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Ceca Named Bronze Medalist in McKnight’s Excellence in Technology Awards
Caregiver Recognition Advocate and Platform Developer Honored for Improving Quality of Care
NEWS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WASHINGTON, D.C. October 4, 2024 – Ceca, a national nonprofit serving senior living, skilled nursing and other care communities across the country, has earned the Bronze Medal in the “Building Bridges” Category for the McKnight’s Excellence in Technology Awards. Ceca’s Recognition and Awards programs, designed to improve both employee and resident experiences in the long-term care sector, were acknowledged through a joint production of McKnight’s Long-Term Care News, McKnight’s Senior Living and McKnight’s Home Care. Ceca was the only nonprofit recipient in the category.
Ceca was named a finalist back in September for its innovative caregiver recognition platform, a uniquely inclusive technology for staff, administrators, corporate leadership, patients, residents, loved ones and guests to submit stories about acts of care from their exceptional caregivers and highlight the integral role that they play in the healthcare experience.
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In addition to its powerful recognition platform and digital interface, Ceca provides its healthcare partners with staff development, best practices and operations and administrative support in running programs optimized for the workforce of today and the future. Ceca’s technology boasts a custom-branded online recognition platform, providing real-time 360 recognition from all stakeholders, free mobile apps, HRIS integration capabilities, digital signage, customization options, cash awards, and program dashboards with built-in surveying capabilities and proprietary metrics to track success.
Most importantly, Ceca’s platform and managed program has had an overwhelmingly positive impact on partner care communities by improving employee engagement, patient or resident satisfaction, caregiver retention, and company culture—all of which lead to increased quality of care and strengthens the organizations that Ceca serves. Ceca’s Partners see consistent increases employee retention rates, with staff recognized through the program in senior living communities exhibiting a 33% higher retention rate than those going unrecognized. Astoundingly, in skilled nursing, homecare and hospice settings, retention for those employees increased by 120% on average.
Nate Hamme, President and Executive Director of Ceca, shared the following statement: “We are absolutely thrilled to be a McKnight’s Excellence in Technology Award Recipient. It means a great deal to me that our team is being recognized for their passion and exceptional work supporting the industry. Our sincere thanks to all of Ceca’s partners who participated in the initiative that made this possible. And I’d like to give special thanks to Providence Place Senior Living, whose success in creating a culture of gratitude has been an inspiration to all of us.”
Providence Place’s retention rate across its seven assisted living communities was 77% for those who were recognized and 93% for Ceca Award recipients–more than double the rate of workers that go unrecognized. Providence Place’s results are a testament to the success of the program in increasing staff retention rates, and the metrics consistently prove significant improvement across all of Ceca’s partners.
Hamme concluded, “Ceca has always emphasized the importance of being acknowledged for going above and beyond in service of others, and our team must admit–it is a special feeling.”
Nominations were judged by an external panel of industry experts. McKnight’s long-running program honors providers and marketplace players that convey how technology has successfully improved care and operations. Gold, Silver and Bronze awards were granted in 16 categories during the 2024 McKnight’s Tech Awards + Summit on October 3.
To see the full list of Award recipients, and for more information about the program, visit www.mcknightstechawards.com.
About Ceca Foundation
Ceca Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit based in Washington, DC, which partners with healthcare communities nationally of all sizes to recognize their exceptional caregivers. Ceca’s mission is to improve the human experience in healthcare by providing a highly affordable, turnkey recognition solution tailored to healthcare providers, using its innovative software, network, managed services, and cash awards. Founded by Matthew and Rosemary Lawlor in 2013, Ceca has publicly recognized more than 50,000 exceptional acts of care and nearly 1,400 caregivers have received a Ceca Award. To date, Ceca has awarded over $500,000 to deserving caregivers.
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Media Contacts:
Michelle Stewart, Chief Operating Officer, 202-804-4275, mstewart@cecafoundation.org
Lori Stewart, Senior Advisor, 202-258-8793, lstewart@cecafoundation.org
With New CEO, D.C. Life Plan Community Knollwood Mulls Next Chapter
August 19, 2024 — Knollwood Life Plan Community was featured in Senior Housing News talking about it’s strategic plan for the future. Ceca’s long-time partner Knollwood, first opened in 1962, recently named Gary Hibbs as CEO who has more than 30 years of senior living experience and previous experience working at Erickson Senior Living and the nation’s largest life plan community, Riderwood. Under Hibbs’ leadership, the community will embark on a master planning effort that will likely include updated infrastructure and more independent living apartments, and he “envisions opportunities” for engagement with the local community to expand resident programming. Read more.
Edenwald Senior Living Partners with Goucher College
July 11, 2024 — Edenwald Senior Living, a Ceca Partner located in Towson, MD, is leading the way with its innovative collaboration with Goucher College, which was featured in McKnight’s Senior Living News. This pioneering partnership places Edenwald at the forefront of the emerging trend of university retirement communities. It builds on Edenwald’s existing commitment to exceptional care by expanding offerings to educational opportunities and enriching experiences, such as access to college classes and study-abroad trips. By joining this select group of university-affiliated retirement communities, Edenwald and Goucher are setting a new standard in senior living, reflecting a growing trend towards educational enrichment and community connection. Read more.
Part 2: Building IMPACTFUL Recognition Programs – Without Breaking the Bank or Staff
July 15, 2024 — The Beryl Institute published a piece written by President and Executive Director, Nate Hamme, on the PX Blog. In Part 2, he addresses common misconceptions about making employee recognition successful in healthcare settings. Employee recognition can often be viewed as time consuming, expensive, and insufficiently impactful. But Ceca’s work has proven, that’s not true. The piece explores how these misconceptions around workforce recognition can be addressed with effective planning and cross-departmental support to efficiently achieve your organization’s goals. Read the full piece.
Part 1: Patient Experience Begins with Employee Experience - The Impact of Recognition Programs
May 30, 2024 — The Beryl Institute published a piece written by President and Executive Director, Nate Hamme, on the PX Blog. In Part I, Nate outlines clear connections in the healthcare experience and dives into why Employee Recognition has a significant positive effect on Employee Experience, which correlates to positive impact on Patient Experience. The piece acknowledges that there are a wealth of strategies for increasing Patient Experience scores and goes deeper into why Employee Recognition is such a core component of Employee Experience. Read the full piece.
Foresight Radio Podcast: Turn Recognition Into Motivation
May 29, 2024 — Rachel Hill from Foresight Radio chats with Nate Hamme in the Season 6 Episode 10 Podcast about fostering a positive workplace culture. They cover: why senior living team members and residents have some of the best and most compelling stories that are rarely heard; how Ceca honors frontline workers; and why it’s so important to recognize your team members and let them know their value and that they are heard. Listen to the podcast.
Renowned Nurse Fighting Human Trafficking Honored with 2024 International Ceca Award
Dr. Francine Bono-Neri Recognized at the UN for Her Extraordinary Impact
NEWS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WASHINGTON, D.C. May 8, 2024 – Ceca Foundation, in partnership with Nurses With Global Impact (NWGI), is pleased to announce Dr. Francine Bono-Neri as recipient of the 2024 International Ceca Award in recognition of compassionate care and excellence in nursing. Dr. Bono-Neri was recognized for a long career as a nurse for over 30 years, but in particular she has devoted the last decade of her life to work as a healthcare provider and advocate for human trafficking victims.
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Among many accomplishments, she co-founded Nurses United Against Human Trafficking (NUAHT) and continues to serve as President for the organization, traveling around the globe presenting, training and advocating on the topic of human trafficking. She also serves as a pediatric and Anti-Human Trafficking Consultant for Lynn’s Warriors Advisory Council, a nonprofit based in New York, that is committed to ending human trafficking and sexual exploitation by raising awareness through media and grassroots mobilization, advocacy, education, and policy. Additionally, Dr. Bono-Neri commits significant time to being a policy advocate and helped to draft state legislation for Anti-Human Trafficking Training for healthcare providers, in addition to serving on the American Hospital Association’s Human Trafficking Advisory Council in 2023. She continues to author numerous publications on the topic, teaches in a variety of academic institutions, and, notably, established The Francine Bono-Neri Scholarship Fund to support and promote graduate-level nurses developing clinical expertise and specializing in research dedicated to the prevention and eradication of human trafficking.
“We are humbled to recognize Dr. Bono-Neri’s outstanding work on an international scale. She truly embodies the caregiving spirit through her dedication and admirable efforts on such a difficult issue. But without a doubt, countless lives have been touched by her work,” said Ceca President Nate Hamme. “Ceca is honored to once again join with our partners at NWGI to recognize outstanding caregiving worldwide and extend our mission beyond our operating footprint in America.”
“Words truly cannot convey the amount of gratitude and humility felt for having been selected as the recipient of the prestigious 2024 International Ceca Award,” commented Dr. Bono-Neri. “The overwhelming impact it made, and its deep meaning, are still to be wholly comprehended by me, as my feet have yet to touch the ground since that Wednesday evening.”
Dr. Bono-Neri received her BSN from Adelphi University, and later received her MA from New York University and Ph.D. from Molloy College. She started her impactful career in healthcare as an RN in Pediatrics at Winthrop University Hospital in Mineola, NY, North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset, NY, and Jacobi Medical Center in the Bronx. She went on to serve in numerous adjunct and faculty teaching roles, and continues to support a new generation of nurses with her wealth of expertise and passion for caregiving and clinical excellence.
“I’m so happy that the Ceca Foundation has joined Nurses With Global Impact, to recognize nurses who are doing extraordinary work and making an impact in global health,” added Deb O’Hara Rusckowski, Founder of NWGI. “We will continue to honor those nurses who elevate the nursing profession through providing quality care in exemplary, often unique, ways. Our partnership with Ceca has only strengthened the caliber level of those we seek to honor.”
Dr. Bono-Neri received the Award, along with a commemorative plaque, in a ceremony held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City, marking the Eighth Annual Celebration of International Nurses Day. The Nurses With Global Impact event recognizes nurses around the world and from different cultures who work toward securing global health and strengthening healthcare systems across the globe.
About Ceca Foundation
Ceca Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit based in Washington, DC, which partners with healthcare communities nationally of all sizes to recognize their exceptional caregivers. Ceca’s mission is to improve the human experience in healthcare by providing a highly affordable, turnkey recognition solution tailored to healthcare providers, using its innovative software, network, managed services, and cash awards. Founded by Matthew and Rosemary Lawlor in 2013, Ceca has publicly recognized more than 50,000 exceptional acts of care and nearly 1,400 caregivers have received a Ceca Award. To date, Ceca has awarded over $500,000 to deserving caregivers.
About Nurses With Global Impact, Inc.
The mission of Nurses With Global Impact is to connect, support and celebrate the work of nurses everywhere, bringing visibility to nurses doing extraordinary work and their projects that make a global impact on healthcare. Nurses With Global Impact shares the experiences and stories of these exceptional nurses on the web and social media, and sponsors International Nurses Day annually to commemorate the birth of nursing’s founder, Florence Nightingale.
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Media Contacts:
Ceca Foundation, Michelle Stewart, Chief Operating Officer, 202-804-4275, mstewart@cecafoundation.org
Nurses With Global Impact, Inc., Deb O’Hara-Rusckowski, President, 978-758-9431, debohara1@aol.com or deb.ohara.rusckowski@gmail.com
Insights on Caregiver Training, Retention, and Organizational Culture
April 24, 2024 — Learn2Care featured Nate Hamme, as part of their Expert Insight series, to shed light on this crucial aspect of caregiving and offer insights into how caregiver agencies can enhance their training efforts and create a more supportive work environment for their caregivers. Read the full interview.
Focus Healthcare Solutions provider wins national award
April 11, 2024 — The Courier Tribune out of Liberty, Missouri published the announcement of National Ceca Award recipient Carla Castellano from Focus Healthcare Solutions. Excerpt: “Carla Castellano, a professional caregiver at Focus Healthcare Solutions, garnered 38 heartfelt nominations for a national award, predominantly from her patients and their loved ones. Described as a genuine ‘angel’ by most that meet her, Castellano’s dedication and care have left an indelible mark. Those letters of appreciation ended up earning Castellano national attention.” Read the piece.
Insights on Recognizing Exceptional Acts of Caregiving
April 2024 — Elena Jonathon at CareSmartz360 talked with Nate Hamme about the fundamental need for care workers to feel appreciated, especially in home care settings. Recognizing exceptional acts of caregiving is not just a pat on the back–it fuels morale, sets standards for care, and uplifts the human spirit. And the benefits of recognition have a trickle down effect that goes far past just the impact to one individual. Read the full piece.
Announcing the 10th Annual National Award Recipients
Program Recognizes Four Healthcare Workers from Around the Country for Exceptional Acts of Care
NEWS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WASHINGTON, D.C. March 14, 2024 – Ceca, a national nonprofit serving healthcare and senior living providers through a managed caregiver recognition program designed to improve employee retention, engagement, and resiliency, announces the 10th annual National Ceca Award recipients. The program recognizes four extraordinary caregivers from across the nation who are selected annually from Ceca’s network of healthcare partners, and from public nominations through a national network of healthcare affiliates and other channels.
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The 2023 recipients are:
- Jacqueline Akansugba, a Geriatric Nurse Assistant at Edenwald Senior Living in Towson, MD. Jacqueline’s outstanding performance, excellent customer service, unwavering dedication to her job, and her love and commitment to residents over her 16-year tenure make her “one of a kind.” Her calm demeanor and respectful communication with residents and families creates a positive environment. Jacqueline goes well beyond her assigned duties, prioritizing the welfare of all residents in her unit. She is wonderful at bringing new employees under her wing and fosters a collaborative care approach with various departments to address individual needs. Notably, Jacqueline’s warm and welcoming attitude earns her praise from team members, residents, family members, and visitors alike. Her pleasant and engaging personality significantly contributes to the thriving community at Edenwald, aligning with the community’s mission to inspire people to live lives of significance.
- Carla Castellano, a Professional Caregiver at Focus Healthcare Solutions in Liberty, MO, garnered 38 heartfelt nominations, predominantly from patients and their loved ones. Described as a genuine “angel” by most that meet her, Carla’s exceptional dedication and care have left an indelible mark. One nomination highlights her going above and beyond for a quadriplegic client, far surpassing that client’s experiences with other caregivers. For another client, Carla transforms the caregiving dynamic, creating joy and promoting fun in therapy routines for the client’s physical and mental well-being. Her positive encouragement and caregiving impact has even empowered another client to walk confidently with only a cane. Beyond her caregiving duties, Carla emerges as a source of emotional support during challenging times, providing a shoulder to cry on after a client tragically lost a son and grandson. Carla is the perfect mix of everything you could want in a caregiver.
- Menbere “Gabbi” Ali Gebral, a Certified Nursing Assistant at Knollwood Life Plan Community in Washington, DC, received heartfelt acknowledgments for her exceptional dedication and warm spirit. Described as having a huge heart, Gabbi goes above and beyond to ensure residents’ comfort and enjoyment, attend to their appearance, and craft delightful treats. A resident’s family expressed gratitude for Gabbi’s kindness, recounting numerous occasions where she helped their mother get to dinner and other events so that she wouldn’t miss out. Gabbi’s compassion is evident in her small gestures, like dressing a resident for a party and making them feel loved and included. Her impact extends well beyond her job role, making everyone feel like part of the community in the artful way she fosters a sense of belonging and friendship. Gabbi’s genuine care and selflessness have left an enduring impression on both residents and staff.
- Paul Borowski, an Environmental Services team member at Middleburg Heights Health and Rehabilitation Center in Middleburg Heights, OH, stands out for his 16 years of service consistently demonstrating values of dedication, compassion, and initiative. His interactions with residents, families, vendors, and staff reflect kindness, consideration, and professionalism. Beyond housekeeping duties, Paul enriches residents’ lives through engaging weekend activities, ranging from Bingo to word games, and one-on-one interactions. He exudes genuine care for residents’ emotional and physical well-being, acting as an integral part of the care team, such as when he saved a life by recognizing the signs of stroke while in a resident’s room. Additionally, his quick response during crises, like a burst pipe, highlights his commitment to community welfare. Paul’s creativity extends to employee engagement, where he has made handcrafted decorations to create a positive work environment. Furthermore, Paul’s humility, professionalism, and dedication further solidify his exceptional role within the community.
National Ceca Award Honorees receive an engraved trophy and a cash award of $2,500. Awards are presented in-person by Ceca’s President Nate Hamme, team members from their organization, and those they care for.
“I say it every year–the most fulfilling part of my job is reading the amazing and inspiring stories of the dedicated and talented individuals who are nominated each year,” noted Nate Hamme, President of Ceca Foundation. “We have read about countless acts of care that, while they may seem ‘small’ on the surface, have made a tremendous difference in people’s lives, which creates a seamless and beneficial healthcare experience. To Jacqueline, Carla, Gabbi and Paul–you have had a profound impact on those in your care and stand out as exceptional caregivers embracing your ability to make a difference. This commitment to service rises above and beyond any job description, and Ceca is humbled to present these awards.”
Ceca also recognized 10 finalists, who, in their own right, deserve recognition for their contributions to their community and those they support:
- Emmanuel Asare, Direct Support Professional at Open Door, Columbus, OH
- Shawanda Burrell, Environmental Services Technician at Keswick Multi-Care Center, Baltimore, MD
- Lauren Harglerode, Resident Life Associate / Med Tech at Providence Place Senior Living, Chambersburg, PA
- Arianna Hasty, Resident Life Associate at Providence Place Senior Living, Collegeville, PA
- Jennifer Koedam, Activities Director at Fellowship Village, Inwood, IA
- Celestine Nwosu, Registered Nurse at Doctors Community Rehabilitation and Patient Care Center, Lanham, MD
- Tim Peaslee, Certified Nursing Assistant at Maine Veterans’ Home Scarborough, ME
- Sharon Puckett, Licensed Practical Nurse at Trilogy Health Services – Harrison Trail Health Campus, Harrison, OH
- Chris Smith, Facilities Maintenance Supervisor at The View Alexandria, VA
- Laura Wicklund, Resident Assistant at Vista Grande Villa, Jackson, MI
The national award program has had a lasting impact on caregivers from across the country. In fact, over the last five years, data shows that employees recognized through the program have significantly higher retention rates, with improvements ranging from 20-120% on average across different care settings, combating the trend of a depreciation of talent within the field.
“It is an incredible feeling to know that a simple, yet authentic and meaningfully conceived award such as ours has an impact on the retention of employees. We are at a critical period in combating healthcare staffing issues, and Ceca is proud to do our part in helping support providers in retaining their best and brightest,” said Hamme
About Ceca FoundationCeca Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit based in Washington, DC, which partners with healthcare communities nationally of all sizes to recognize their exceptional caregivers. Ceca’s mission is to improve the human experience in healthcare by providing a highly affordable, turnkey recognition solution tailored to healthcare providers, using its innovative software, network, managed services, and cash awards. Founded by Matthew and Rosemary Lawlor in 2013, Ceca has publicly recognized more than 50,000 exceptional acts of care and nearly 1,400 caregivers have received a Ceca Award. To date, Ceca has awarded over $500,000 to deserving caregivers.
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Media Contacts:
Michelle Stewart, Chief Operating Officer, 202-804-4275, mstewart@cecafoundation.org
Don Martelli, PR Contact, 617-413-6773, don@prbunker.com
Take Your Employee Appreciation Efforts to the Next Level with the "Science of Recognition"
Winter 2023 — HR Pulse, the preeminent magazine of ASHHRA, published a piece by Nate Hamme about infusing the science of recognition into employee appreciation efforts. Excerpt: “It’s important to remember that there is a critical distinction between appreciating and recognizing your team members. Appreciation is broad and typically comes in the form of SWAG (Stuff We All Get). It may be a bag of candy, a banner adorning a hallway or a templatized letter or email. Recognition, on the other hand, focuses on individuals — their contributions and, when done best, ties their accomplishments to the mission of the organization. Healthcare HR leaders can take it a step further by recognizing how specific acts of care impact the essential edict to provide care to another human being. The direct appeal to purpose can make employee recognition even more powerful caregiver recognition.” Read the full piece.
Ceca Celebrates 10 Years
August 30, 2023 — Last month was Ceca Foundation’s 10th Anniversary. We commemorated the occasion by inviting Ceca’s staff, board, healthcare partners, donors and supporters to come reflect on all we’ve been able to accomplish together—and to talk about our hopes and goals for the years to come. It was only fitting that we use the opportunity to celebrate our successes and swap stories about our experiences through the years.
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We are also excited about our growth as a team. After a decade of pouring his heart and soul into Ceca, our Co-Founder Matthew Lawlor has decided to “fully retire” from day-to-day operations. He will continue advocating for the Foundation as Board Chair, alongside Co-Founder and wife Rosemary and the rest of Ceca’s dedicated Board of Directors. Serving as President and Executive Director, I have been formally elected to the board and will lead executive duties for the organization going forward. Additionally, Michelle Stewart will take on the role of Chief Operating Officer with new administrative and operational responsibilities, having served as Ceca’s Director of Marketing since 2019.
We are excited at the progress we’ve made in our national expansion and are looking forward to what lies ahead. Ceca has been honored to have so many supporters, friends, partners and more along the way that took Matthew and Rosemary’s vision and made it a reality. Those of you reading this right now have been a part of the process and are undoubtedly part of our shared success. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for all you do!
With gratitude,Nate Hamme, President & Executive Director
Ceca Foundation gives rewards to deserving home care workers
August 28, 2023 — Our President and Executive Director, Nate Hamme, recently spoke with McKnight’s Home Care Daily Pulse to talk about how the program works and why it’s so important to honor caregivers, especially in often disjointed home care settings where caregivers serve remotely at sites and don’t often interact with colleagues. The Ceca Award program has ultimately benefitted home care organizations, increasing employee retention by as much as 120% for caregivers that are recognized. Read the full piece.
Nurse Honored with 2023 International Ceca Award
Recognized for His Extraordinary Impact in Kenya and Ecuador
NEWS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WASHINGTON, D.C. May 12, 2023 – Ceca Foundation, in partnership with Nurses With Global Impact, is pleased to announce Ryan Turner as recipient of the 2023 International Ceca Award in recognition of compassionate care and excellence in nursing.
Turner was honored for his exemplary service in both Kenya and Ecuador and, in particular, for the way he engaged both on-the-job and off-the-job with local communities understanding their diverse cultures,
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addressing local community needs, and ensuring positive healthcare outcomes. A maternal and child nursing specialist, Turner has provided nurse education and delivered countless babies, while treating hundreds of people in both Ecuador and Kenya. He also educated local healthcare staff on Emergency Response in Kenya to ensuring quality care when its needed most. When not providing nursing care, he fully engaged in the local communities of both countries, actively volunteering for community projects.
“This is an absolutely amazing nurse,” stated Patricia Sayers, President of Nurses With Global Impact. “In an enthusiastic show of appreciation, the people of Mutomo, Kenya hosted a community-wide celebration for Turner — reportedly the largest on record for any nurse volunteering with the Catholic Medical Mission Board in its 110-year history.” Sayers continued, “Ryan is a prime example of the impact the younger generation of nurses is already making around the world.”
“We are humbled to recognize Nurse Turner for his outstanding work on an international scale. He truly embodies the caregiving spirit through his inclusive approach,” said Ceca Co-Founder Matthew Lawlor.
Nate Hamme, President of Ceca Foundation, added, “Ceca is honored to once again partner with Nurses With Global Impact to recognize outstanding caregiving worldwide and extend our mission beyond our operating footprint in America.”
Turner received a commemorative plaque and a cash Ceca Award of $1,000 in a ceremony held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City, marking the Seventh Annual Celebration of International Nurses Day. The Nurses With Global Impact event recognizes nurses around the world from different cultures who work toward securing global health and strengthening healthcare systems across the globe.
Turner was selected by the Nurses With Global Impact’s Planning Committee and Judges Review Panel, and confirmed by Ceca Foundation. The International Ceca Award recipient was chosen for this highest honor from the 13 exceptional nurses that were selected to receive the “2023 Inspiring Global Nurse Award” at the same event.
About Ceca Foundation
Ceca Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit based in Washington, DC, which partners with hospitals and healthcare communities in the U.S. to recognize their exceptional caregivers. Ceca improves caregiver engagement and the patient experience by providing healthcare providers with a highly affordable, turnkey recognition solution consisting of its innovative software platform, managed services, and cash awards. Since 2013, Ceca has recognized over 42,000 exceptional acts of care and more than 1,000 caregivers who received a Ceca Award.
About Nurses With Global Impact, Inc.
The mission of Nurses With Global Impact is to connect, support and celebrate the work of nurses everywhere, bringing visibility to nurses doing extraordinary work and their projects that make a global impact on healthcare. Nurses With Global Impact shares the experiences and stories of these exceptional nurses on the web and social media, and sponsors International Nurses Day annually to commemorate the birth of nursing’s founder, Florence Nightingale.
