Celebrating our 2023-2024 Champions of Care Winners

Elvira was nominated by the family of a client of hers, for whom she cared for with patience and loving kindness. She even learned Korean in order to communicate with her client! The family wrote: “As we mourn the loss of our mother, we would like to express our deep gratitude for the care we have received from Elvira. For the last several years, our day began with Elvira’s visit. We are most fortunate to have known Elvira and we will miss your daily visit. Thank you for everything. “

Marina was nominated by two of her colleagues, Tara and Muna. Tara wrote about a client that Marina had worked with: “Even though it was a complex situation, you respectfully honoured this client’s wishes to remain in his own home for the entire span of his life until he passed away recently. I sincerely admire your dedication and your willingness to go above and beyond to ensure our client received truly holistic care.” And Muna added “Marina’s unwavering commitment to client care goes above and beyond expectations. Her compassionate approach, attention to detail, and ability to connect with clients has a profound impact on their quality of life.”

Radha received two nominations. The wife of a client of Radha’s wrote: “I never worry about my husband when Radha is working. She is so kind and peaceful. She looks after my husband like he’s her own dad. She never gets mad or angry.” And a client’s sister wrote “Radha is the exemplar of what a PSW should be. She is honest, patient, empathetic, and caring. She goes above and beyond, engaging with my brother and keeping the family aware of any changes. We cannot thank her enough.”

Sheree received nominations for her excellent work as a Service Coordinator. After assisting with a challenging, yet urgent problem, Sheree was highlighted by CEO Carey Lucki: “Sheree – I wanted you to know that I did not forget how incredibly helpful you were one late evening back in December when I received a call and required coordination support. Thank you again for your commitment and tenacity to address the issue. The outcome was excellent and it was because of you.” VP of Client Services Andrea David wrote: “Thank you Sheree for going above and beyond the boundaries of caring and committed care. You are a great ambassador for Circle of Care.”

Charito received a nomination from the family of a client of hers, who wrote “Charito was our mother’s PSWs for the past several years. She cared for our mother daily with utmost care and professional excellence. She was always reliable and flexible. She brought calmness and joy into our hectic daily life. Charito, we are so thankful and grateful to you for being there for our mother until the very end of her life.”

Terri was nominated by three colleagues of hers, including Jennifer H., who wrote: “The one we can all count on most is Terri. She is quick to respond, will drop everything to help out a client in need, or a family member that is not sure where to turn. She is the one that the PSWs trust most, and the one that I turn to daily for her tremendous support. No matter what she faces, she always approaches it with such patience, kindness, empathy, and with a goal to help others thrive.”

One of Mary Cris’s clients left a heartfelt message to have her recognize for her kindness. She said “When Mary Cris comes for her visits I feel like I am spending time with my daughter. She is always willing to help me and does so joyfully.” And her CSS said “during my home visit, PSW Mary Cris received high praise from a client’s daughter, who described Mary Cris as an exceptional PSW. The daughter mentioned that the client eagerly anticipates Mary Cris’s visits and the daughter feels extremely grateful knowing the client is well taken care of.”

Cathy was nominated by the family member of an ADP client who was transitioning to long-term care. The family member wrote: “I want to take this moment to express my thanks for the service and care you provided to my brother through your Circle of Care program. The Alzheimer’s introductory booklet you shared with us to was so very helpful. As we completed it together, prior to his moving date to long-term care, I was thankful for the time you invested, helping to prepare us for his move. Although my brother’s time with Circle of Care was brief, your team provided a significant service to our family; you maintained his cognitive and physical activity, leading him to the next stage in maintaining his overall health; and for that we are grateful.”

Gloria overcame a crisis situation with a client that needed urgent medical attention at the assisted living building she works at for many years. Gloria stayed with the client until the paramedics and the police arrived. She gave an excellent report to the EMS and Police team. She was able to encourage the client to get an assessment completed by the hospital medical team which he initially refused despite several attempts of encouragement by the CSS, paramedics and the police officer. Her CSS Divya wrote “Gloria is an amazing PSW! She always goes above and beyond for all the clients at the assisted living building and her timely reporting and dedication towards her clients is greatly appreciated.”

Kai was nominated by three of her colleagues, including Communications Director, Tanya Pikula, who wrote “Kai is one of the best and most diligent advocates for inclusion and diversity that I’ve ever met. She is always researching new strategies to foster a strong DEI culture, and works hard to galvanize folks on this topic. I know that her colleagues across the organization feel inspired and recognized by her efforts, and that she plays an important role in making Circle of Care a welcoming, inclusive and supportive environment.”

Katrina received a wonderful nomination from Director of Client Services, Adeela Kausar, who wrote “Your contributions to our team have been nothing short of remarkable. Your expertise in data analytics and ability to wear different hats and seamlessly transition between roles has provided invaluable coverage where we were short-staffed. Your commitment to excellence is evident not only in the quality of your work but also in the innovative ideas you bring to the table. Your ability to think outside the box and present excellent ideas has been a driving force in propelling our team forward. Your proactive approach and ability to troubleshoot problems have played a crucial role in maintaining the efficiency and cohesion of our operations. Thank you for being a reliable and dynamic member of our team.”

Jessica was nominated by five different people, who all expressed their appreciation to Jessica for her teamwork, her commitment and dedication, and her respect and kindness for others. Tariq S., Client Services Supervisor, wrote: “Thank you so much Jessica for being always available to help and especially for training the new staff. Your contributions are highly appreciated.” A client of hers said “Jessica is an amazing employee and I’m very happy with her.” And fellow Champions of Care winner, and colleague of Jessica’s, Sheree R. wrote “I would like to take a moment to express my sincere appreciation to Jessica. Thank you so much for your willingness to help find staff for our VIP client. This is a clear example of what teamwork is all about. Words can’t express how grateful I am for your commitment and dedication.”