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Help celebrate the people moving home-based care forward.

Explore this year's nominees, read their stories, and cast your vote for the changemakers making a difference across home-based care.

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Voting closes

June 1, 2026

93

Nominees to celebrate

4

Award categories

727

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Brandis Moran
Impact and Innovation
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Brandis Moran

Vice President of Operations and Strategic Management

I would like to take a moment to formally nominate one of Integrity’s most outstanding leaders, Brandis Moran. Brandis has been a dedicated member of the Integrity team for over 10 years. Her leadership truly came to the forefront in 2021 when she was selected to spearhead the rollout of AlayaCare and stepped into the role of Systems Administrator. In this capacity, she not only mastered a complex new platform herself, but also successfully trained seven branch managers and numerous care coordinators. This was no small accomplishment, particularly in the face of significant resistance to change. Despite these challenges, Brandis demonstrated exceptional resilience and leadership as she then rolled out the AlayaCare App to over 800 caregivers. Throughout this process, Brandis consistently conducted herself with professionalism, grace, determination, and unwavering loyalty. Since the initial rollout, Brandis is now Vice President of Operations and Strategic Management and has remained instrumental in implementing ongoing updates and innovations from AlayaCare. She has been a strong advocate for continuous improvement, actively participating in pilot projects, contributing to AlayaCare case studies, and representing Integrity in speaking engagements such as Better Outcomes. Her leadership was key in advancing initiatives such as the Connector, CI Suite, and most recently, AlayaFlow. Brandis’s forward-thinking mindset and commitment to innovation played a significant role in Integrity receiving the AlayaCare Early Adopter Award last year. She continually seeks opportunities to streamline processes and enhance the experience for both caregivers and clients. Brandis Moran exemplifies leadership, innovation, and dedication, and I am proud to nominate her.

Komal Batra
Operational Excellence
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Komal Batra

Human Resources Manager

I am pleased to nominate Komal Batra, HR Manager at Ottawa Home Care, for the Operational Excellence recognition. Komal has demonstrated outstanding leadership and dedication in strengthening human resources operations while ensuring smooth and efficient organizational processes. Through her strong organizational skills and proactive approach, Komal has significantly improved HR operations including recruitment, onboarding, staff coordination, and policy implementation. She ensures that all administrative and operational processes are carried out efficiently, allowing both office staff and healthcare professionals to perform their roles effectively. Komal is known for her ability to create structured systems that support clear communication, accountability, and compliance within the organization. She consistently works to streamline procedures, improve documentation practices, and ensure that workplace policies are implemented fairly and transparently. Beyond operational management, Komal is deeply committed to supporting employees and fostering a positive workplace environment. She approaches challenges with professionalism and empathy, ensuring that staff feel heard, supported, and motivated. Her leadership and dedication have played a key role in maintaining high operational standards and enabling the organization to deliver reliable, quality care services to the community. For her commitment to efficiency, professionalism, and continuous improvement, I strongly recommend Komal Batra for the Operational Excellence nomination.

Lauren Malik
Operational Excellence
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Lauren Malik

Agency Director

Lauren Malik demonstrates operational excellence through her ability to design, scale, and sustain high-performing care operations in a fast-growth environment. As Agency Director of Caring Senior Service in Irvine, she has built one of the top-performing franchises in the national network, growing the agency from startup to $1.2 million in its first year, $2.2 million in its second, and on pace to exceed $3 million in year three. This level of growth is supported by a disciplined operational framework. Lauren has recruited and developed a workforce of more than 150 caregivers while overseeing care for more than 200 active clients. She has implemented scalable systems for scheduling, staffing, and communication that allow the organization to expand without compromising consistency or quality of care. Her leadership is defined by control in complexity. She manages high-volume coordination, staffing variability, and evolving client needs with structure and clarity, ensuring that both caregivers and families experience reliability at every stage of care. Caregivers consistently note her responsiveness and organization, while families value her ability to navigate challenging situations with confidence and professionalism. Lauren also demonstrates an ability to translate insight into action. Recognizing the impact of social isolation, she developed the “Senior Smiles” initiative to provide connection and recognition for seniors without nearby family. The program has since influenced similar efforts across the broader organization, reflecting her ability to extend operational impact beyond her own office. Lauren has created an operation that not only performs at a high level, but is built to sustain that performance as it grows. Her ability to bring structure to complexity and consistency to rapid expansion positions her as a leader whose impact extends beyond a single location and into the broader standard of home care delivery.

