The Care Provider of the Year Award celebrates individuals of distinction, particularly those who exhibit commitment to the best quality of care for seniors. Read below for more about five nominees in the Long-Term Care category.
Winners will officially be announced in January 2023 and will be presented their awards at the BC Care Awards ceremony in Victoria, B.C. on February 28, 2023.
Rhonda Owen-Koch – St. Charles Manor
At 71 years of age, Rhonda Owen-Koch is full of energy 
and approaches each day with a positive attitude and outlook as a Health Care Aide at St. Charles Manor. Rhonda takes the time to really get to know residents and provides a level of behaviour support that keeps the residents independent and involved in their care.
Rhonda always makes the residents feel loved and often will provide families with insights on how to connect with the residents when interactions and involvement shifts. She has provided a shoulder to cry on to both residents and family and can get the most resistant resident to shower, toilet or even get dressed with ease. She adapts her approach to each resident and will very her approach-based on the residents needs.
From her coworker:
“We are so lucky to have Rhonda on our team. She is committed to providing the best care for each and every resident. She is a joy to work with, willing to help others and always puts her best foot forward. The energy she has is remarkable and I hope she continues to work in our home as she makes each and everyday better. I wish we could clone her as she is just that good!”
Ruth Grier & Lydia David – Kaigo Senior Living
Identical twins Ruth Grier and Lydia David are Greeters/Screeners at 
Kaigo’s Valleyhaven site. Both work nearby at a middle school as ECE teachers for the past 20 years and have volunteered their evenings this year when Valleyhaven needed greeters. They are consistently happy, bright, engaged and full of energy. It is apparent the twins enjoy people and giving back. They are full of positive energy and give everything they have in every four-hour shift that they work.
From their nominator:
“They are kind, polite, eager to help and go above and beyond to make each family member and visitor feel warm and welcome. This is such an integral part of keeping families reassured we offer excellent care and service to their loved ones. They offer a wonderful first impression of the Home. I hear the visitors compliment the twins for their gracious attitude and their amazing art work.” – Janet Carriere, Administrator at Kaigo Senior Living
Sonia Mann – Bevan Village
Sonia started her LPN career in 2006 at Bevan Village. 
Since then, she has been committed to her work and began working as a Senior LPN last year. Sonia shows empathy to each resident. By practicing empathy, Sonia treats and focuses on a person-centered care approach, rather than strictly following routine guidelines. Sonia communicates well with patients and colleagues, even in their most difficult moments.
From her nominator:
“All of my team said that Sonia is exceptional team leader with kind-hearted, compassionate, caring person with strong communication skills — someone who listens well and puts the patient first. The exceptional nurse of course has strong clinical skills, keen attention to detail and commitment to the highest standards of care. A combination of knowledge and experience is the key to recognizing a problem and offering the best solution. Sonia is well liked and trusted by her team and doctors. As a director of care, I have 100% confidence that I can trust and depend on Sonia for any clinical matters or other responsibilities.” – Liby Almond, Director of Care at Bevan Village
Vilma Elliot – Nicola Lodge, Sienna Senior Living
As a Cook at Nicola Lodge, Vilma Elliot delivers quality 
food to residents and exceeds expectations to showcase her love and compassion to them. Vilma’s main priority is the residents dining experience, satisfaction, and enjoyment. She’s always leading by example with knowledge and skill. Taste testing, critiquing recipes and making sure the quality is kept throughout production and service, Vilma can be relied on to ensure our residents receive an elevated dining experience. Her passion shines through every day in the meals she prepares.
Vilma’s passion for food shines through her presentation when catering functions for Nicola Lodge. She’s always willing to assist where needed and is reliable and dependable. Willing to speak up, strategize and work as a team, when unexpected industry challenges arise. Even with these challenges, Vilma can jump in and take on any role with success and dedication.
From her nominator:
“Vilma takes immense pride in the work that she does and shows her pride and love through this work. She is committed to ensuring a positive and enjoyable experience is experienced by everyone, regardless of any dietary restrictions or special requirements they may have. This can be hard to achieve when preparing meals on a large scale – Vilma ensures it’s done every time!” – Theresa Postnikoff
BC Care Provider of the Year | Long Term Care Award is sponsored by:
