BC Care Providers Association highlights another six nominees for the BC Care Provider of the Year Award | Long-Term Care. The following nominees have shown exemplary commitment to providing the best quality of care for seniors in long-term care.
Winners will officially be announced in January 2025 and will be presented their awards at the BC Care Awards ceremony in Victoria, B.C. on March 4, 2025.
Emmaline Phillips – Recreation Aide, Menno Hospital at Menno Place
Emma Phillips has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to quality, compassion, and resident-centered care at Menno Place. Her leadership was key in making Menno Place the first long-term care home in Canada to earn Music Care certification. Emma’s innovative spirit is evident in the creation of the Men’s Musicking program, designed to address social isolation among the men at Menno Hospital. By using music as a tool for connection, she has fostered an environment where men feel comfortable sharing stories, reminiscing, and bonding over familiar songs.
Beyond her program development, Emma excels as a mentor, guiding recreation practicum students with kindness and wisdom. She builds strong connections with residents, tailoring programs to their individual needs and fostering a sense of belonging. Emma also nurtures the volunteer program, ensuring each volunteer feels valued and supported, further enriching the experience for residents. Her dedication sets a high standard for care and teamwork, strengthening the Menno Place community.
“She is a natural with the residents and makes everyone feel so comfortable. Music is a big part of the atmosphere and Emma takes the time to match the music to the residents’ taste. She is always looking for ways to adapt the programming so everyone can participate.” – resident
Etika Etika – Resident Care Attendant, AgeCare
Etika consistently demonstrates a strong dedication to excellence, compassion, and quality in her care for residents. She goes above and beyond to ensure each resident’s needs are met with individualized care, taking the time to learn about their challenges and preferences. For example, when a resident was experiencing emotional distress, Etika provided extra support through companionship and organized activities. Her proactive approach includes coordinating with the team to ensure comfort and seeking additional resources when necessary. Etika also plays a key role in mentoring new employees, offering guidance and setting up “shadowing” sessions to help them understand both the administrative and compassionate aspects of care. She actively contributes to team meetings, providing feedback to improve care and communication, which enhances the overall work environment and care provided to residents.
“Etika is always quick to provide emotional support and reassurance to residents who are upset or uncomfortable. By taking the time to listen to each resident, she demonstrates empathy and makes sure they feel heard and appreciated, which greatly improves their experience receiving care.”
“Etika is a great team player. She participates in team meetings to discuss about residents’ care plans. She Shares observations and coordinate tasks with other staff members. She is also good at providing emotional support to residents by listening, spending time with residents to understand their feelings and concerns.”
Fiona Yuen – Recreation Therapist, SUCCESS Multi Level Care Society
Fiona has nearly 20 years of service at SUCCESS MLC as a Recreation Therapist, enhancing the well-being of residents through innovative, resident-centered programs. She is dedicated to addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of seniors, exemplified through programs like movement-based sessions, therapeutic arts, and spiritual activities. Fiona’s leadership fosters a collaborative environment, motivating her team and volunteers to provide excellent care.
One of her standout initiatives was the trial of VR therapy with special care unit residents, supporting emotional regulation and reminiscence therapy. Fiona’s attention to detail extends beyond programs—she ensures cultural relevance by organizing special events, like a Chinese wedding celebration for staff, which brought immense joy to the residents. Fiona’s commitment goes further by saving costs and building community relationships to enhance programs, all while prioritizing the residents’ comfort and joy. Her creativity and passion make a lasting impact on the residents and staff alike.
“Fiona is a great role model who has transformed our home into a lively, joyful place. Her passion for senior care is admirable and her dedication and innovative leadership motivates everyone to strive to be the best for our senior
“Fiona transformed our outdoor garden into a Candy wonderland with large candy decors, including an ice-cream station, photobooth, candy bar and cotton candy machine which were a big hit to all attendees. Families were encouraged to bring their extended family to attend. The great grandchildren were particularly excited and they in turn made their parents, grandparents and great grandparents happy! This intergenerational program has been so popular families continue to ask us to bring it back every year.” – Teresa (staff)
Frazer R – RCA, Nanaimo Seniors Village
Frazer, a dedicated care aid at Nanaimo Seniors Village, has built strong relationships with residents in the secured neighbourhood, particularly those with complex needs and behaviours. With a deep sense of empathy, Frazer takes the time to understand each resident’s unique needs, ensuring they feel safe, secure, and respected. His communication skills are exceptional, helping create effective care plans and maintaining strong connections with staff, families, and residents.
Known for his calm demeanor, Frazer has a remarkable ability to handle challenging situations with patience and compassion. He is consistently described as gentle, reliable, and cheerful, making a lasting impact on both residents and their families. Frazer’s commitment to the well-being of others was highlighted when a former resident, recognizing him during a visit, whispered, “I miss you and thank you.” This heartfelt moment reflects the profound difference Frazer makes in the lives of those he cares for.
“Frazer is genuine, caring and compassionate. His work ethic is the definition of person-centred care. He treats every resident as an individual and is never task orientated. He approaches everyday with a positive attitude and an open mind. I would be honoured to have Frazer care for my family one day” – Director of Care
Kelly McIntyre – Licensed Practical Nurse, Fraserview Retirement Community
Kelly McIntyre consistently demonstrates outstanding dedication to compassionate care, focusing on the emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being of her residents. Her ability to connect personally with them—offering not just medical attention but meaningful companionship—sets her apart.
During the pandemic, Kelly went above and beyond to help a resident stay emotionally connected to her husband, who could not visit due to restrictions. Kelly read the husband’s letters aloud to his wife and helped her write responses. She personally delivered these letters, keeping their bond strong during a difficult time. Kelly’s commitment goes beyond just nursing care; she takes the time to ensure residents feel heard, valued, and emotionally supported, truly exemplifying excellence in nursing.
“Kelly’s passion for working with seniors is evident in everything she does. She has a unique ability to form genuine, heartfelt connections with each resident. It’s clear that Kelly sees the people she cares for as individuals, with their own stories, personalities, and needs, an attribute needed to provide true resident- centered care. She doesn’t just go through the motions; she invests emotionally in her work.” – Site Administrator
Kylie Allan – Licensed Pratical Nurse (LPN), Sidney All Care Residence
Kylie Allan, a dedicated Licensed Practical Nurse, exemplifies compassion and excellence in long-term care. As a key member of the Palliative Care Program, Kylie offers exceptional comfort and support to residents and families during their most difficult times. She goes beyond traditional nursing care by advocating for the resident and educating families on the dying process. Kylie has also developed thoughtful palliative care kits, which include items like diffusers which provide a ‘smell’ from a past experience (e.g. balsam fir, for the person who worked in forestry) or the smell of a cherished memory (e.g. cinnamon, for the person who loved spending Christmas with their grandchildren). Her focus on personalizing care demonstrates her deep respect for each individual. Kylie’s gentle and compassionate approach ensures that residents’ final moments are treated with dignity, making her a true asset to the team and a shining example of exceptional nursing care.
“Kylie’s cheerful and optimistic demeanor inspires everyone around her. Her determination, work ethic, and generosity set an outstanding example for her peers. We are incredibly grateful to have such a dedicated and hardworking nurse as part of our team.” –Community Relations Manager
Thank you to our award sponsor for their generous support:
