Czarlon [Lon] Galapon, director of Environmental Services at Wesley Bradley Park, has grown a lot since he came to Wesley in 2014. His career journey is inspiring in its simplicity and yet says a lot about Lon’s dedication.
Listen to our interview with Lon on Wesley’s Informed Choices podcast and read on for more!
Check out more of our podcast episodes here.
Lon’s Journey at Wesley
In 2014, Lon stumbled across an opportunity at Wesley that would ultimately shape his career. He started as a housekeeping manager at Wesley Des Moines, overseeing the cleanliness and comfort of the community.
“From the very beginning, I took pride in creating a welcoming environment for residents and staff, knowing that even the smallest details could make a big difference in their daily lives,” says Lon.
Over the years, Lon’s role expanded. In 2020, he was promoted to assistant director of Environmental Services [ES]. This transition allowed him to take on greater leadership responsibilities managing operations, mentoring staff, and ensuring Wesley maintained the highest standards in environmental services. It was a challenging time, especially navigating the complexities of the pandemic as well as Wesley Des Moines’ redevelopment. However, these challenges reinforced Lon’s commitment Wesley and highlighted his ability to adapt under pressure.
“In 2023, I was honored to step into the role of director of ES at Wesley Bradley Park. This position has given me the opportunity to lead on a larger scale, supporting Wesley’s expansion projects like the East Brownstone and the Barndt Family Rehab & Care Center. Seeing these Phase II projects come to life and knowing they will serve more residents is incredibly rewarding,” says Lon.
What is Environmental Services?
As the director of ES, Lon oversees the maintenance and day to day operations of the community. He ensures that the buildings, grounds, and essential systems—like HVAC, electrical, and plumbing—are well-maintained so residents can live comfortably and safely. Lon also oversees Housekeeping to uphold cleanliness and compliance with health and safety regulations. He and his team create an environment where residents and staff feel secure and supported.
That support can be given in any number of ways. “One story that stands out is when we had a resident who was nervous about moving in because they needed special accommodations for their mobility. We worked closely with them and their family to modify their living space. We installed grab bars, adjusted fixtures, and ensured everything was accessible. A clean, safe, and comfortable environment contributes to the happiness, health, and dignity or residents. Seeing how comfortable they became in their new home and how much it meant to their family was a great reminder of why we do what we do,” says Lon.
Lon has developed several key skills that have helped him grow, including leadership/team management, problem-solving/critical thinking, budgeting/project management, regulatory compliance, and communication and relationship building. These skills will help him as Phase II progresses.
Looking toward Phase II
“I’ll be involved in community planning, construction oversight, and ensuring a smooth transition for when the new buildings open,” says Lon. “This includes working with contractors, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and preparing the maintenance team for the new spaces. My role is to make sure everything operates efficiently from day one.”
Being involved in new construction is exciting for Lon. “Seeing a project go from blueprint to reality and knowing I played a role in shaping the future of Wesley is incredibly rewarding. Of course, construction comes with challenges—timelines, coordination, and unexpected issues—but the end result makes it all worthwhile,” he says.
Additionally, having a strong team helps the campus run smoothly. Lon is a big fan of recognizing hard work. “A simple ‘thank you’ goes a long way,” he says. “Inspire is a great way to provide those recognitions. I also make sure the team has the knowledge and tools they need to succeed. We work together, support each other, and celebrate successes which creates a team-oriented environment.”
Remember what’s important
Lon has some words of wisdom for those just beginning their careers at Wesley.
“The most important lesson is that every job matters. Whether you’re cleaning a room or managing a department, everything we do contributes to the well-being of residents,” says Lon.
Additionally, he says, “Be proactive. Take the initiative to learn beyond your role. Build relationships to connect with staff, residents, and leadership. Stay open to learning. New challenges bring growth opportunities. Be dependable. Showing consistency and a strong work ethic will help you stand out. You also need to have a heart for service and a commitment to excellence. If you’re passionate about helping people and creating a positive living environment, this is a rewarding career.
“Looking back, my journey at Wesley has been one of growth, resilience, and purpose. What started as a job quickly became a passion—a commitment to ensuring Wesley remains a place where residents feel at home and staff feel empowered. I’m excited for what’s ahead as we continue to expand and evolve, and I’m grateful to be part of an organization that truly makes a difference,” says Lon.