BC Care Providers Association (BCCPA) is proud to celebrate the many exceptional individuals who provide the best quality of care to B.C. seniors in long-term care, assisted living and home health at the 12th Annual BC Care Awards. Registration is now open.
With winners being announced in January 2026, the Association would like to celebrate all nominees throughout the next few weeks. Below are the first few nominees in the assisted living category. Read on to learn more about their inspiring journeys.
Marilyn Kirkpatrick – Administrator, Benchmark Lifestyles Incorporated – Heritage House
Marilyn Kirkpatrick exemplifies quality, 
compassion, and excellence through her thoughtful leadership at Heritage House. She ensures that care goes far beyond routine: it is personal, dignified, and rooted in genuine human connection. Under her guidance, residents truly age in place with comfort and purpose. One inspiring example is a 91-year-old resident who has lived at Heritage house for more than 23 years. This resident has continued to thrive independently under her care and continues to be surrounded by laughter and treated with respect. Families deeply trust Marilyn because of her empathetic approach to leading with dignity. This approach has created a culture that nurtures both residents’ physical and emotional well-being.
Marilyn’s leadership is defined by presence and compassion. Whether she’s assisting residents, delivering meals, or sitting with someone in need of comfort, she leads by example. She shows that true excellence in care begins with the heart. Her calm, creative approach during times of challenge inspires staff and residents alike, while her mentorship fosters a workplace grounded in kindness and accountability. Marilyn’s quiet strength and unwavering dedication has transformed Heritage House into a genuine community: one that feels like family and radiates warmth, stability, and joy.
“My father lived at Heritage House for many years, and it is because of Marilyn’s care and understanding that he continues to live independently and with dignity. She treats him like family.” – Family member or resident
Liezel Jacinto – Health & Wellness Manager, The Concorde
Liezel embodies the very best of compassionate and person-centered care. She approaches each resident and family member with genuine warmth and professionalism, ensuring they are respected and understood. Her compassion extends beyond the walls of The Concorde as she often meets with seniors within her community. She takes the time to listen to their concerns and even helps them find the safest and most supportive living environment that meets their needs.
Deeply shaped by her own experiences as a woman of Filipino descent, Liezel brings empathy, resilience, and cultural awareness to every aspect of her work. She has a special ability to connect with individuals facing barriers, mental health challenges, or moments of vulnerability. Her quiet advocacy and unwavering dedication are seen in countless acts of kindness: from mentoring colleagues to sharing a resident’s final dance before MAID. Liezel’s genuine heart, integrity, and steady presence make her an irreplaceable part of The Concorde community, and a shining example of care delivered with love and humanity.
“I want to thank you for your kind words; you never fail to recognize hard work. I feel appreciated and grateful. I admire your leadership, and I respect you as my manager. You are truly inspirational and valued.” – Nikki, HCA staff member
Stephanie Clark – Resident Assistant, Baptist Housing (Marrion Village)
Stephanie brings a remarkable sense of care and dedication to everything she does. Her warm, attentive approach helps residents feel truly understood and supported. With a natural ability to create comfort and build trust, she ensures that every interaction is both safe and meaningful. Her presence is a steady source of reassurance, and the respect she shows residents and staff fosters a deep sense of community and belonging.
What makes Stephanie truly stand out is her joyful energy and natural ability to foster connection. Whether she’s sharing a laugh, brightening a room with her enthusiasm, or going the extra mile to ensure someone feels comfortable, Stephanie consistently brings light and community into her workplace. Her initiative and compassion leave a lasting impression, making her not only a remarkable caregiver but also a beloved member of the team. Stephanie’s work is a beautiful reflection of what it means to care with both skill and heart.
“Stephanie’s compassion, energy, and genuine love for the residents shine through in everything she does…She doesn’t just do her job – she elevates it.” – Nominator
Shae Lyn Olivier – Licensed Practical Nurse, Origin at Longwood
Shae Lyn brings warmth, empathy, and exceptional skill to every interaction, making a meaningful difference in the lives of those she supports. She consistently demonstrates outstanding communication, engaging with understanding and compassion even in challenging conversations. Her ability to foster open and transparent dialogue has built trust and nurtured meaningful relationships with both community members and their families, establishing her as a reliable and supportive presence in the community.
In her significant role, Shae Lyn shows remarkable resilience and adaptability, always prioritizing the wellbeing of community members while inspiring and motivating her team. She works closely with families on transition planning, providing guidance and reassurance during difficult decisions when care needs exceed Assisted Living. Her dedication extends beyond expectations—whether through long hours, stepping in during limited LPN coverage, or responding at short notice. In her time with Origin at Longwood, she continually demonstrates her dependability and tireless commitment to high-quality care.
Shae Lyn’s professionalism, compassion, and unwavering dedication leave a lasting impact on everyone she supports. Community members seek her out knowing she will listen, advocate, and provide meaningful guidance, reflecting the deep trust she has built. Her remarkable contributions have impressed her peers and shows a great potential for growth in her career.
“I remember seeing Shae sitting with other community members comforting them in times of need both physical and mental. Shae was spoken of very highly by other community members as she made all feel special and heard.
I think the thing that sticks with me confirming Shae’s commitment to those in need be it from replacing a resident’s dropped tissue, to eye drops to more serious events like a fall or worse, was how happy my mother was and smiled large when she saw Shae. This action speaks huge when mom’s mind was fading and words were few. My mother still knew that someone kind had arrived to assist and provide a helping hand or a hand to hold and provide comfort. I think many people can provide care but it’s the method the care is delivered with compassion that sets people like Shae Lyn apart.” – Jeffrey Haverstock, Son of Margaret (Origin and Astoria Resident 2020-2025)
Rufil Ann Balanon – Assisted Living Worker, Strive Living Society – Freedom Place
Rufil embodies the heart of compassionate, resident-centered care, consistently going above and beyond to ensure every individual feels supported and at ease. Whether she is working as a care aide, stepping into housekeeping, or preparing meals in the kitchen, she brings a calm presence, meticulous attention to detail, and a genuine commitment to residents’ well-being. Her ability to form trusting connections, respond thoughtfully to unique needs, and create welcoming, dignified environments makes her a standout contributor whose impact is felt in every corner of the community.
Equally remarkable is her dedication to her colleagues and the smooth functioning of daily operations. Rufil readily takes on extra responsibilities—from training new team members to filling last-minute shifts—always with humility, positivity, and a strong sense of teamwork. Her versatility, proactive nature, and unwavering reliability elevate the standard of care and support across the entire organization. In every role she embraces, she demonstrates exceptional professionalism and compassion, making her a truly deserving nominee for recognition at the BC Care Awards.
“There is truly no one who thinks and works quite like Rufil—she is absolutely in the right place for all the right reasons. I consistently see her demonstrate genuine dedication, with every action clearly coming from the heart…Her presence on shift is uplifting; every time I see Rufil at work, I feel a sense of positivity and confidence knowing residents are in such caring hands.” – Resident
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Thank you to our award sponsor for their generous support:
Interested in attending the 12th Annual BC Care Awards? Register here.