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Media Contacts:
Ceca Foundation – Michelle Stewart, Director of Marketing, 202-719-8042, mstewart@cecafoundation.org
Nurses With Global Impact, Inc. – Patricia Sayers, President, patricia@nurseswithglobalimpact.org
Employee Appreciation Is Not the Same as Caregiver Recognition
May 9, 2023 — Ceca Foundation President Nate Hamme wrote an article for Provider Magazine detailing the differences between employee appreciation, employee recognition, and healthcare worker recognition. Instead of pizza parties or generic employee anniversary gifts, caregiver recognition is authentic and impactful—and can be a key driver of safety, quality of care, and satisfaction for both employees and those they care for. This distinct difference between more general appreciation and recognition programs is one care communities should be mindful of in their approach. Read the full piece.
Announcing the 2022 National Ceca Award Recipients
Ceca Foundation Honors Four Healthcare Workers Nationally for Exceptional Acts of Care
NEWS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WASHINGTON, D.C. March 1, 2023 – Ceca Foundation is pleased to recognize four extraordinary caregivers from around the nation with its ninth annual National Ceca Awards. Honorees are selected annually for this highest honor from Ceca’s network of healthcare partners.
This year, for the first time ever, Ceca also sourced nominations from the public to broaden recognition efforts across the nation to honor more caregivers. Three National Ceca Award Honorees were chosen from Ceca Partners, and one Honoree was chosen from the open call. The recipients are:
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- Ashley Crawley, a Professional Caregiver at Focus Healthcare Solutions in Kansas City, MO. Ashley was recognized for her professionalism and integrity, and, above all else, her ability to inspire people to be their best self. As an in-home caregiver, she cares for multiple clients that are aging, living with illness, or have physical, intellectual or developmental disabilities. Her care is a key reason her clients can thrive in their own homes. She assists with everything from meal prep to helping clients deal with hoarding behaviors, but her winning personality and ability to connect with people are profound. Through her innate ability to befriend her clients and give them purpose, Ashley makes a world of difference in the lives of those she cares for. One family member likened finding Ashley to winning a “Golden Ticket,” because she’s just that rare.
- Jill Magjuka-Egan, a Life Enrichment Assistant at Artis Senior Living located in Evesham, NJ outside Philadelphia. Jill was honored for going above and beyond to enrich the lives of residents. On Mother’s Day, she came in on her day off to support an event and ensure all residents participated. But it’s her caring nature and willingness to do the ‘small’ things that make such a difference. On one occasion, knowing that a particular resident becomes easily agitated, she started singing his favorite songs to calm him and ease the transition to another area of the community. And her compassion doesn’t stop at residents either. Multiple times she has recorded messages from the residents and dropped off goodies for sick team members. She truly embodies a caring spirit, and as one nominator put it, “Her heart is gold!”
- Mesfin Desta, an Environmental Services Team Leader at Goodwin House Alexandria in Alexandria, VA. Mesfin received the award for going outside of his role to connect with and help residents. He earned the nickname “Running Man” due to his characteristically quick response to residents’ calls, and he is often seen rushing to help residents with groceries, adjusting rooms, or simply providing companionship and conversation. With his calm and caring demeanor, Mesfin has earned the trust of many residents and their loved ones, who often request him by name to assist during transitions between levels of care. When a resident that he was very close to was hospitalized for an extended period, Mesfin visited him in the hospital and offered his support. It is evident that his warm smile and caring attitude have endeared him to every resident and team member he encounters.
- Stephanie Banks, Licensed Practical Nurse at Hattie Larlham in Northeast Ohio. Stephanie was honored for her selflessness, compassion, and positive attitude and for always putting residents’ and co-workers’ needs before her own. She excels beyond her normal duties at five Intermediate Care Facility group homes and covers extra shifts when needed. A team member at Hattie Larlham for over 19 years, her commitment has never wavered, even during the pandemic. She volunteers to work at every home with a Covid-positive resident, picks up many double shifts, and never forgets to bring favorite snacks and extra items she purchases to boost morale. Stephanie provides outstanding service and commitment to ensure the health, safety, and quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Each National Ceca Award Honoree receives an engraved commemorative trophy and a cash award of $2,500. Most importantly, all are celebrated by those they care for, their fellow team members, and Ceca Foundation at in-person celebrations.
“Every year we are inspired by stories featuring hundreds of phenomenal caregivers and the profound impact they have on those they care for,” said Nate Hamme, President of Ceca Foundation. “It is not just heroic acts, but ‘small’ acts of care that can make a tremendous difference in people’s lives. Stephanie, Ashley, Mesfin, and Jill stand out as caregivers that have truly embraced their ability to make a difference, and their commitment to service rises above and beyond anything in a job description.”
The Foundation also recognized 14 finalists:
- Amina Kanu, CNA at Goodwin House Bailey’s Crossroads, Falls Church, VA
- Deborah Barnett, LPN-Long Term Care at Carroll Manor, Washington, DC
- Jorge Castillo, Private Caregiver, Menlo Park, CA
- Julie Ehrlich, Senior Care Manager at Arosa, Nashville, TN
- Kevin Harris, Caregiver at Arosa, Houston, TX
- Kimberly Dalman, CNA at Kingston at Dupont, Fort Wayne, IN
- Lisa Hargrove, GNA at Sterling Care Riverside, Belcamp, MD
- Olivia Muro, Physical Therapist at Goodwin House Home and Community-Based Services, VA
- Teresa Stern, Resident Life Associate at Providence Place Senior Living, Pottsville, PA
- Tracy Blanding, Activities Assistant at Edenwald Senior Living, Towson, MD
- Troy Kelly, Driver at Knollwood Life Plan Community, Washington, DC
- Vandella Massenburg-Bey, Social Services Director at Fayette Health & Rehabilitation, Baltimore, MD
- Wendy Kyei, LPN Supervisor at Heinzerling, Columbus, OH
- Wendy Studtmann, Physical Therapist at Anne Grady Services, Holland, OH
About Ceca FoundationCeca Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit based in Washington, DC, which partners with healthcare communities nationally of all sizes to recognize their exceptional caregivers. Ceca’s mission is to improve the human experience in healthcare by providing a highly affordable, turnkey recognition solution tailored to healthcare providers, using its innovative software, network and managed services, and cash awards. Founded by Matthew and Rosemary Lawlor in 2013, Ceca has publicly recognized more than 40,000 exceptional acts of care and almost 1,300 caregivers who have received a Ceca Award.
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Media Contacts:
Michelle Stewart, Director of Marketing, 202-719-8042, mstewart@cecafoundation.org
Lori Stewart, Senior Advisor, 202-258-8793, lstewart@cecafoundation.org
Nurse Receives State and National Recognition for Excellence in Caregiving
February 10, 2023 — 2022 National Ceca Award recipient, Stephanie Banks, was featured in an article by the Akron Beacon Journal on why she received the recognition for her excellence and compassion in caring for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities at Hattie Larlham. Read the full piece.
Arosa Expands, Honors Caregivers
January 10, 2023 — Ceca Healthcare Partner Arosa, an integrated care management provider, was featured in an article in HomeCare Magazine about their marked expansion and success in honoring their careworkers. Read the full piece.
Honoring Caregivers that Serve Veterans
November 11, 2022 — ABC WJLA 7 news in Washington, DC did a special Veteran’s Day story focused on the story of Mary Lawlor and the founding of Ceca Foundation. Co-Founder Matt Lawlor’s mother found herself at Knollwood Life Plan Community in her later years and the compassionate care she received and friendships she formed were the nexus behind Ceca’s founding. Watch the video (right) to hear the full story and interviews with Matt and Knollwood’s Col. Paul Bricker.
Medical Care Facility Awarded Grant
November 2, 2022 — Oceana County Press covered our newly launched Ceca Award program with Oceana County Medical Care Facility in Hart, Michigan, thanks to a generous grant from the Edward N. and Della L. Thome Memorial Foundation. Read the full piece.
Excerpt: “‘We’re thrilled to have been selected to receive the Ceca Award program… Recognizing caregivers is an important part of our culture and aligns directly with our mission and person-centered care approach,” said Oceana County Medical Care Facility Administrator Kory Hansen. “We’re excited to launch the program and start hearing more heartwarming stories of the positive impact our caregivers have on our patients and residents.'”
Strategies to Boost Staff and Resident Morale in Senior Care Settings
October 18, 2022 — Ceca President Nate Hamme was quoted in an article for i Advance Senior Care magazine on his thoughts about what healthcare employers can do to boost staff morale. Read the full piece.
Excerpt: “Recognition and acknowledgement of quality work play a key role in staff morale. ‘We’re focused on helping organizations develop more opportunities and better ways to highlight exceptional acts of care from their team members,’ explains Hamme. ‘Many employees working in the healthcare field, and senior care in particular, develop fulfillment and resiliency from the feeling that they are improving people’s lives.'”
Ceca Foundation Elects O’Connell to Board of Directors
Nonprofit Executive Translates Experience into Recognizing Caregivers
NEWS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WASHINGTON, D.C. October 12, 2022 – Ceca Foundation elected C. Lynn O’Connell to its Board of Directors, effective October 3, 2022.
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O’Connell is an accomplished and visionary executive director with over 20 years of success leading social entrepreneurship initiatives and driving nonprofits to the next level of growth and long-term sustainability. She is a seasoned nonprofit leader with extensive experience in administration, fundraising, and program management, and most recently served as Executive Director of Computer CORE, a nonprofit that helps low-income adults develop life skills and technology proficiency. She also has an intimate understanding of working with caregivers in the healthcare industry, having previously served as Executive Director at the Physician Assistant Foundation and as Vice President at Americans for Medical Progress Educational Foundation.
“We are thrilled to have Lynn O’Connell join the Board,” said Matthew P. Lawlor, Co-Founder of Ceca Foundation and Board Chair. “She is an accomplished business leader with a passion for nonprofits. Her experience with workforce development and fundraising makes her a needed voice and fantastic complement to Ceca’s talented Board.”
“I’m honored to join the Ceca Board,” stated O’Connell. “I am particularly impressed by their nine-year track record recognizing caregivers, both clinical and support staff for the caregiving parts of their jobs. It takes teamwork to build trust and inclusion in a healthcare facility.”
O’Connell is currently appointed a Fulbright Specialist, leveraging her expertise in public administration, civil society, and immigration, and she previously served as a U.S. Diplomat. She earned her Master of Arts in Philanthropy from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, an Executive Certificate in Nonprofit Leadership from Duke University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Lipscomb University.
About Ceca FoundationCeca Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit based in Washington, DC, which partners with hospitals and healthcare communities in the U.S. to recognize their exceptional caregivers. Ceca improves caregiver and patient experience by providing healthcare providers with a highly affordable, turnkey recognition solution consisting of its innovative software platform, managed services, and cash awards. Since 2013, Ceca has recognized over 35,000 exceptional acts of care and 1,000 caregivers who received a Ceca Award.
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Media Contacts:
Michelle Stewart, Director of Marketing, 202-719-8042, mstewart@cecafoundation.org
Lori Stewart, Senior Advisor, 202-258-8793, lstewart@cecafoundation.org
The Labor Shortage & The 5 Things We Must Do To Attract & Retain Great Talent
July 27, 2022 — Ceca President Nate Hamme was interviewed by Phil La Duke from Authority Magazine about his thoughts about what healthcare communities can do to attract and retain great talent. Read the full piece.
Excerpt: “In today’s environment, competitive wages are the bare minimum expectation for employers. Employees are now looking for flexibility, but more importantly, they want to be treated as human beings… If you don’t take the time to celebrate the achievements and highlight what people are doing, those employees won’t have that sense of loyalty or feel like they’re part of a team. Slow down for five minutes each day and honor the work being done and celebrate the successes.”
Announcing the 2022 International Ceca Award
Ceca Foundation Honors Nurse for Extraordinary Work with Ukrainian Refugees
NEWS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WASHINGTON, D.C. May 17, 2022 – Ceca Foundation, in partnership with Nurses With Global Impact, is pleased to announce Dominic Figueroa as recipient of the 2022 International Ceca Award in recognition of compassionate care and excellence in nursing.
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Dominic Figueroa is being honored for his selfless love and empathy in rushing to Poland to help Ukrainian refugees coming across the border. He was serving as an orthopedic nurse at a hospital in California when the conflict began. He soon made the decision to take an emergency sabbatical, then traveled at his own expense to where he felt he was most needed. Figueroa grew up in a family that instilled a spirit of service to others, and he has carried that value throughout his life. He previously worked in youth ministry before completing his MSN at the University of San Francisco which launched him into his current career.
“Mr. Figueroa embodies the true ideal of a nurse dedicated to serving others. He is sincere in his actions, devoted to those he cares for, and is a genuine role model for future generations of nurses,” said Deborah O’Hara-Rusckowski, Founder of Nurses With Global Impact.
“We are humbled to be in the company of so many deserving nurses making a huge impact on a global scale,” commented Ceca Co-Founder Matthew Lawlor, who presented the award to Figueroa along with Nathan Hamme, President of Ceca Foundation. “Ceca is honored to partner with Nurses With Global Impact to extend our mission beyond our operating footprint in America to recognize outstanding caregiving worldwide, and there is no better example than Mr. Figueroa.”
Figueroa received a commemorative plaque and a cash award of $1,000 that was presented at a special ceremony on May 13 during the sixth annual International Nurses Day Celebration at Port Liberte, NJ nearby the Statue of Liberty. The international event recognizes nurses from around the world from different cultures and venues that are working toward securing global health and strengthening healthcare systems across all communities near and far.
Figueroa was selected by the Nurses With Global Impact Planning Committee and confirmed by the Nursing Judges Review Panel and Ceca Foundation. The International Ceca Award recipient was chosen for this highest honor from the 13 exceptional nurses that were selected to receive the “2022 Inspiring Global Nurse Award” at the same event.
UPDATE: Figueroa was also interviewed on Fox News in March of 2022 discussing his efforts providing humanitarian aid and relief to Ukrainians coming across the border to Poland.
About Ceca FoundationCeca Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit based in Washington, DC, which partners with hospitals and healthcare communities in the U.S. to recognize their exceptional caregivers. Ceca improves caregiver and patient experience by providing healthcare providers with a highly affordable, turnkey recognition solution consisting of its innovative software platform, managed services, and cash awards. Since 2013, Ceca has recognized 35,000 exceptional acts of care and 1,000 caregivers who received a Ceca Award.
About Nurses With Global Impact, Inc.The mission of Nurses With Global Impact is to connect, support and celebrate the work of nurses everywhere, bringing visibility to nurses doing extraordinary work and their projects that make a global impact on healthcare. Nurses With Global Impact shares the experiences and stories of these exceptional nurses on the web and social media, and sponsors International Nurses Day annually to commemorate the birth of nursing’s founder, Florence Nightingale.
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Media Contacts:
Ceca Foundation, Michelle Stewart, Director of Marketing, 202-719-8042, mstewart@cecafoundation.org
Nurses With Global Impact, Inc., Deborah O’Hara-Rusckowski, Founder, 978-758-9431, deb@globalstrategicoperatives.org
Senior Care Needs a Business Model Overhaul
April 2022 — Ceca President Nate Hamme shared his thoughts in a Seniors Housing Business article on what steps need to be taken to ensure that caregivers can be retained, engaged, and supported so that the industry can move forward in a positive way. Read the full piece.
Excerpt: “In many ways, the long-term care business model is broken. Organizations need to act now, and act aggressively. Somewhat buried, and often misunderstood, in the Biden administration’s statement was incentivizing ‘the resident experience, as well as how well facilities retain staff.’ With this guidance, there are more immediate strategies operators can implement to improve their situations.”
Art Taylor of BBB Wise Giving Alliance Interviews Matt Lawlor for Heart of Giving Podcast
Ceca Foundation Announces Caregiver of the Year Awards
Healthcare Workers Honored Nationally for Acts of Exceptional Care
NEWS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WASHINGTON, D.C. March 2, 2022 – Ceca Foundation is pleased to recognize three extraordinary health caregivers with its eighth annual Ceca Caregiver of the Year Award. They are:
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- April Eckman, a Patient and Guest Representative at Baptist Health Medical Center-Conway in AR. She was honored for going out of her way for an elderly couple who arrived a day early for a procedure. With nowhere to stay, April found them a hotel and led them there that evening, since they were unfamiliar with the area and uncomfortable driving. She then showed up the next morning to get them back to the hospital and even took time to print directions to make it back home. April personifies Baptist Health’s mission of treating everyone with integrity, respect, and compassion.
- Don Okusaga, a Licensed Practical Nurse at Stoddard Baptist Nursing Home in Washington, DC. He was honored for all the special acts he performs for residents everyday – from getting snacks after hours; to serving food; to encouraging reluctant residents to go to bed on time. Call lights seem to turn on after Don has clocked out for the day, but he doesn’t hesitate and does all of it with a smile. He has a great sense of humor and even sings and dances for the residents, participating in fashion and talent shows. He says yes to pretty much everything – as long as “it’s for the residents!”
- Rick Price, a Chaplain at West Virginia Caring in Elkins, WV. He was recognized for his peaceful demeanor and comfort provided to hospice patients, families, and the staff who work with him. He can be counted on for support, any time of the day or night. He even volunteered to extend his service area to cover for another chaplain with travel distances up to 200 miles away. Yet, he makes time for his patients, even sometimes texting spiritual verses so an RN can read to a patient needing comfort. He often sends emails and texts from the road to bring peace to staff and family members. He does all this with good humor, selflessness, and a gracious attitude.
Each Caregiver of the Year Awardee receives an engraved commemorative trophy and a cash award of $2,500. Most importantly, all are celebrated by their fellow team members, patients, families, and the Ceca team at their respective healthcare communities and nationally.
“Each of these caregivers has made a profound impact on those they serve,” said Nate Hamme, President of Ceca Foundation. “Often the ‘small’ acts of care make a big difference. For April, Don, and Rick, the simple act of personally connecting with those in their community is inspiring and transforms people’s lives.”
Ceca’s Caregiver of the Year Award Recipients are selected for this highest honor from the pool of Ceca Award Honorees over the prior year from its entire network of healthcare partners. From this elite group, the Foundation also recognized nine finalists:
- Modupe Akinola, LPN/Vocational Nurse at Stoddard Baptist Global Care, Washington, DC
- Kenesha Beckford, Caregiver at Arosa-Chicagoland, IL
- George Bridges, Maintenance Technician at Goodwin House, Alexandria, VA
- Casey Caradine, Office Representative at Baptist Health Medical Center-Hot Spring County, AR
- Devante Foreman, Housekeeping and Resident Life Associate at Providence Place Senior Living, Chambersburg, PA
- Stephanie Hartwick, Office Nurse LPN at Baptist Health Medical Center-Heber Springs, AR
- Penny Isaac, Caregiver at Arosa, Houston, TX
- Michelle Stull, Housekeeping Manager at Providence Place Senior Living, Chambersburg, PA
- Charita Wells, Activities Assistant at Carroll Manor Nursing Home, Washington, DC
About Ceca Foundation
Ceca Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit based in Washington, D.C., which partners with healthcare communities nationally of all sizes to recognize their exceptional caregivers. Ceca’s mission is to improve the patient experience by providing a highly affordable, turnkey recognition solution tailored to healthcare providers, using its innovative software, network and managed services, and cash awards. Founded by Matthew and Rosemary Lawlor in 2013, Ceca has publicly recognized nearly 35,000 exceptional acts of care and over 1,000 caregivers who have received a Ceca Award. For more information, watch a brief introductory video and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.
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Media Contacts:
Michelle Stewart, Director of Marketing, 202-719-8042, mstewart@cecafoundation.org
Lori Stewart, Senior Advisor, 202-258-8793, lstewart@cecafoundation.org
National Caregivers Day: La Quinta caregiver wins industry award for going 'above and beyond'
February 18, 2022 — Caregiver and Ceca Award Honoree Denise Cox was recently interviewed by The Desert Sun. Cox works as a lifecare manager at Arosa and has a passion for serving others that comes from her unique story and background. Read the full piece.
Excerpt: “Cox has taken her role as a care manager seriously, taking ice cream to seniors in the middle of the night and buying groceries or running other errands even when she isn’t technically at work. ‘She really gives more than 100% to clients and to caregivers,’ said Leslie Saller, office manager at Arosa in Palm Desert. Saller described her coworker as ‘personable.’ ‘When a client calls and they’re having a birthday or anniversary or something is going on, she’s the first to be there, night or day, 24/7,’ Saller said. Cox makes them feel heard and cared for — and they are.”
West Virginia Caregiver Honored with Ceca Caregiver of the Year Award
February 16, 2022 — CBS WDTV 5 in West Virginia featured Ceca Caregiver of the Year Award recipient Rick Price, a chaplain at our partner West Virginia Caring. Rick was honored in a surprise celebration on Wednesday for his dedication in providing support and comfort to hospice patients, their families, and his fellow team members. He can be counted on for support, any time of the day or night, even hoping in the car to drive hundreds of miles to get where he is needed. Watch the video to hear from Rick and Ceca President Nate Hamme.
Second Chapters: How I Reinvented Myself In The Second Chapter Of My Life
February 6, 2022 — Pirie Jones Grossman, from Authority Magazine, sat down with Co-Founder Matthew Lawlor to interview him as part of a series called “Second Chapters” where successful people who reinvented themselves can share their stories and help empower others. Read the full interview.
Excerpt: “Keep going and be resilient. My wife and I are now blessed with the means to form a charity. It wasn’t always that way. Persistence counted a lot. Perhaps I was just too stubborn to quit. But in reflection, had I been simply stubborn, as opposed to resilient, we would never have made the mid-course changes to succeed. Finally, with every crisis there is a silver lining. Let that be your ticket to optimism, and a willingness to adjust your course along the way as needed. The last two years of pandemic have provided many examples. For Ceca, we had to pivot from in-person awards at our healthcare facilities to doing it all virtually. I didn’t like it. But what we lost in intimacy during the pandemic, we now have complemented with remote enhancements.”
Labor Shortage in Healthcare
January 19, 2022 — ABC 7 NEWS in Washington, DC featured our partner Goodwin House and highlighted how they have thrived during a time of chronic staffing shortages through some of their innovative practices. We’ve worked with the team at Goodwin House since 2018 to recognize, reward, and inspire their team members providing care to residents, home health and hospice families. The Ceca Award has become part of their workplace culture fabric. And the message is clear: Employee appreciation efforts improve retention and promote resilience in care teams! Watch the video to hear from Ceca President, Nate Hamme, and Goodwin House Chief People Officer, Fran Casey.
Ceca Foundation Elects Two Hospital Executives to its Board
Erwin and Grenaldo Commit Their Expertise to Recognizing Caregivers
NEWS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WASHINGTON, D.C. January 11, 2022 – Ceca Foundation elected Duane L. Erwin and Paul R. Grenaldo to its Board of Directors, effective January 1, 2022.
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“We are delighted to have both Duane and Paul join our Board,” said Matthew P. Lawlor, Co-Founder and Executive Chair. “Both are accomplished business leaders with a zeal for compassionate caregiving. Moreover, they understand that an engaged workforce is key to providing patients with an exceptional experience. Their success in leading large healthcare systems makes them ideal additions to Ceca’s Board.”
Duane Erwin is a healthcare system executive with 40 years of multi-disciplinary leadership experience in operational-clinical quality improvement, physician integration, and strategic growth. Erwin recently served as EVP Operations at the 11,000-employee Baptist Health System of Arkansas. After starting his career as an attorney, his interest turned to hospital marketing, then to strategy. He later served as a CEO or COO for five hospitals. “I’ve seen Ceca Foundation up close and in action in several diverse settings,” said Erwin. “While they have innovative technology and generous cash awards for outstanding caregivers, their power stems from their comprehensive services and a passion for Ceca’s charitable mission.”
Paul Grenaldo joins Ceca’s Board offering 35 years of healthcare executive leadership. He recently served as President of Doctors Community Hospital (Lanham, MD), where he led the hospital to consistent profitability and was The Joint Commission’s top performer on key quality core measures for three consecutive years. Previously, he served as Chief Operating Officer of Providence Hospital (Washington, D.C.), a 400-bed hospital with a nationally recognized prenatal care program. “Ceca gets right at the heart of successful caregiving,” asserts Grenaldo. “The Ceca Award Program includes all employees in a healthcare facility – both clinical and supporting workers – who, as a result, feel part of a team focused on a patient or resident.”
Nate S. Hamme, President of Ceca Foundation said, “Paul and Duane are proven leaders who know the value of investing in their team members. Our staff is excited to work with them. Their passion for healthcare and insider perspective on how employee appreciation is critical in engaging and retaining workers will be a tremendous asset.”
About Ceca Foundation
Ceca Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit based in Washington, D.C., which partners with healthcare communities nationally of all sizes to recognize their exceptional caregivers. Ultimately, Ceca’s mission is to improve the patient experience by providing a highly affordable, turnkey recognition solution tailored to healthcare providers, using its innovative software, network and managed services, and cash awards. Founded by Matthew and Rosemary Lawlor in 2013, Ceca has publicly recognized nearly 35,000 exceptional acts of care and over 1,000 caregivers who have received a Ceca Award. For more information, watch a brief introductory video and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.
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Media Contacts:
Michelle Stewart, Director of Marketing, 202-719-8042, mstewart@cecafoundation.org
Lori Stewart, Senior Advisor, 202-258-8793, lstewart@cecafoundation.org
Employee Appreciation is a Game-Changer in Health Care Staffing
November 10, 2021 — President Nate Hamme authored a thought leadership piece for Home Care Magazine on the concept of retention-through-recognition, an extremely cost-effective addition to employee benefits packages to recruit, retain and engage employees. The article also quotes Ari Medoff, CEO of Arosa, one of Ceca’s Healthcare Partners. Read the full article.
Excerpt: “Health care organizations were already experiencing pressing labor shortages well before the pandemic… Facing this formidable challenge, homecare organizations and hospital systems are ramping up hiring, and many are throwing in special perks… Here’s the elephant in the room: Companies wouldn’t have to focus so much on hiring if they were able to minimize turnover. So why aren’t organizations talking more about retention? Why are so many throwing their hands in the air and assuming that large-scale turnover is inevitable? Perhaps it’s because health care industry insiders tend to look down on a powerful tool at their disposal: Recognition.”
Healthcare Employees Could Hold the Key to a Revealing New Data Set
September 6, 2021 — Co-Founder and Executive Chair Matthew Lawlor authored a thought leadership piece for Modern Healthcare on tapping into a rarely used perspective from employees that Ceca has deemed the cNPS or “caregiver Net Promoter Score” as a proxy for patient satisfaction and quality of care assessment, which can be used to help document, measure and set strategic goals. Read the full article.
Excerpt: “Employees are more keenly interested in the viability and reputation of their healthcare facilities than most patients. Plus, they know more than patients because they have daily, long-term, behind-the-curtain perspectives. In other words, when someone who knows how the sausage is made recommends the sausage or does not, it just means more… I firmly believe those healthcare leaders who seek employee insights through tools like the cNPS will be able to guide their organizations more strategically and sensibly to improved safety, better patient outcomes and overall excellence.”
Immigrants and America’s Healthcare Labor Shortage
August 30, 2021 — President Nate Hamme authored a guest column for McKnight’s Senior Living News on the importance of immigrant caregivers in our American healthcare system, and stressed how important it is to recognize their contributions and to have meaningful immigration policy, especially with the labor shortage the industry is facing. Read the full article.
Excerpt: “Fortunately, there’s a renewed enthusiasm to help bring talented and driven immigrants and other qualified healthcare workers to our hospitals, skilled nursing and other long-term care communities… It is not surprising that a study by Leah Zallman in Health Affairs uncovered that 28% of the direct-care workforce and 31% of home health aides are born outside the United States. Noncitizen immigrants make up 5% of the U.S. population but account for 11% of home-healthcare workers and an astonishing 26% of direct-care workers.”
Matt Lawlor Honored as "Top 100 Healthcare Leaders"
July 22, 2021 — Co-Founder Matthew P. Lawlor was honored with the “Top 100 Healthcare Leaders” Award from IFAH — International Forum On Advancements In Healthcare for his exceptional contributions to the healthcare industry. Read the press release.
Excerpt: “His impactful projects over the years and his dedication to serving the healthcare sector led to his nomination and his selection for the prestigious honor… When asked about his company’s future goals, initiatives, and motivations, he commented, ‘We are doing something different [beyond our cash awards]. Our team helps healthcare communities with support services, software, and the cultivation of best practices in patient care. We each get personal satisfaction out of our work and vision to give back.'”
Ceca Award Recipient Celebrates 25th Anniversary of Caring for Seniors
June 10, 2021 — CBS WUSA 9 in Washington, DC highlighted Ceca Award recipient, Patricia Murray, from our healthcare partner Ascension Living Carroll Manor. Patricia recently celebrated her 25th work anniversary, where she has dedicated her life to making it a happy home for the senior residents who live there. She also received a special message from Sister Carol Keehan (named one of the “100 Most Influential People in the World” by TIME Magazine) who was instrumental in pulling Patricia from being homeless on the streets to a place where she has positively impacted so many other lives. See more or watch the video.
National Award Spotlights Overlooked, Yet Critical, Caregivers
May 18, 2021 — ABC 2 WMAR in Baltimore, MD highlighted national Annual Ceca Award recipient, Margo Buda, from our healthcare partner Knollwood Life Plan Community. As Clinical Director, Margo’s last year has been defined by her leadership in running the on-site COVID-19 testing center and keeping residents and staff safe. The story also featured our co-founders, Matthew and Rosemary Lawlor, giving some background on the impact the Ceca Award has on caregivers. See more or watch the video.
Goodwin House Featured in the Washington Post
September 20, 2021 — The Washington Post published a story about Ceca Partner Goodwin House, a senior Life Plan community, focused on what a group of residents did for several of the caregivers at the community that were on a path to becoming American citizens. Read the full piece.
Excerpt: “One of every four workers in long-term care facilities are immigrants. They are about 17 percent of the nation’s entire medical workforce… And even more are needed, especially as we plunge deeper into the pandemic and the health care workforce becomes more strained…So they decided to help in the best way they could, with one resident, Rita Siebenaler, leading an effort that turned nearly 90 employees of the Goodwin Houses in Baileys Crossroads and in Alexandria into nearly 90 new American citizens.”
Showing Appreciation for Healthcare Workers is Ceca's Mission
June 2021 — Falls Church News-Press interviewed President, Nate Hamme, to discuss how Ceca’s recognition programs make a difference in healthcare settings and the direct impact it has on patient experience and employee engagement. Read the full piece.
Excerpt: “As the Covid-19 pandemic places an increased strain on healthcare professionals and caregivers, the recognition of their work is more important than ever. The burnout and turnover of those in this field is high at present, and for understandable reasons… ‘There is no such thing as too much recognition for people who do the right thing,’ said Hamme.”
Nate Hamme Interviewed by HomeCare
May 4, 2021 — HomeCare Magazine recently sat down with Ceca President, Nate Hamme, to discuss the benefits of employee recognition in all healthcare settings. Read the full piece.
Excerpt: “As the COVID-19 public health emergency continues to put a strain on the health care ecosystem—from caring for the sick to coordinating vaccine distribution—health care workers across the continuum of care have shined. But when a caregiver goes above and beyond, it’s important to recognize their efforts in tangible ways. There’s a nonprofit that can help with that—awarding cash to caregivers in recognition of their efforts.”
Ceca Foundation Announces Annual Caregiver Award Honorees
Nursing and Hospital Caregivers Recognized with the Ceca Award
NEWS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WASHINGTON, DC, February 25, 2021 — In a year like no other, when healthcare workers across the country made truly heroic personal sacrifices to contain Covid-19, Ceca Foundation is especially pleased to honor the following extraordinary health caregivers with its 2020 Annual Ceca Awards:
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- Melissa Amburn is a Receptionist at Providence Place in Pottsville, Pennsylvania, a senior living facility offering independent living, personal and memory care. Melissa was recognized for her kindness, positivity, and her bright, engaging demeanor. One standout act of care was the surprise going away breakfast she organized for a resident. On her own time, she created invitations, organized the meal, and bought a memory book for all the resident’s friends to write in. She then offered to help the resident shovel snow and run errands after she returned home. A family member of the same resident told stories about how Melissa was always running to help her mother – to find the off button when her music is too loud, remove wrappers from a package, or help find her phone when it was buried. The resident calls Melissa “Happy Feet” for always taking the time to run to the rescue and help out.
- Margo Buda is the Clinical Director at Knollwood Life Plan Community in Washington, DC, a community serving military officers and government officials and their families. Margo was honored for her exceptional leadership, initiative, judgment and determination to protect residents during the Covid pandemic. Margo’s focus on Covid testing led her to establish the timely Knollwood Abbott Rapid-Now Covid Testing Laboratory. As laboratory manager, Margo established procedures for completing on-site rapid Covid testing. She oversaw 7,000 tests and served tirelessly to educate and inform staff and residents on how to protect themselves from contracting the virus. While Covid infection rates in the D.C. region were skyrocketing, her effective leadership and discipline resulted in more than 150 days in mid-2020 with zero occurrences of new Covid cases in the entire community, a truly magnificent performance.
Each of the Annual Ceca Award Honorees receives a monetary award of $2,500 and a commemorative trophy, and all are celebrated by their fellow staff members, patients, families, and the Ceca team at their respective care communities.
Ceca Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, partners with healthcare communities to recognize their outstanding caregivers and improve quality of care. Ceca uses proven recognition techniques and innovative technology to celebrate high-touch acts of care – providing the propriety software and managing its partners’ recognition program, while underwriting monetary awards for caregivers.
To build teamwork, all staff are considered caregivers, both clinical and non-clinical, and nominations across departments is common. Caregivers are nominated by their peers, patients, residents and families throughout the year, who cite the nominee’s exemplary caregiver values demonstrated and the exceptional acts of care. Selections are made monthly or quarterly by an independent selection panel, and caregivers are honored publicly. To date, Ceca has recognized over 25,000 acts of care since the program launched in 2014, of which nearly 800 caregivers were selected as Ceca Award recipients.
Additionally, each year the Foundation seeks to recognize the “best of the best” with its highest award. Annual Ceca Award Honorees and Finalists are selected by Ceca’s Board from the pool of Award winners over the prior year from throughout Ceca’s network of healthcare partners.
Last year, 2,500 caregivers were nominated and 225 were selected for the Ceca Award in their facilities. From this elite group, the above mentioned honorees received the Annual Ceca Award, and nine additional finalists were also honored:
- Derek Campbell, Executive Chef at Goodwin House in Alexandria, VA
- Emelia Jocelin-Sainvil, CNA at ManorCare West Reading in PA
- Jacqueline Ndiaye, CNA at Genesis Perring Parkway in Parkville, MD
- Amanda Partlow, Nurse Manager at Birmingham Green in Manassas, VA
- Suann Stevens, Dietary Department at Laurel Lakes Rehab and Wellness in Chambersburg, PA
- Rebecca Surface, Home Health Aide at West Virginia Caring in Morgantown, WV
- Carol Wade, RN at Doctors Community Rehab and Patient Care Center in Lanham, MD
- Angela Wheeler, Nurse at Luminus Health Doctors Community Medical Center in Lanham, MD
- Michelle Yanniello, Clinical Coordinator at Psychiatric Institute of Washington in DC
“Each of these individuals is a shining example of the spirit of caring that takes place in our nation’s healthcare communities every day,” said Nate Hamme, President of Ceca Foundation. “Some caregiver acts have been truly heroic, particularly during this pandemic, but the simple act of connecting with patients, residents, and their families has become even more meaningful during this time. If there was ever a time to show our appreciation to caregivers, it is now.”
About Ceca Foundation
Ceca Foundation (derived from “Celebrating caregivers”) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit based in Washington, DC, which partners with hospitals, skilled nursing, aging care and other healthcare communities to recognize their exceptional caregivers and ultimately seeks to improve the patient experience. Founded by Matthew and Rosemary Lawlor, Ceca provides a highly affordable, turnkey recognition solution tailored to healthcare providers, using its innovative software, support services, network and cash awards. Since its launch in 2014, Ceca has publicly recognized over 25,000 acts of care and nearly 800 caregivers have received monetary Ceca Awards. For more information, watch a brief introductory video and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
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Media Contacts:
Michelle Stewart, Director of Marketing, 202-719-8042, mstewart@cecafoundation.org
Lori Stewart, Senior Advisor, 202-258-8793, lstewart@cecafoundation.org
Matt Lawlor of Ceca Foundation on the Eric Stewart Radio Show
Past Press Releases and News Articles
Ceca Foundation Announces Healthcare Partnership with Arosa
Extending Innovative Caregiver Recognition to In-Home Care Communities
NEWS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WASHINGTON, DC, February 2, 2021 — Ceca Foundation (Ceca), established in 2013 to celebrate caregiver excellence, is launching the Ceca Award with Arosa, a leading provider of senior care management and in-home healthcare, and the first organization of its kind to partner with Ceca.
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Backed by Bain Capital Double Impact, Arosa currently operates through locations in California, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas providing innovative models of care through its 2,000 home healthcare workers. Arosa prides itself on its wholistic approach to its cared-for community, focusing on each individual’s overall needs above and beyond just physical and functional needs.
“Arosa’s mission is to be the best employer to the best care professionals and to create new, better models of care to reach more clients and families,” said Ari Medoff, Arosa’s Chief Executive Officer. “The Ceca Award will help us recognize caregiver excellence and create new standards of care in the fast-growing in-home care industry, while maintaining our focus on professionalizing direct care jobs and celebrating the meaningful work of caregivers.”
“As the population ages and incidences of chronic disease continue to rise, we’re seeing more caregivers engaged in the home healthcare industry,” Matthew Lawlor, Executive Chair of Ceca Foundation, commented. “More healthcare communities now embrace technology and online communications, and Ceca’s peer-to-peer model is well-positioned to reach healthcare communities whose staffs are more decentralized.”
Many in-home care providers are seeking new ways to connect with their otherwise isolated employees, especially as physical distancing has become a priority during COVID and there has been increased demand for in-home care services. Ceca’s model of caregiver recognition and its proprietary software provides the tools and support healthcare communities need to foster a collaborative environment, despite the distance. Additionally, with proven results of increased employee engagement, decreased turnover, and improved quality of care, the Ceca Award is a natural fit for these providers.
“The addition of Arosa to the growing list of Ceca healthcare partners allows us to introduce the Ceca Award to an additional 2,000 care providers in eight new states. This is a unique opportunity for both Ceca and the broader to community to thank the growing market of at-home caregivers. We look forward to working with Arosa to celebrate their team members and honor their contributions to improving patient care in the home,” added Nate Hamme, President of Ceca Foundation.
Since the launch of the Ceca Award program, more than 25,000 acts of care have been recognized by peers, residents, patients, and families to honor those healthcare workers for caregiving excellence. Over 750 recipients have been selected for the Ceca Award. In cooperation with its healthcare facility partners, Ceca operates the program and underwrites most costs for its innovative software and cash awards. It has now partnered with around four dozen hospitals, skilled nursing, hospice, mental health facilities and at-home care providers across the nation.
About Ceca Foundation
Ceca Foundation (derived from “Celebrating caregivers”) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit based in Washington, DC, which partners with hospitals, skilled nursing, aging care and other healthcare communities to recognize their exceptional caregivers. Founded by Matthew and Rosemary Lawlor, Ceca seeks to improve the patient experience by publicly recognizing caregivers through its innovative technology platforms (including its software and CecaTV network), support services, and monetary awards—totaling nearly $300,000 to date. For more information, watch a brief introductory video and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
About Arosa
Arosa is the nation’s largest provider of integrated care management and home care services. Our compassionate care professionals are supported and celebrated as they care for our clients and provide peace of mind for the whole family. Please visit our website for more information or to find an office location near you and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.
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Media Contacts:
Michelle Stewart, Director of Marketing, 202-719-8042, mstewart@cecafoundation.org
Tim Harnew, Senior Marketing Specialist, 980-242-3878, timothy.harnew@arosacare.com
Military-Style Response at One Retirement Community Stymies COVID-19
October 8, 2020 – US News and World Report covered Ceca’s first partner, Knollwood Military Life Plan Community. Read the full story.
Excerpt: “Everything changed six days before Easter, on April 6. That day, the District of Columbia Medical Examiner’s office called to notify community officials that a Knollwood hospice resident who had recently died, a woman in her 90s, had tested positive for COVID-19. The deadly new virus had penetrated Knollwood. Leaders quickly launched a military-style response to ramp up testing of residents and staff. ‘It was chaotic,’ says Col. Paul Bricker, a retired Army helicopter pilot and Knollwood’s chief operating officer who commanded the effort. ‘It reminded me very much of being in Afghanistan in a firebase under attack. I almost started wearing camouflage to work.’ Bricker’s wartime aviation experience – he served in Afghanistan and Iraq – informed his efforts.”
National Honor Goes to HMH’s Premier Caregiver
July 23, 2020 – The News-Enterprise covered the Special Award Celebration for Sharon Wright from Hardin Memorial Health. Read the full story.
Excerpt: “During the pandemic, Wright accepted the additional role of incident commander of the hospital’s COVID-19 Response Team. She was charged to assemble clinical leaders to determine the hospital’s response, including designing the structure of the response and appointing leaders to numerous roles. She communicates activities with Baptist Health’s incident command structure and reviews and disseminates all updated state and national guidelines for patient care and staff protection, regulatory requirements and financial resources to aid the organization. She also closely works with the Lincoln Trail District Health Department to discuss preparedness, implement restrictions by the state and secure personal protective equipment. She helps communicate with health care providers in the community to best manage COVID-19 cases.”
McKnight's Long-Term Care News Picks Up Ceca Special Awards
July 2, 2020 – McKnight’s Long-Term Care News recently published an article regarding the 40 Special Award Honorees that received Ceca Awards for their heroic service during COVID-19 titled “A dozen frontline workers honored for ‘extraordinary service’ during pandemic.”
Excerpt from article: “A dozen direct caregivers at nursing homes, senior living and various long-term care facilities were honored for their ‘exceptional acts of care’ during the pandemic. The Ceca Foundation, a nonprofit organization in Washington D.C. that honors caregivers, on Thursday announced the third round of its ‘Special Award’ recipients. The award highlights the ‘extraordinary service’ by healthcare workers during the pandemic. In all, 40 healthcare workers have been honored through the program since April.”
Ceca Foundation Announces a Third Round of Special Award Honorees
Celebrating the Extraordinary Service of Healthcare Workers During the Time of COVID
NEWS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WASHINGTON, DC, July 1, 2020 — Ceca Foundation is pleased to honor 12 additional health caregivers with the Special Award Ceca introduced in April, at the height of the pandemic. The Special Awards were designed specifically to recognize exceptional acts of care by healthcare workers on the frontlines and behind the scenes, who are working tirelessly every day to protect our most vulnerable populations from COVID-19. Ceca previously recognized 11 caregivers in April and 17 in May. This round of Special Awards brings the total to 40 extraordinary healthcare workers honored through Ceca’s unique initiative.
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“Every employee throughout our network of hospitals, skilled nursing, and integrated care communities has stepped-up in meaningful ways to support those they care for,” said Nate Hamme, President of Ceca Foundation. “These individuals represent hundreds of dedicated and compassionate healthcare workers at each of their communities. Each person we honor today has been nominated by a peer, manager, leadership team member or a patient, resident, or family member. Their stories illustrate what exceptional caregiving looks like.”
The following caregivers are being honored with Ceca’s third round of Special Awards:
Washington, DC
- Sulaiman Bangura, RN Case Manager, Capital Caring Health, Washington, DC, for returning to a family’s home after hours upon hearing his patient had passed away. He sensed the family needed a trusted and familiar face and wanted to be there to support them in their grieving.
- Steve Roy McLean, Porter, Army Distaff Center at Knollwood, Washington, DC, for working double shifts during the most intense period of the pandemic, when so many workers were calling-out from sickness or fear. Steve worked tirelessly and with great humor to support residents and staff, cleaning and disinfecting areas to ensure they had a clean, safe environment, assisting the engineering team and leading the EVS prayer circle after the loss of a teammate.
Maryland
- Towanda Evans, Activities Director, Doctors Community Rehabilitation and Patient Care Center, Lanham, MD, for her heartfelt interactions with residents and staff, and for conducting the kinds of activities that make patients and their families happy.
- Augustina Jarrett, Clinical Supervisor, Doctors Community Hospital, Lanham, MD, for being steadfast and reassuring laboratory staff who were processing significant quantities of samples each day. She provided up-to-date information on evolving pandemic procedures and the latest requirements so samples could be processed and tested efficiently.
Pennsylvania
- Mary Donna Chehovich, Connections Activities Associate, Providence Place Senior Living of Drums, PA, for her exceptional humor and caring. She recently wore a funny costume to lift everyone’s spirits and always takes time to say a prayer or do something special with anyone who needs it. She makes everyone, residents and coworkers alike, feel like family.
- Emily Lang, Receptionist, Providence Place Senior Living of Chambersburg, PA, for creating a photo booth to take pictures of residents with their Mother’s Day flowers and gifts to share with their families. She created a wonderful memory for many during this difficult time of separation from their loved ones.
- Virginia Mill, Resident Life III/Medical Technician, Providence Place Senior Living of Pottsville, PA, for making Mother’s Day special for residents by taking professional photos of all the ladies for a Mother’s Day craft project and made them all feel like movie stars. She has brought sunshine to the community during this dark time.
- Anthony Patterson, Resident Life Associate II, Providence Place Senior Living of Pottsville, PA, for the personal care he gave to a patient and her family. The daughter of an ailing resident nearing her end was upset when it was time to go home and was kneeling by her mom’s bed. Anthony kneeled down next to her, consoled her and told her not to worry because he would look after her mother’s needs after she left. The daughter needed a friend just then and was so thankful for Anthony’s presence and comforting words.
- Sue Thompson, Housekeeping Resident Life Associate, Providence Place Senior Living of Chambersburg, PA, for finding a great way for residents and family to connect. She created a distanced “hug” for a resident by using ribbon to measure his arm width and then attached the ribbon to two paper hands, on which she wrote inspirational messages. She gave this to his wife so she could wrap the ribbon around herself and have a “hug” from her husband, which made them both feel closer during necessary distancing practices.
- Kelly Elkins, Evening Nurse Supervisor at Genesis Gettysburg Center, Gettysburg, PA, who placed big, bold room numbers on each resident’s window, so family members could more easily locate their loved one for an outside window visit. Her empathy for families who have been so removed from their loved ones has made a big impact and uplifted the residents during a difficult period of isolation.
Virginia
- Henrietta Acquah-Akoto, Nurse Supervisor, Goodwin House, Alexandria, VA, for her diligence, professionalism, collaborative skills, and accountability on a number of occasions. She checked temperatures in the lobby to expedite caregiver entry and worked through Omnicare policy restrictions to make sure a patient, whose fever had spiked, got a full prescription of antibiotics filled over a weekend. Additionally, she made sure a patient’s lab test was sent out properly and timely, despite restrictions on lab pickup during the COVID crisis. She was able to work through changing regulations put in place during the pandemic in order to provide the great care patients deserve, despite any obstacles.
- Julia Ojo-Adebayo, Receptionist, Birmingham Green, Manassas, VA, for her teamwork, flexibility, and commitment to the mission at Birmingham Green through actions like working two double shifts in a row over Memorial Day weekend, sacrificing personal time in order to help her fellow caregivers and ensure patients’ needs were being met.
Each of these Honorees are celebrated by their fellow staff members, patients, families, and the Ceca team at their respective healthcare communities, in addition to receiving a monetary award of $250.
Matthew Lawlor, Founder and Executive Chair, further stated, “We are proud to highlight another amazing group of caregivers, who have embraced our current challenges and are doing more than ever to keep their communities safe and engaged.”
Ceca, established in 2013 to celebrate caregiver excellence and promote quality patient care, introduced these Special Awards specifically to honor frontline workers and support staff–all defined as caregivers–in the fight against COVID-19 within healthcare communities. The Lawlor family increased its funding and invited outside donors to help underwrite the Special Awards.
Added Hamme, “We share our partner communities’ passion for providing exceptional care and hope that these additional awards shine a light on the sacrifices healthcare workers make each and every day caring for our loved ones. We owe them all a debt of gratitude.”
About Ceca Foundation
Ceca Foundation (derived from “Celebrating caregivers”) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit based in Washington, DC, which partners with hospitals, nursing, aging care and other healthcare communities to recognize their exceptional caregivers. Founded by Matthew and Rosemary Lawlor, Ceca seeks to improve the patient experience by publicly recognizing caregivers through its innovative technology platforms (including its software and CecaTV network), support services, and monetary awards—totaling more than $250,000 to date. For more information, watch a brief introductory video and follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
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Media Contacts:
Michelle Sims, Director of Marketing, 202-719-8042, msims@cecafoundation.org
Lori Stewart, Senior Advisor, 202-258-8793, lstewart@cecafoundation.org
Operating Contact:
Nathan Hamme, Chief Operating Officer, 202-719-8042, nhamme@cecafoundation.org
17 Healthcare Workers Honored by Ceca Foundation
Recognizing the Extraordinary Service of Frontline Caregivers Fighting Coronavirus
NEWS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WASHINGTON, DC, May 29, 2020 — Ceca Foundation is pleased to honor 17 exceptional healthcare workers with a Special Award introduced last month by the organization. The ongoing series of Special Awards are designed to recognize acts of care on the frontlines and behind the scenes during the COVID-19 pandemic. These 17 individuals join the other caregivers that were previously honored, bringing the total to 28 awards.
“Every employee throughout our network of hospitals, skilled nursing, and integrated care communities has stepped-up in meaningful ways to protect patients, senior residents, and one another from the devastating effects of coronavirus,” said Nate Hamme, President of Ceca Foundation.
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The following caregivers are being honored with the second round of Special Awards:
Washington, D.C.
- Cheryl Lucas, Assistant Director of Nursing, Army Distaff Center at Knollwood, Washington, DC, for perseverance in serving as the front-line infection control nurse, testing hundreds of residents, providing updated information, comforting family members, and communicating hope during this pandemic.
- Arlette Kesseng A Mbassa, Director of Nursing, Army Distaff Center at Knollwood, Washington, DC, for her dedication, sacrifice, commitment, and leadership providing front-line nursing care during this pandemic. There are no self-distancing, work-from-home, or telehealth options for nurses, and Arlette comforts the fearful, swabs for samples, guards the PPE, responds to daily DOH requests, and constantly educates and advocates for her team.
- Portia Richardson, Medical Records Director, Stoddard Baptist Global Care, Washington, DC, for her attention to detail in working with regulatory bodies, for organizing and promoting facility events that bring peace to the community, and for her warmth in managing relationships with physicians and funeral homes.
- Steven Skobel, Nurse Practitioner, Capital Caring, Washington, DC, for serving as liaison between the medical team attending to a father, who was intubated for 30 days, and his family, while communicating with skill, dedication, and compassion.
- Georgiana Walker, LPN at Inspire Rehabilitation and Health Center, Washington, DC, who was recognized by a family member for demonstrating patience, respect, efficiency, timeliness and, above all, love in caring for their mother. Her calm and compassionate professionalism make resident stays peaceful and joyful.
Maryland
- Noely Diaz de Leon, Clerk at Genesis Healthcare Franklin Woods, Baltimore, MD, for diligently maintaining scheduled appointments, coordinating transportation, and championing TeleHealth visits with kindness, patience, and respect for both residents and family members.
- Everly Osborne, Critical Care Technician, Doctors Community Hospital, Lanham, MD, for her work above and beyond her job responsibilities in the ICU intubating, prone ventilating, and caring for additional patients, even mopping and cleaning floors to ensure safety and security in critical COVID care rooms.
Pennsylvania
- Kayla Ramsey, Resident Life Associate, Providence Place Senior Living, Chambersburg, PA, for leaving artistic, creative, though-provoking and informative messages on a whiteboard sign residents and staff use to interact with one another, providing joy and an uplifting way to start the day.
- Ralph Chatman, Floor Care Technician, Old Orchard Health Care Center, Easton, PA, for his extraordinary efforts during required moves to accommodate affected patients entering the facility. His efficiency in cleaning, moving belongings, and ensuring the safety of resident environments during an unsettling time made a tremendous difference.
- Kendra Dixon, Resident Life Associate, Connections Unit, Providence Place Senior Living, Pottsville, PA, for helping a patient on Hospice care FaceTime his wife so she could share some special moments during a particularly good day he was having. This became a special memory for the wife as her husband passed away shortly after, but she was able to “be by his side” in his last days.
- Emelia Jocelin-Sainvil, Nurse Aide, ManorCare Health Services, West Reading, PA, for taking time to provide language interpretation services, and for preparing and delivering cultural foods to residents that brought warmth and comfort to them during uncertain times.
- Aubrey Marrow, Resident Life Associate, Providence Place Senior Living, Drums, PA, for his enthusiasm and fun-loving spirit, sharing his passion for dance and his extraordinary devotion to COVID residents, as evidenced by his prepping a COVID survivor for her 101st birthday.
- Michael Tourangeau, Dietary Manager, Laurel Lakes Rehabilitation and Wellness Center, Chambersburg, PA, for initiating and implementing an employee meal plan during this crisis, which allowed all staff to be nourished and to ensure safety by minimizing contact with potential infection vectors.
- Patricia Weaver, RN Unit Manager, Transitions Healthcare, Gettysburg, PA, for her dedication and efficiency as infection preventionist during the COVID pandemic by distributing masks to all employees, keeping staff updated with current information, lending a listening ear to anxieties and concerns, and ensuring all proper precautions are followed.
- Amy Ziolko-Yencho, Night Shift Supervisor at Providence Place Senior Living, Drums, PA, for the manner in which she calms residents with voice or touch, the way she listens to residents and anticipates their needs (even those of their pets), and the way she makes everyone feel like family with her homemade meals.
Virginia
- Edna Berantuo, Nurse, Goodwin House, Bailey’s Crossroads, VA, for providing moments of joy to residents and their families during this pandemic, such as helping a resident set up video conferencing accounts on his new device and teaching him how to set up virtual visits with his family.
West Virginia
- Carrie Buzzo, Clinical Supervisor at West Virginia Caring, Arthurdale, WV, for her calm demeanor in empathizing with patients and families, ensuring supplies and medications are stocked and ready, and for spending extra time educating staff and residents on the signs, symptoms, and precautions necessary during the pandemic.
Each of these Honorees receives a monetary award of $250, and all are celebrated by their fellow staff members, patients, families, and the Ceca team at their respective healthcare communities during a public and virtual Award presentation over video conference.
Matthew Lawlor, Founder and Executive Chair, further stated, “If there was ever a time to show our appreciation to caregivers, it is now. These are very extraordinary people, and these are extraordinary times.”
Ceca, established in 2013 to celebrate caregiver excellence and promote quality patient care, introduced these Special Awards specifically to honor frontline workers and support staff – all defined as caregivers – in the fight against COVID-19 within healthcare communities. The Lawlor family increased its funding and invited outside donors to help underwrite the Special Awards.
About Ceca Foundation
Ceca Foundation (derived from “Celebrating caregivers”) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit based in Washington, DC, which partners with hospitals, nursing, aging care and other healthcare communities to recognize their exceptional caregivers. Founded by Matthew and Rosemary Lawlor, Ceca seeks to improve the patient experience by publicly recognizing caregivers through its innovative technology platforms (including its software and CecaTV network), support services, and monetary awards—totaling more than $250,000 to date. For more information, watch a brief introductory video and follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
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Media Contacts:
Michelle Sims, Director of Marketing, 202-719-8042, msims@cecafoundation.org
Lori Stewart, Senior Advisor, 202-258-8793, lstewart@cecafoundation.org
Operating Contact:
Nathan Hamme, Chief Operating Officer, 202-719-8042, nhamme@cecafoundation.org
Health Organizations That Simplify and Reward Good Care
May 8, 2020 — President Nate Hamme was interviewed for Ideas by We recently. An excerpt is below, and read the full piece online.
Excerpt from Ideas by We: “Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit Ceca Foundation has been advocating for caregivers since 2013—and its work has become even more vital as these professionals have come into the spotlight during this pandemic. Ceca (an abbreviation of “celebrating caregivers”) coordinates with healthcare facilities and families of patients across the Northeast to recognize outstanding caregivers, awarding honorees with a public award presentation and monetary prizes throughout the year. The organization is a member at WeWork Universal North in D.C. and has space through WeWork for Good, an initiative that contributes office space to eligible organizations working to fight the coronavirus.”
Ceca Foundation Announces Special Award Honorees
Recognizing the Extraordinary Service of Frontline Healthcare Workers Fighting Coronavirus
NEWS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WASHINGTON, DC, May 4, 2020 – Ceca Foundation is pleased to honor 11 exceptional health caregivers with its new Special Award. The Special Awards are designed specifically to recognize exceptional acts of care from those healthcare workers on the frontlines and behind the scenes, who are working tirelessly every day to protect our most vulnerable populations from the coronavirus.
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“Every employee throughout our network of hospitals, skilled nursing, and integrated care communities has stepped-up to protect patients, senior residents, and each other from the effects of the coronavirus pandemic,” said Nate Hamme, President of Ceca Foundation. “From receptionists who are screening everyone coming through the door, supply chain workers who are procuring protective gear and equipment, staff who are making facemasks to share, IT workers who are connecting the elderly to their families though video, to the medical staff who are jeopardizing their own health and private lives to care for those who need special protection and care–all of these employees deserve our thanks. We are pleased to honor them with our Special Award.”
The following caregivers are being honored with the first round of Special Awards:
- Talisha Arneaud, Admissions Director at Stoddard Baptist Nursing Home in Washington, DC, volunteered to sit on the front lines and take the temperature of everyone entering the building to protect residents and staff from transported illness.
- Rachael Beadle, Receptionist at Genesis Glade Valley in Walkersville, MD, has assumed the additional responsibility for screening visitors and vendors, and putting people at ease with her calm demeanor and simple explanations of procedures.
- Jennifer Bennett, Events Communications Coordinator at Goodwin House in Alexandria, VA, has been helping staff and residents navigate technical issues while streaming information and activities to residents’ apartments—keeping them engaged, connected, entertained and informed during these difficult times.
- Dawn Crothers, a Registered Nurse at Psychiatric Institute of Washington in Washington, DC, sewed washable, reversible facemasks with fun and unique designs for staff, so everyone would be protected.
- Ayo Clementine Grant, Certified Nursing Assistant at Army Distaff Center at Knollwood in Washington, DC, has been thrust into the role of gatekeeper and coronavirus screener, often waiting in the cold to check visitors for symptoms before they enter her LifeSpan community, in addition to enforcing protocols for the safety of all residents and staff.
- Shane Grinder, Admissions Director at Genesis Gettysburg Center in Gettysburg, PA, has been putting together meals, treats and goodie bags to make all of her staff feel greatly appreciated during these difficult times.
- Carla Nieves, Business Office Manager at Genesis Franklin Woods Center in Baltimore, MD, has been making sure that the front desk is staffed 24/7 and ensures everyone working the front desk is well educated about new COVID-19 changes in policies and procedures surrounding screening and visitation.
- Bob Royer, Board Member at Army Distaff Center at Knollwood in Washington, DC, anticipated a PPE shortage very early on in the crisis and stopped at a medical supply store to procure masks, goggles, and other protective equipment for the caregivers at Knollwood.
- Mary Ann Terway, a Resident Life Associate (CNA) at Providence Place in Pottsville, PA, has made over 100 masks and washable gowns for co-workers, who are interacting with patients and residents. She also pampers her residents with special foods and toiletries to make them look and feel their best during these distressing times.
- Lisa Wallace, Corporate Director of Supply Chain at Goodwin House in Alexandria, VA, anticipated that PPE would be harder to get for long-term care facilities and went well beyond her normal role to plan and coordinate the funding, procurement, and distribution of over 1.3 million face masks for staff at Goodwin House and over 50 other long-term care organizations in the area dedicated to serving the needs of aging adults and people with disabilities.
- Lucille Williams, a Patient Care Technician at Doctors Community Hospital in Lanham, MD, used compassion and humor in treating a potential COVID-19 patient, reassuring them and allowing them to relax during a very scary time.
Each of these Honorees receives a monetary award of $250, and all are celebrated by their fellow staff members, patients, families, and the Ceca team at their respective healthcare communities.
Matthew Lawlor, Founder and Executive Chair, further stated, “If there was ever a time to show our appreciation to caregivers, it is now. These are very extraordinary people, and these are extraordinary times.”
Ceca Foundation, established in 2013 to celebrate caregiver excellence and promote quality patient care, introduced these Special Awards to honor frontline workers and support staff – all defined as caregivers – in the fight against COVID-19 within healthcare communities. The Lawlor family increased its funding and invited outside donors to help underwrite the new series of Special Awards that go beyond the regular Ceca Awards giving regularly within partner facilities.
Added Hamme, “While we are honoring caregivers with these supplemental awards, it’s also an opportunity for all of us in the community to salute those who are fighting the coronavirus. The Special Awards provide a small, but sorely needed, financial boost to our Honorees. At the same time, they offer a vehicle for all of us to express a very loud, collective ‘thank you!’”
About Ceca Foundation
Ceca Foundation (derived from “Celebrating caregivers”) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit based in Washington, DC, which partners with hospitals, nursing, aging care and other healthcare communities to recognize their exceptional caregivers. Founded by Matthew and Rosemary Lawlor, Ceca seeks to improve the patient experience by publicly recognizing caregivers through its innovative technology platforms (including its software and CecaTV network), support services, and monetary awards. For more information, watch a brief video and follow us on Twitter and Facebook. To schedule an interview with one of our award recipients, contact Michelle Sims.
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Media Contacts:
Michelle Sims, Director of Marketing, 202-719-8042, msims@cecafoundation.org
Lori Stewart, Senior Advisor, 202-258-8793, lstewart@cecafoundation.org
Operating Contact:
Nathan Hamme, Chief Operating Officer, 202-719-8042, nhamme@cecafoundation.org
Ceca Foundation Steps Up Efforts to Honor Frontline Healthcare Workers Fighting Coronavirus
Supplements Ongoing Caregiver Awards to Recognize Extraordinary Service
NEWS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NOTE: This also appeared in Digital Journal, which included additional Q&A at the end of the release.
WASHINGTON, DC, March 30, 2020 – The COVID-19 virus is now running its course in the U.S., putting incredible pressure on patients and residents in the nation’s hospitals and long-term care communities. Healthcare workers are making truly heroic personal sacrifices that jeopardize their own health and private lives, working incredibly long hours to contain the virus and care for and comfort those who are directly impacted.
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“If there was ever a time to show our appreciation to caregivers, it is now,” said Nathan Hamme, President of Ceca Foundation. Ceca, established in 2013 to celebrate caregiver excellence and promote quality patient care, is introducing a new series of Special Awards, stepping up its efforts to honor frontline workers and support staff – all defined as caregivers – in the fight against COVID-19.
Ceca partners with 50 hospitals, nursing homes, psychiatric and hospice centers to recognize and financially reward their outstanding caregivers though its Ceca Award program. The Foundation provides proprietary software and manages its partners’ engagement.
