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2010 Award WinnersFeb. 17, 2010 At its annual Institute each year, Aging Services honors individuals and organizations who personify the mission of the association. Below are the 2010 award recipients and their stories:
Caring Heart Award - Caregiver of the Year When Rhonda Blokzy, a nursing assistant at RiverView Care, was fighting cancer this past year, Winston Johnson was there for his co-worker. Winston, a fellow nursing assistant at RiverView for 35 years, helped Rhonda win the most important battle of her life. It's a poignant example of why he is so special to the residents and staff at River View. "His insights and his prayers not only comforted me, but I know he was a big part of my recent "cancer free check up" said Rhonda. Sandy Boice, the Director of Nursing, said Winston's happy, jubilant personality benefits all who come in contact with him. "He comes to work everyday with a cheerful smile," said Sandy. "He's always positive with the staff. We never hear him say a negative word. He loves what he does." It's coming in on his day off or volunteering to assist a resident with shopping or drive them to a doctor's appointment. His actions inspire the residents. They'll tell you it's a great day when you are in Winston's care. Carrie Michalski, the Vice President of Senior Services, says it's so uplifting to see Winston reach out to the residents when they're having a difficult day. "Winston will come up and offer to pray with them and you can see the change." Shana Lanctot, the resident care coordinator, recalled when Winston would come in daily to visit his own father when he was a resident at RiverView. "He'd take him for car rides. His father had a roommate who didn't have any local family. Winston would take him along on the car rides. When Winston's father was no longer able to go on the rides, he continued to take the roommate." Sandy summed up her feelings toward Winston when she said, "I hope he is still a nursing aide when I needed to be cared for." Added Rhonda, "There is no end to Winston's acts of kindness. I know it's going to be a great day when Winston is here." To view Winston's story, click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rOnnvNfgArE&feature=channel.
Caring Heart Award - Supporting Caregiver of the Year As a housekeeper at Minnewaska Lutheran Home, there's a special ingredient that Karen Moe mixes in her cleaning supplies every day. You won't find it on any store shelf. It's called heart and soul. Mix in a bright smile, a listening ear and an ambitious attitude and you have a solution that makes everyone around Karen sparkle. Debbie Schneider, the Minnewaska Lutheran Home Administrator said Karen is truly a team player whose everyday goal is to make a difference in the lives of all around her. "I can't imagine MLH without her." "Karen is also on our Best of MLH Committee and is constantly sharing ideas on how to better the Minnewaska Lutheran Home. There is no task too big or too small for her." One of the areas that Karen has truly embraced at Minnewaska is the Culture Change atmosphere. Julie Amundson, the MLH Activity Director, said Karen is always looking for new ways to enhance the homelike experience for all residents. "She visits daily with the residents in her area, listening to their needs and concerns. She has rearranged their rooms to be more convenient and has helped residents decorate." One of the ingredients that Karen uses every day is something called Fun and it can be contagious. It's essential element for making special events at the Lutheran Home a memorable experience for all. Don't expect MLH to try to market these special ingredients to others. They don't want to share the secret or its originator with anyone. To view Karen's story, click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QleERH7MEq4&feature=channel.
Caring Heart Award - Volunteer of the Year Ebenezer Ridges Care Center Administrator Erin Hilligan's first introduction to Susan Roufs was as the "friendly beauty shop lady." It didn't take her long to realize that Susan's skills went way beyond her time in the beauty shop. All you have to look at the art on the walls of the beauty shop which were painted by Susan herself. It's an experience that can ultimately teach you about the beauty of the human soul and where it can take us. Resident Doris Myron, who met Susan in this beauty shop, never imagined that Susan would bring out her creative side. "When Susan started volunteering for the art class, she asked me to come and paint," said Doris. "I'd never painted before. I gave it a try and I've continued to paint." Susan's passion for lifelong learning opportunities not only inspired Doris, but countless others at Ebenezer. As a member of the Art Guild, she supports the Spirituality and Creative Arts Program. Peggy Ludwigson, Ebenezer's Life-Long Learning Coordinator said Susan was the first volunteer to help with the program. "As an artist, she appreciates the importance of art as a way to express feelings." Andrea Lewandoski, the lifelong learning coordinator at Ebenezer said volunteers like Susan have a rare and special quality. As an active volunteer, Susan also organizes events such as the Auxiliary Cookbook, Summerfest and the ice cream social. "They take the opportunity to serve others and unconditionally give of themselves. She has a strong commitment to enhancing the resident's quality of life. " To view Susan's story, click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gsGbctXu-Y0&feature=channel.
Trustee of the Year - Kent Eklund, Ebenezer, Minneapolis If you want to judge the power of networking, look no further than Kent Eklund. Eklund, the chairman of the board for Ebenezer Society, has used his creative leadership style and exceptional visionary ability to impact the direction of the organization for more than two decades. Mark Thomas, the president/CEO of Ebenezer, said Kent has been instrumental in taking Ebenezer from a financially-strained organization to one that is considered a leader in the industry. "His overall connections and networking with the broader Lutheran community, business and political circles ultimately help us provide stronger service and care for thousands of Minnesotans," said Mark. Ebenezer's owned and managed revenue base now exceeds $120 million with 55 operating entities that touch the lives of 3,500 seniors each day. Under Kent's leadership, Ebenezer's creative models have included intergenerational adult/child daycare centers, transitional care networks and the advancement of the latest technology in senior housing and assisted living. "His sponsorship of the Geriatric Care network Program was instrumental in forming the National Chronic Care Consortium." Because of his leadership, Thomas says a new understanding evolved between acute care and long-term care in the support of seniors with complex care needs was created. John Selstad, the secretary of the Ebenezer Board of Directors, said the work of the network ultimately played a role in Ebenezer merging with Fairview Health Services where innovations such as the transitional care network and Fairview Partners resulted. "He is the role model for what we look for in a trustee," stated Mark. To view Kent's story, click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hZ1Z-b_2cVo&feature=channel.
Administrator of the Year What are we doing right and where do we need to improve? A leader has to ask the tough questions. At Parmly LifePointes, the person asking these tough questions to staff, residents, community and family is Mary Cordts, the administrator/executive director. It's one thing to ask the questions. It's another thing to take these suggestions and spearhead positive changes and programs which enhance the quality of life for everyone. That's exactly what Mary has done in her role. With her leadership, Parmly has added a new chapel and developed three memory care units, a transitional care unit and a wellness center - just to name a few areas. Dorothy Grandstand, the president of LifePointes Advisory Board said Mary's vision and commitment toward teamwork is an example for all to see. "When Mary arrived, we were a board and care," said Dorothy. "Thanks to her leadership and ability to bring people together, Parmly is now a skilled nursing senior community." That vision and leadership extends into her staff, according to administrative assistant Michelle Metzler. "She has encouraged all of us to dream and be creative." These visions have resulted in award-winning innovative initiatives dealing with the journey of life, disease, wellness and death. Employees are asked what they like about working at Parmly. "Family" is the word they all use - and it stems Mary's commitment to a team approach. To view Mary's story, click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f4vmfYuyKcY&feature=channel.
Senior Housing Leadership Award When Good Shepherd Community experienced four stressful power outages, including one lasting eight hours and then a water pipe leak that caused water to be shut off for two hours, it was the presence of April Myers, the Director of Housing, that boosted morale. Evelyn Gothoudt, a resident of Good Shepherd, said April's motto is tenants first and these aren't empty words. "She went door-to-door to thank the residents for their patience and she offered all of us treats. We could've complained, but no one did because April cared." Barb Rebischke, the vice president of outreach, said April lives to serve the tenant. "She is inspired by their lives and she respects and honors their many accomplishments," said Barb. April continues to set high goals. This past year, as in previous years, the goal is to not accept any less than 95 percent tenant satisfaction. She raised the bar even higher for future goals when two of her senior apartment buildings had tenant satisfaction ratings of 100 percent. And she wants to provide a progressive atmosphere for the latest developments and programs. In the past month, April was instrumental in obtaining a grant to provide an on-site falls prevention program for tenants known as Matter of Balance. "April is the glue that binds us together as a campus family," said Evelyn. "We love her." To view April's story, click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c3xq9igvzDw&feature=channel.
Leadership in Action Award When a state senator recently visited Sylvan Court in Canby to talk about the challenges facing older adult services, Peggy Roe set the message straight. Whatever the current economy brings, the standards for the caring of residents will not change, she said adamantly. There's also something else that staff and residents know will not change at Sylvan Court. It's the leadership that Roe, a social worker at Sylvan Court, has provided for 30 years. After all, this is an individual that continues to go above and beyond the call of duty. "Even after 30 years, Peggy is a change agent," said campus administrator Nancy Salmon. "She isn't a grandstander, but if a group or situation needs to get back on track, she'll take charge." Her actions definitely define her personality. Consider the fact that she has personally been delivering a discharged resident's mail to his home in the community for more than a year. When a resident passes away, she writes a personal note to the family. "I can't imagine Sylvan court without Peggy, " said Liz Verhelst, a Sylvan Court social worker. "She is so dedicated to her job and our entire community. To view Peggy's story, click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hAxNclzFiAw&feature=channel.
