BC Care Providers Association is proud to be celebrating excellence in seniors’ care at the 12th Annual BC Care Awards happening on February 25, 2026, at the Fairmont Empress in Victoria, B.C. Following our previous nominee profiles for the BC Care Provider of the Year Award in Assisted Living, we are pleased to spotlight the additional nominees in this category.
Carisa Young – Assisted Living Manager at Clarendon Court, Baptist Housing
As the Assisted Living Manager at Clarendon Court for 12 years, Carisa Young has consistently demonstrated an exceptional commitment to quality, compassion, and excellence in delivering resident-centered care. She approaches every interaction with empathy, professionalism, and genuine respect, ensuring residents feel heard, valued, and supported. Her deep understanding of resident needs, paired with her ability to guide, mentor, and encourage team members, creates a nurturing, collaborative, and empowering care environment where residents and team alike can thrive.
Carisa consistently goes above and beyond the scope of her role by blending strong clinical expertise with heartfelt, personal touches that truly enrich our community. She also helps coordinate staff performances that residents eagerly anticipate each year. These performances include fun, cultural, and educational components that celebrate diversity, encourage engagement, and foster a vibrant community spirit.
Carisa takes the time to recognize the unique needs of each resident and the individual strengths of every team member, making everyone feel seen and appreciated. Her leadership empowers the team to perform at their best, which directly enhances the quality of care residents receive. Carisa truly makes Clarendon Court feel like home, a place where residents feel supported and where staff feel valued and inspired.
“She is present, involved, and always interested in all aspects of our life here. Carisa is available and interested whenever she is approached with a problem or suggestion from residents. She seems to be the driving force behind the care and love the residents receive from the staff and it’s obvious she loves the work she has chosen.” – Clarendon Court Resident, Jackie Ross.
Lynn Boucher – Housekeeping, The Cascades Community & Retirement Living
Lynn Boucher goes far beyond her housekeeping responsibilities at the Cascades Community and Retirement Living, ensuring that every resident feels supported, respected, and valued. Whether she is assisting with laundry, delivering meal trays, or simply checking in to offer a comforting presence, Lynn’s actions reflect an unwavering dedication to residents’ well-being.
For Lynn, maintaining a clean and welcoming environment is only one part of her role. Her daily routines become moments of connection, where she takes the time to build meaningful relationships with residents. The conversations, laughter, and warmth she brings into each suite create a sense of familiarity and belonging that enriches the lives of those she serves. For instance, during their fall vaccine clinic, Lynn voluntarily assisted by escorting residents to and from the clinic, offering reassurance and compassion every step of the way. She also thoughtfully arranged refreshments in the dining room, helping to create a calm, welcoming atmosphere that allowed residents to feel comfortable and cared for throughout the event. Her ability to turn routine tasks into opportunities for human connection exemplifies resident-centred care at its best.
In every aspect of her work, Lynn demonstrates an exceptional dedication to enhancing quality of life. Her proactive approach, reliability, and true passion for supporting both residents and staff make her an invaluable member of our community.
“Residents frequently express how much they appreciate Lynn’s presence. They speak warmly of the time she spends talking with them, listening to their stories, and offering genuine companionship. Many share how comforted they feel knowing that if they ever need a little extra help—whether it’s reaching for an item, getting clarification about an appointment, and or simply needing someone to check in—Lynn is always willing to lend a hand.” – Trish Giesbrecht, Executive Director
Lucy Cable – Health Care Aide at Royal Crescent Gardens
A valued member of the Royal Crescent Gardens team for 15 years, Lucy Cable has made a lasting impact on residents, staff, and family members alike as a Health Care Aide. Her unwavering can-do attitude and willingness to assist, even with residents who are not on her schedule, truly sets her apart from others.