20,000 nominations and countless Ceca Award ceremonies over the years, it still leaves a lump in my throat witnessing Ceca Awardees being honored. These are extraordinary people, and these are extraordinary times.” After founding and funding Ceca with his spouse Rosemary, the Lawlor family will be increasing their funding and, for the first time, actively inviting outside donors to help underwrite the Special Awards.
Added Hamme, “This is an opportunity for all of us in the community to salute those who are on the frontline fighting the coronavirus. The Special Awards provide a small but sorely needed financial boost to our Honorees. At the same time, they offer a vehicle for all of us to express a very loud, collective ‘thank you.’”
About Ceca Foundation
Ceca Foundation (pronounced See’ ka, as in Celebrating caregivers) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit based in Washington, DC. Its mission is to improve the human experience in healthcare communities by honoring the work of their exceptional caregivers. Founded by Matthew and Rosemary Lawlor, Ceca publicly recognizes caregivers through its innovative technology platforms, support services, and monetary awards. View our brief video and follow us on Twitter and Facebook. To schedule an interview with an award recipient, contact Michelle Sims.
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Media Contacts:
Michelle Sims, Director of Marketing, 202-719-8042, msims@cecafoundation.org
Lori Stewart, Senior Advisor, 202-258-8793, lstewart@cecafoundation.org
Operating Contact:
Nathan Hamme, Chief Operating Officer, 202-719-8042, nhamme@cecafoundation.org
Ceca Foundation Announces Annual Caregiver Award Honorees
Nursing and Hospital Caregivers Recognized with the Ceca Award
NEWS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WASHINGTON, DC, March 2, 2020 – Ceca Foundation is pleased to honor three extraordinary health caregivers with its Annual Ceca Caregiver Award:
Nicole Dudeck is a Resident Life Associate/Medication Technician at Providence Place in Drums, PA, a senior living facility offering independent living, personal and memory care. After several promotions took her into support roles, she missed direct contact with her patients and returned to work as a CNA. Her kindness is reflected in her many small acts of caring, such as taking the initiative to bring residents new clothing, toiletries, or decorative holiday trees for their apartments.
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Olivia Plummer is a Unit Clerk at Doctors Community Hospital in Lanham, MD. Olivia was honored for helping a family member who needed to fill an insulin prescription for her daughter. After being told Medicaid wouldn’t cover it, the mother anxiously called Olivia. On her own time, Olivia talked to a Medicaid representative and the fulfilling pharmacists, asking questions the patient’s mother didn’t think to ask. With herculean effort and exceptional empathy for those who struggle with the healthcare system, Oliva finally got the much-needed prescription filled, bringing the family member to tears.
Ayan Sharif is a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) at Goodwin House, Alexandria, VA, a nonprofit Life Plan community, and part of the Goodwin House family of senior living communities and services. Ayan was recognized for her special relationships with residents and her focus on their happiness and wellbeing. She engages with residents in a way that helps them maintain as much independence as possible and allows them to have a voice in their own treatment and decision-making. She is particularly known for her exceptional ability to interact with dementia patients.
Each of these honorees receives a monetary award of $2,500, and all are celebrated by their fellow staff members, patients, families, and the Ceca team at their respective healthcare communities.
Ceca Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, partners with over 50 healthcare communities to recognize their outstanding caregivers. Ceca provides propriety software and manages its partners’ engagement and recognition program, while underwriting monetary awards for caregivers.
To build teamwork, all staff are considered caregivers. Ceca Award candidates are nominated by their peers, patients, residents and families, who cite the nominee’s exemplary caregiver values and exceptional acts of care. Selections are made monthly or quarterly by a local selection panel. The program has generated 22,000 nominations since launch and 700 Ceca Award honorees.
Additionally, each year the Foundation seeks to recognize the “best of the best” with its highest award. Annual Ceca Award Honorees and Finalists are selected by Ceca’s Board from the pool of Award winners over the prior year from throughout Ceca’s network of healthcare partners.
Last year, 2,000 caregivers were nominated and 150 were selected for the Ceca Award in their facilities. From this elite group, three honorees received the Annual Ceca Award, and eight finalists were also honored:
- Paul Blankenship, Vascular Technician at Doctors Community Hospital
- Carolyn Brown, Restorative Certified Nursing Assistant at Birmingham Green
- Colleen Carbury, RN Case Manager at Capital Caring Health
- Carrie Cornell, Social Services Director at Genesis Healthcare, Gettysburg Center
- Melissa Ellis, Housekeeping/Laundry at Stoddard Baptist Nursing Home
- Daniel Ghidey, Dining Services Supervisor at Goodwin House Bailey’s Crossroads
- Sharae Greene, Psychiatric Counselor at Psychiatric Institute of Washington
- Mohamed Koroma, Director of Engineering at Knollwood Military Retirement Community
“Each of these individuals is a shining example of the spirit of caring that takes place in our nation’s healthcare communities every day,” said Nate Hamme, President of Ceca Foundation. “Some caregiver acts are truly heroic, but often it’s the simple act of connecting with patients, residents, and their families that lifts all of our humanity.”
About Ceca Foundation
Ceca Foundation (pronounced See’ ka, as in Celebrating caregivers) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit based in Washington, DC, which partners with hospitals, nursing, aging care and other healthcare communities to recognize their exceptional caregivers. Founded by Matthew and Rosemary Lawlor, Ceca seeks to improve the patient experience by publicly recognizing caregivers through its innovative technology platforms (including its software and CecaTV network), support services, and monetary awards. For more information, visit www.CecaFoundation.org and watch a brief introductory video. You can also follow us on Twitter and Facebook.
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Media Contacts:
Michelle Sims, Director of Marketing, 202-719-8042, msims@cecafoundation.org
Lori Stewart, Senior Advisor, 202-258-8793, lstewart@cecafoundation.org
Operating Contact:
Nathan Hamme, Chief Operating Officer, 202-719-8042, nhamme@cecafoundation.org
Providence Place Caregiver Receives Press Over Prestigious Annual Ceca Award
February 2020 — Ceca healthcare partner, Providence Place Senior Living in Drums, PA, recently received press coverage from local media about the presentation of the Annual Ceca Award to caregiver Nicole Dudeck. Read the write-up from The Hazelton Standard-Speaker and see the article and video from PA Homepage to learn more about why she was selected.
Excerpt from The Hazelton Standard-Speaker: “Dudeck has been a part of the Providence Place team for 10 years in various roles throughout the community. The annual nomination was provided by Kimberly Perchak, executive director of the Drums campus. ‘Providing care is her passion,’ Perchak said. ‘Nicole never has a bad day. Instead, she will turn your bad day right around…. She has this kindness about her that is attractive. It makes her beautiful on the inside.'”
Ceca Foundation Brings its Caregiver Award Program to Five New Healthcare Communities in Pennsylvania
Innovative Engagement Program Uses Technology to Recognize Healthcare Workers
NEWS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WASHINGTON, DC, January 13, 2020 – Ceca Foundation, established in 2013 to celebrate caregiver excellence, is launching its innovative Ceca Award program with five additional Providence Place senior living facilities across central Pennsylvania.
“We’ve enjoyed working with Providence Place in Drums, PA, and are delighted to work with these five additional communities and continue our expansion into Pennsylvania. Success in improving the experience of patients, residents and family members
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“The Ceca Foundation program brought a lot of positivity and engagement to our team members at the senior living campus. The participation was fantastic and supports our larger mission of creating a caring, collaborative and positive environment for residents and co-workers alike. We are excited to bring this program and spirit to our other five communities soon as well,” noted Rick Barley, COO Providence Place Senior Living.
Since the launch of the program in 2014, more than 20,000 nominations have been submitted by peers, residents, patients, and families to recognize those healthcare workers for caregiving excellence. More than 650 individuals have been selected for the Ceca Award. In cooperation with its healthcare facility partners, Ceca operates the program and underwrites most costs for its innovative software and cash awards. It has now partnered with 40 hospitals, nursing, hospice, and mental health facilities in the mid-Atlantic region and Arkansas.
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About Ceca Foundation
Ceca Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit based in Washington, DC partners with hospitals, nursing, and other healthcare communities to recognize their exceptional caregivers. Ceca seeks to improve the patient experience by publicly recognizing caregivers through its innovative technology platforms (including its software and CecaTV network), support services, and monetary awards. For more information, visit www.CecaFoundation.org and watch an introductory video. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.
Media Contacts:
Michelle Sims, Director of Marketing, 202-719-8042, msims@cecafoundation.org
Lori Stewart, Senior Advisor, 202-258-8793, lstewart@cecafoundation.org
Operating Contact:
Nathan Hamme, Chief Operating Officer, 202-719-8042, nhamme@cecafoundation.org
Shawn Perry interviews Matt Lawlor of Ceca Foundation on his show The Senior Zone
Ceca Healthcare Partner Featured in TIME
October 4, 2019 — Our healthcare partner, Knollwood Military Lifespan Community, was recently featured in a TIME cover story titled, “Stop Me if You’ve Heard This One: A Robot and a Team of Irish Scientists Walk Into a Senior Living Home.” Read the piece to learn more about the fun way Knollwood is bridging technology and resident engagement.
Excerpt from TIME: “It’s karaoke-rehearsal time at Knollwood Military Retirement Community, a 300-bed facility tucked away in a leafy corner of northwest Washington, D.C. Knollwood resident and retired U.S. Army Colonel Phil Soriano, 86, has hosted the facility’s semi-monthly singalongs since their debut during a boozy snowstorm happy hour in 2016. For the late August 2019 show, he’ll share emcee duties with a special guest: Stevie, a petite and personable figure who’s been living at Knollwood for the last six weeks. Soriano wants to sing the crowd-pleasing hit ‘YMCA’ while Stevie leads the crowd through the song’s signature dance moves. But Stevie is a robot, and this is harder than it sounds.”
"Helping Hands" in The Frederick News-Post
September 2019 — One of our newest healthcare partners, Genesis HealthCare Glade Valley, recently appeared in The Frederick News-Post article, “Helping Hands,” that focuses on the facility bringing the Ceca Award into its employee recognition program, and features their first Honoree, Cathy Warfield. Read the story.
Excerpt from The Frederick News-Post: “In mid-July, Cathy Warfield was recognized as Genesis Glade Valley Center’s first Ceca Foundation honoree. She was acknowledged for muliptle contribbutions, including picking up shifts when others were unavailable, her infectious sense of humor and a willingness to dance with residents to brighten their days.”
Without Formal Nursing Training, Woman Hailed as ‘Angel’ for Her Response to PTSD Episode
July 28, 2019 — Caregiver and Ceca Award Honoree Bernadette Leggett from Stoddard Baptist Global Care talks about helping an aging veteran suffering from a PTSD episode. The interview was done by Ceca’s Lori Stewart and featured on Good News Network. Read the full story.
Excerpt: “Leggett didn’t know it at the time, but Chantel Berrquet, a nursing aide who nominated Leggett for a CecaAward, had been standing by quietly observing the scene as it unfolded. ‘The day I watched her re-orient a resident, I was so amazed by her skill that I had to stop and think about what I witnessed,’ Berrquet recalled of the incident. ‘That day, I thought God had sent an angel to help this man through his difficult moment. Anyone could see the amazing transformation in the resident’s eyes and face after hearing Bernadette’s voice.’”
Ceca Foundation Mentioned in Forbes
June 11, 2019 — Mary Savoy, from our healthcare partner facility Forest Hills of DC, was quoted in an article from Forbes on making employees feel valued through Ceca Award’s and other methods in order to retain quality staff. Read the full article online.
Excerpt from Forbes: “[She] gets a list of upcoming birthdays from the payroll department every month and then writes a personal birthday note to every employee. She also sends notes to acknowledge other events in employees’ lives and to help new hires feel welcome. Employees at Forest Hills can also be nominated for an award and to win a $250 check from the Ceca Foundation, which recognizes and awards professional caregivers for their excellence in service.”
Hamme Named President Of Ceca Foundation
April 8, 2019 — Falls Church native and 2001 George Mason High School graduate Nathan Hamme was named president of the Ceca Foundation, a Washington, D.C.-based non-profit, last month after almost four years there as its managing director. In his high school days, Hamme was a star on the Mason basketball team that made it to the state’s final four and worked part-time at the News-Press. Read the full article in the Falls Church News-Press.
Once Living On the Streets, the Love and Support of 250 Seniors Made Her Sober—and an Award-Winning Caregiver
March 24, 2019 — Featured on Good News Network, caregiver and Ceca Award winner Patricia Murray talks about how working for Carroll Manor, a retirement community in Washington, D.C., helped her from homelessness to a 20+ year career in caregiving. Read the full story online.