Katie Perry, Director of Communications and Development; CEO Mark Anderson; and Marketing and Communications Specialist Jessica Kritz Community Impact Award - Knute Nelson, Alexandria It could be said that Knute Nelson in Alexandria has no walls or ceiling in its senior community. Its boundaries stretch throughout the community and into this vast lakes region. Marketing and Communications Specialist Jessica Critz has seen first hand the importance of partnerships and programs in the community. "I grew up here and I've seen how everyone works together," said Jessica. "It's just incredible to see the impact that Knute has in the area." This year alone has brought numerous opportunities to partner in the community. One such initiative involves Alexandria Technical College. This new programming, called Senior College, is geared toward aging adults and the desire to remain active, engaged and informed. From the classroom to the great outdoors - by land and by water. On land, Knute Nelson chose to support the Douglas County Historical Society by donating a one-acre parcel of land for future use. On water, Knute Nelson knows that life on the lakes was a way of life for many residents. Hence, the partnership in the Let's Go Fishing Program. A highlight for many residents and tenants, this unique organization offers individuals the opportunity to go fishing or on a relaxing cruise on one of the many lakes in the region. We owe so much to this community and it's the right thing for us to give back," said CEO Mark Anderson. "This is our home." To view Knute Nelson's story, click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pFu8pKGWGxA&feature=channel.
Rabbi Shalom Reznik-Bell and Michael Klein, Sholom Home West Administrator Living Our Mission Award - Sholom Community Alliance, St Louis Park, St. Paul The name and the physical location have changed through the years...the scope of the outreach has broadened its base. However, Sholom Community Alliance has never strayed from its mission of honoring thy mother and father and doing so in accordance with Jewish traditions and values. The words from Psalm 71: 9-13 resonate throughout the community as strong today as they did in 1908." "Do not cast me off in the time of old age; do not forsake me when my strength fails," are inscribed on several of the buildings and serve as a daily reminder of that mission. Back in the early 20th century, the Jewish community of St. Paul recognized the need to have a facility to care for its elderly poor. Long before Medicaid and Medicare, members of the board would meet with older people who needed care and make arrangements for them to move in. The mission is steeped in accordance with Jewish traditions, but Sholom's doors are open to people of all religions. Those principles are evident in the many changes that have taken place over the last 14 years. Sholom has evolved from a single nursing home to an organization caring for more than 1,000 residents and tenants. "The future is very exciting," said Michael Klein, Sholom Home West Administrator. "We're always looking for new opportunities to keep our seniors healthy and independent. We are able to do this because for 100 years we have worked with seniors and understand that autonomy and choice are what older adults are seeking. " To view Sholom's story, click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bd7kY93H5_U&feature=channel. Excellence & Innovation Award Recipients
Chris Jones, Vice President of Resident Services; Chad Spoden, Vice President of IT; Bruce Glanzer, President & CEO; Rhonda Pohl, Human Resources Director; and Krista Martini, VP of Finance, CFO - Good Shepherd Community Technology for Excellence
Lynn Haglin, Vice President and KIDS PLUS Director, Northland Foundation AGE to age: bringing generations together The AGE to age project of Northland Foundation brings generations together to learn from one another and address community needs. It works toward creating a fundamental shift in traditional perceptions of older adults from a population of need, vulnerability and net resource consumption to being vital resources for community improvement and enrichment. In nine rural communities, these groups of elders and youth have an equal voice in identifying local needs and devising grassroots solutions, resulting in the development of self-determined plans that join the generations in improving their communities.
Barb Rode, President & CEO of St. Therese, New Hope and Dan Johnson, President & CEO of Catholic Eldercare, Minneapolis Learning Communities An exciting collaboration between the aging services community, Saint Therese of New Hope and Catholic Eldercare, and academia, St. Catherine University, was created to invest and develop nurses with a focus on geriatrics. With focused mentoring and clinical exposure embedded with the course work, the program shows great promise for long term success. The early success of this program has care center staff enjoying a mentoring experience, residents benefitting from increased attention from the students and instructors noting increased confidence in the students.
Vicki Marthaler, Chaplain and Cheryl Krause, Director of Nursing Circles: Circles of Care Surround the Circle of Life
Marvin Plakut, CEO, Episcopal Church Homes of Minnesota, St. Paul; Mike Trossen, President, TWP Architects, Minneapolis; and Mike Benedict, Vice President, Frana Companies, Hopkins Carty Heights: Geothermal Technology Design
Kyle Nordine, President & CEO, Northfield Retirement Commnity; Judy Pavek, Secretary of the Board and Marlene Syverson, Board Member, Kenyon Sunset Home Consulting and Staff Training Collaboration Meet our District Award Winners Caregivers of the Year
Supporting Caregivers of the Year
Volunteer of the Year
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Aging Services of Minnesota 2550 University Avenue West, Suite 350S, St. Paul, MN 55114-1900 Phone: 651.645.4545 Toll Free: 800.462.5368 Fax: 651.645.0002 |
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