Her compassion shines brightest in moments of challenge. During a scheduled hot water tank repair, Lucy went above and beyond to safeguard residents’ comfort and dignity. She organized laundry and shower schedules in advance, ensuring no one went without, and offered reassurance throughout the process. These thoughtful actions reflect her deep sense of responsibility and care.
Lucy’s presence is a source of joy and stability for residents at Royal Crescent Gardens. It’s common to see her chatting with residents in the hallways, sharing laughter and smiles that brighten their day. Her ability to turn routine tasks into moments of connection makes her an indispensable part of the community. Through her kindness, resourcefulness, and unwavering dedication, Lucy reminds us that true excellence in care is measured not only by what we do – but by how we make people feel.
“When Lucy takes time off, her absence is deeply felt throughout our entire community. Residents often approach team members with heartfelt questions like, ‘Where is Lucy? I haven’t seen her for day, I miss her.’ These simple words speak volume about the bond she has built with those residents in her care. Lucy’s presence brings a sense of comfort and joy that cannot be replaced. The fact that residents notice and long for her return is a testament to the extraordinary impact she has on their lives, she is not just a caregiver, but a cherished part of their family.” – Dylan Winter, Administrative Coordinator
Gayle Murphy – Assisted Living Worker at The Hamlets Westyde
For over 15 years, Gayle Murphy has been working as an Assisted Living Worker at the Hamlets Westyde. She has a great rapport with the residents and is always leading with empathy and compassion. Through the pleasant and day-to-day, as well as the somber – she offers empathy, comfort, and compassion to family members with diplomacy and kindness.
Gayle always takes the time to stop and actively listen when residents are having a hard time, she always does her best to help find a solution within the boundaries of her scope and position – she knows when to reach out if additional assistance is needed. Gayle operates with patience and understanding, she is comfortable communicating with families as needed and in having the difficult conversations when the resident decline becomes apparent, she does this with the upmost dignity.
Through her work, it is evident that Gayle truly cares about health, happiness, and wellbeing of each resident, consistently going above and beyond to ensure everyone feels supported, valued, and genuinely understood.
“Gayle always makes me feel cared for, when I first moved in I wasn’t feeling well and she made a point to come check in with me to see if I needed anything, she adjusted my throw blanket – it’s the little things you know – that show you care.” – June Hawkings, Resident
Rosario “Rose” Castro – Assisted Living Worker at the Hamlets at Vernon
Promoting the independence of residents is of utmost importance for Rose Castro, Assisted Living Worker at the Hamlets at Vernon. In particular, she champions resident-centred care by encouraging residents to participate in their own daily routines and make choices that support their dignity and confidence. Whether assisting with personal care, mobility, or activities, she provides just the right amount of support, empowering residents to maintain their abilities and sense of self-reliance.
Rose takes the time to encourage residents to remain as independent as possible through gently motivating them to participate in their own care, make their own choices, and stay engaged in daily activities. For example, she might patiently support a resident as they practice walking to meals instead of using a wheelchair or she may encourage someone to dress themselves with small prompts and praise for their efforts, making a big difference in residents’ confidence and sense of purpose.
It doesn’t matter how hectic the day may have been, Rose also finds special moments to bring the residents together. Rose does not hesitate to get an unscheduled activity or craft started for the residents and makes an extra effort to involve new residents or those that are less social to participate. Ensuring that all residents have a sense of belonging, Rose’s warmth, professionalism, and commitment to person-centered care truly embodies the spirit of compassion and excellence in assisted living.
“Rose takes the time to get to know my mom, not just her care needs, but her personality, routines, and the little things that make her smile. She treats her with warmth, patience, and respect, encouraging her to stay active and independent while always being there when she needs support. It’s clear that she’s not just being cared for, she’s being cared about. The compassion, professionalism, and genuine joy that Rose brings to her work makes all the difference. We’re so thankful to know that our mom is in such good hands and truly thriving in a place where she is safe, respected, and loved.” – Family member of resident
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Thank you to our award sponsor for their generous support:
