BC Care Providers Association (BCCPA) is proud to recognize the inspiring work of those working in B.C.’s seniors’ care sector, whether in long-term care, assisted living or home health.
Throughout the holiday season, BCCPA will be profiling all nominees across award categories to celebrate each nominee.
Below are a few nominees in the assisted living category for 2024 BC Care Provider of the Year.
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Lorna Crooks – Home Support Worker, Williams Lake Seniors Village
With the ability to quickly build rapport with tenants and their families, Lorna takes her role and scope of practice and humanizes it. She is simultaneously efficient, yet always ensures that tenants each feel that they are prioritized and have their individual needs met. On each tenant’s birthday, Lorna makes them feel special by gathering all tenants in the dining room to sing them a “happy birthday.” From helping tenants decorate their apartment doors, dressing up as Santa Claus and handing out gifts during Christmas, to finding deals on items for tenants, Lorna is always finding creative ways to fulfill the needs of each senior at Williams Lake.
“Lorna is someone I wish I could clone. She exemplifies what someone working in the healthcare field should be. The tenants and family love when she is working, and she will often come in on her days or evenings off if there is a special event happening just so she can be with ‘her people.’ I know, without a shadow of a doubt, that I can count on Lorna if I need something in a pinch. Without her, our assisted living environment would not be the same.” – Kim Ringland, GM
Chris De Los Santos – Receptionist, Trillium West Shore Village
Although his official role is a receptionist, Chris goes above and beyond to support every department at the Village, always ready to lend a helping hand. Whether it’s assisting with maintenance, housekeeping, activities, culinary tasks, resident concerns, or tech support, he approaches every task with a can-do attitude.
For instance, Chris plays a key role in the activities department during the home’s special events, preparing and facilitating arts and crafts sessions with residents. When housekeeping is short-staffed, he steps in to efficiently clean suites. These are just a few examples of how Chris contributes across all teams, embodying personalized, person-centered care in everything he does.
“Residents know it – if there are any tech problems he’s is the one to call. For any small problem with a computer or printer, phone, cable boxes, etc. They wait for him to arrive to work.” – Bailey, team member
“Especially grateful are new residents who move in with family out of area – Chris has patiently helped multiple times with tech support & that extra care to ensure they feel at home.” – Jojan, Chris’ manager
Ian Blankenberg – Concierge, Aspira Mayfair Terrace
At Aspira Mayfair Terrace, Ian is the first friendly face to welcome new residents, easing their transition with his calm and compassionate demeanor. He quickly helps new residents feel at home and supported during such significant changes.
Fostering trust through meaningful conversations and attentive care, Ian constantly builds and strengthens connections with residents, families, and guests. Families take comfort in knowing their loved ones are in such capable hands such as his.
Always attentive to routines, Ian promptly checks in on residents, ensuring their safety and comfort. His leadership also shines in emergencies, like a fire alarm, where he kept everyone calm, assigned tasks, and maintained safety.
Ian’s compassion, attentiveness, and teamwork make him an important part of the Aspira Mayfair Terrace community for both residents and staff alike.
“Ian shows kindness everyday. He is always friendly and welcoming. He remembers the name of all our guests and welcomes them by name when they visit.”
“Not only is Ian a superstar at Mayfair Terrace. Ian also gives back to the community and volunteers with community emergency response.”
Thank you to our award sponsor for their generous support:
