Every year, BC Care Providers Association is proud to celebrate those who make a profound difference in seniors’ care across the province through the BC Care Awards. The Ed Helfrich Long-Service Excellence Award particularly recognizes the contributions of a member owner/operator or a member employee/contractor who has a 15+ year industry track record of developing and delivering quality care for individuals in care.
Below are some of the nominees for the 2024 award.
Jackie Angel – Director of Assisted Living and Adult Day Program, Hawthorne Senior Care Community
For over 35 years, Jackie has exemplified an unwavering dedication to quality, compassion, and excellence in tenant/resident and family-centered care. Her tireless commitment and contributions have left an incredible mark on Hawthorne’s community and have significantly shaped the standards and programs that define the industry and enrich the lives of the people in care today.
Throughout her tenure, Jackie Angel has spearheaded the development of countless innovations that have shaped Assisted Living and Adult Day Programs in B.C. She has piloted and operationalized many new programs that have enhanced the quality of life for countless tenant/residents and supported people living in the broader community with the large and successful Adult Day Program that she has led since its inception. Notably, Jackie led the initial pilot for the Adult Day Overnight Stay Program for those who attend the adult day program but live at home but spend a few nights in an overnight suite. This initiative helps people to age at home safely and by better supporting those critical family caregivers which has proven it can delay admission to Assisted Living and Long-Term Care Programs, thereby reducing the demand for these increasingly scarce resources. These programs have provided essential services and improved the well-being of those who have come to rely on them, smoothing transitions, and ensuring that each person receives care and services tailored to their unique needs.
From the early days of her career until today, Jackie demonstrated an innate ability to lead teams and care for staff with empathy and vision. Jackie’s extraordinary career reflects a legacy of compassion, innovation, and the tireless pursuit of excellence. Her impact on the community is profound, and the programs and standards she has built will continue to benefit future generations, even beyond her retirement slated for January 2025.
Rukshana Ali – Support services- Housekeeper, Three Links Care Society
Rukshana has dedicated 43 years of service to the Three Links Care Center. Her commitment to the residents, staff, and the Three Links Care Society’s mission is extraordinary.
Rukhshana’s journey at Three Links began over four decades ago, after moving from Fiji to Vancouver in the 1970s. Since then, she has dedicated herself to ensuring that each resident feels respected, cared for, and valued. As a support service worker, she has not only performed her duties but has also become a trusted friend and caregiver, offering emotional support as much as physical care. Her warmth and dependability have made her a cherished figure for countless residents, many of whom regard her as a confidante and a source of comfort.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Rukhshana’s dedication truly shone. In an unprecedented time of fear and uncertainty, she adapted swiftly to new safety protocols to keep residents safe, donning layers of PPE while maintaining a calm, steady presence. She went beyond her duties, addressing not only the physical needs of the residents but also their emotional well-being during a time of isolation. Recognizing the toll the separation took on residents and their families, she worked tirelessly to keep them connected, arranging video calls and updating families. Her kindness brought reassurance to residents who felt the weight of the pandemic’s restrictions.
Rukhshana’s impact extends beyond her work with residents. During challenging times, particularly when the pandemic strained staffing, she was among the first to step up, taking extra shifts and helping train new staff. Her support was instrumental in preserving the unity and resilience of our team. Rukhshana embodies the qualities of a compassionate healthcare professional, showing that true leadership is often a quiet, steadfast presence that inspires those around her.
Teresa Biddic – Healthcare Worker, Douglas Care Community
Teresa has been an invaluable part of Douglas Care Community for the past 30 years. As a Health Care Worker, she has consistently demonstrated exceptional commitment, compassion, and dedication in her role. Teresa’s commitment to providing quality service has been unwavering. Throughout her years here, she has continually gone above and beyond to ensure that her residents receive the highest level of care and support.
Teresa is known for her reliability and strong work ethic. Whether it’s taking on extra shifts, staying late to finish tasks or helping out in times of need she is always there to support the team and fulfill responsibilities.
Teresa was instrumental in setting the highest standard of care involving the presentation of the home and the residents. Her vision was to ensure that each resident received a personalized spa-like experience during morning care and bath time. She believes that the home should be presented as “their home” each day that the resident is with us. At end of life, families have expressed their gratitude and are truly uplifted by the extra touches Teresa adds.
Teresa brings her cultural with her wherever she goes, often bringing in foods from her homeland and sharing stories with co-workers and residents.
Thank you to our award sponsor for their generous support:
