique life experiences is the best part of the position,” says Danielle.
The Danish Home of Chicago is thrilled to welcome Danielle Santore as the new Director of Nursing. Her enthusiasm, expertise and commitment to holistic care will undoubtedly make a positive impact on the lives of the residents.
The Danish Home
The Danish Home is a not-for-profit boutique senior living community at 5656 Newcastle in Norwood Park, a residential Chicago neighborhood. Independent, catered, and skilled care are offered on a private pay, rental basis. For information, contact Debi at (773) 775-7383 or visit our website at www.DanishHomeofChicago.org. 
