BC Care Awards: Recognizing long-service excellence in the seniors care sector

Across the sector, there are a great number of people who dedicate their careers to contributing to the best care of seniors. BC Care Providers Association (BCCPA) proudly recognizes these long-standing contributions through the prestigious Ed Helfrich Long-Service Excellence Award, which celebrates those with a 15+ year industry track record of developing and delivering quality care for individuals in care.

Earlier this year at the 9^th Annual BC Care Awards, the Association presented the award to winner Karen Biggs, who demonstrated a deep commitment to supporting seniors throughout her 41 years in working in the sector.

For several decades, Karen has served as CEO at numerous care homes, like Menno place until her retirement, and has taken on many roles in the sector. These included mentorship to family support, executive leadership, non-profit awareness, and advocacy. She has also been an accreditor for Accreditation Canada, a Board member for the BC Health Care Occupational Health and Safety Society and has been heavily involved in the Canadian College of Health Leaders and has served on working groups and committees within Fraser Health.

Karen has been associated with BCCPA since its beginnings in 1980, when it was known as Pri-Care, and has seen its growth into a respected association representing 450 organizations across the seniors’ living and care continuum. She has served twice as President on BCCPA’s Board of Directors, stepping up as Interim President last year.

A thoughtful leader who constantly makes innovative change for seniors, Karen was instrumental in getting families the opportunity to see their loved ones in long-term care homes during the COVID-19 pandemic Public Health Order. By hiring families, Karen’s prompt action highlighted the importance of family caregivers as a support to family members in long-term care homes.