Michael Nappi
Executive Leadership
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Michael Nappi

Chief Operating Officer

Michael Nappi is an accomplished executive leader whose work is helping redefine how home care organizations grow, lead, and deliver care in an increasingly complex environment. With more than two decades of multi-site and multi-state leadership experience, he brings a rare combination of strategic vision, operational discipline, and people-centered leadership to one of healthcare’s fastest-growing sectors. As Chief Operating Officer of Outreach Health he supports more than 4,500 caregivers and thousands of clients, across three states. Michael is responsible for driving operational performance, workforce strategy, and sustainable growth across multiple markets. At a time when the home care industry faces unprecedented workforce shortages and rising demand for services, his leadership has focused on building scalable systems, empowering local leaders, and strengthening the operational infrastructure necessary to support reliable, high-quality care in the home. Michael has helped shape a strategic approach that aligns growth with accountability. By strengthening leadership structures, improving operational consistency across markets, and reinforcing clear standards for quality and compliance, he has ensured that expansion is paired with strong oversight and measurable performance. His ability to translate strategy into practical execution has enabled teams across the organization to operate with greater clarity, efficiency, and confidence. Equally important is Michael’s unwavering commitment to investing in people. He believes that exceptional home-based care begins with empowered teams and supported caregivers. Through mentorship, leadership development, and a culture that values transparency and collaboration, he has helped cultivate leaders across the organization who are equipped to navigate the challenges of delivering care in the home while maintaining a strong connection to the organization’s mission. Michael’s leadership reflects a broader vision for the future of home-based care; one where organizations scale thoughtfully, invest deeply in their workforce, and build operational models capable of meeting the growing needs of aging and vulnerable populations. By combining strategic leadership, operational excellence, and a culture that prioritizes both caregivers and clients, Michael Nappi is helping shape a stronger, more resilient future for home-based care.

Ifeyinwa Inoma
Impact and Innovation
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Ifeyinwa Inoma

Principal Nurse Consultant

As the founder of Emfy Health, I am seeking nomination under the Impact & Innovation category in recognition of building a nurse-led, community-centred healthcare model that directly addresses critical gaps in access, continuity, and quality of care. I established Emfy Health in response to what I repeatedly witnessed in practice: patients with wounds, foot complications, ostomy needs, and chronic illnesses experiencing long delays, fragmented services, and preventable deterioration simply because specialty care was not easily accessible. Rather than accept this systemic barrier, I designed a mobile and hybrid care model that brings advanced nursing services directly to patients; at home, in long-term care, and in community settings. My impact is demonstrated through: Improving Access to Specialized Care: I created a service that removes traditional barriers such as transportation, waitlists, and mobility limitations by delivering evidence-based clinical care directly to patients. This approach particularly benefits seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those managing complex chronic conditions. Innovating Nurse-Led Healthcare Delivery: Emfy Health operates on a framework that maximizes scope of practice, supports early intervention, and reduces unnecessary emergency department visits and hospitalizations. This model demonstrates how advanced nursing leadership can improve outcomes while reducing system burden. Integrating Clinical Excellence with Business Innovation: I built Emfy Health as a sustainable healthcare enterprise, combining clinical expertise with operational systems, digital coordination, and scalable service delivery. This entrepreneurial approach proves that high-quality care and fiscal responsibility can coexist, creating a replicable model for future community health services. Strengthening Healthcare Capacity: Beyond direct patient care, I provide education and support to frontline staff in partner facilities, improving wound prevention practices, continence management, and early identification of complications, multiplying impact beyond individual encounters. Championing Preventive, Patient-Centred Care: My model emphasizes prevention, education, and empowerment, helping patients understand their conditions, participate actively in their care, and maintain independence wherever possible. This reduces complications and improves quality of life. Advancing Health Equity Through Innovation: By designing services around patient realities, not institutional convenience, I have created a flexible, culturally responsive care model that reaches underserved populations and promotes equitable access to healthcare. Through Emfy Health, I have demonstrated how nurse-led innovation can reshape community healthcare delivery. My work integrates clinical leadership, entrepreneurship, and system-level thinking to improve access, enhance outcomes, and support sustainability. This nomination reflects not only the creation of a healthcare business, but the development of a meaningful solution to real-world healthcare challenges, driven by compassion, evidence, and innovation.

Jeet Shweta SHANGARI
Impact and Innovation
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Jeet Shweta SHANGARI

Operations Manager & CCM

BrightStar Care Acton/Andover & Lowell is proud to be considered for the Impact & Innovation Award for the transformative care and forward-thinking practices our team brings to home and hospice care. Our 80+ licensed nurses and professional caregivers consistently deliver 5-star–rated care to the most medically complex and vulnerable clients across 12+ towns. What sets us apart is not only clinical excellence but also innovation in how we deliver care. BrightStar Care has embraced advanced technology and AI tools to improve efficiency, safety, and outcomes. Staff document care electronically, replacing traditional paper records, and use AI-enabled tools to monitor patient health, track medications, and manage complex clinical needs such as wound care, oxygen therapy, ventilator management, respiratory care, and palliative support. These innovations allow our nurses and caregivers to spend more time providing direct care, improving productivity, and ensuring precision in every intervention. Our commitment to innovation extends to continuous staff education. Through programs like Relias training, ongoing clinical workshops, and AI/technology-focused learning sessions, we enhance staff expertise in home care, infection prevention, wound management, and specialized clinical skills. This culture of continuous learning ensures that our team remains at the forefront of home health care, equipped to manage complex cases with confidence and compassion. Beyond direct care, we leverage innovation to empower our community. Free educational series on AI, technology, fall-risk prevention, and home care, along with free wellness clinics, yoga sessions, and music and piano events, help families and seniors stay informed, safe, and engaged. By combining cutting-edge clinical tools with community-centered programs, we not only impact the lives of individual clients but strengthen the overall health, safety, and well-being of the Boston-area community. BrightStar Care Acton/Andover & Lowell exemplifies how innovation, technology, and compassionate care can intersect to transform home and hospice care—making a measurable difference in patients’ lives and the communities we serve. Website: https://www.brightstarcare.com/locations/acton-andover-lowell/ Community Impact & Free Programs: https://www.brightstarcare.com/locations/acton-andover-lowell/about-us/blog/caring-beyond-the-home-how-brightstar-care-tewksbury-is-educating-empowering-our-local-community/

Jamilla Mansoor
Frontline Care
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Jamilla Mansoor

Founder

I am nominating myself for the Home-Based Care Momentum Awards in the changemakers in Frontline Care category because my work is rooted in direct, hands-on clinical care delivered where it matters most: in clients’ homes and community settings across Calgary and surrounding areas. I am a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and the Founder and sole operator of Soleful Harmony, a mobile foot care service designed for people who face real barriers to accessing clinic-based care—especially individuals living with diabetes, circulation concerns, mobility limitations, arthritis/autoimmune conditions, poor eyesight, and complex health needs. Many of my clients are older adults or medically vulnerable individuals who would otherwise delay care until a small issue becomes an infection, ulcer, or hospitalization risk. My goal is simple and urgent: prevent complications, protect dignity, and improve quality of life—one visit at a time. Frontline impact: safety, outcomes, and dignity in the home. In home-based care, trust and safety are everything. I bring clinical-grade, evidence-based foot care directly to clients in their preferred setting—private homes, hospitals, senior care facilities, and community spaces—while maintaining a standard of infection prevention that reflects my nursing training and commitment to best practice. I perform lower limb assessments, provide education, and deliver skilled foot care services including nail care and debridement of corns/calluses when clinically appropriate. Each appointment is structured, thorough, and client-centred, with a strong focus on comfort, consent, and respectful communication. My clients choose mobile care because it reduces stress, transportation barriers, and physical strain—especially for those with pain, limited mobility, or chronic illness. I consistently hear that what stands out is not only the convenience, but the way I treat the whole person: calm, compassionate, and clinically confident, while explaining findings in clear language and supporting families/caregivers with practical education. Raising the bar: hospital-grade infection control in a mobile model I have invested heavily—financially and professionally—in delivering safe care in non-traditional environments. I follow recognized standards (AHS/CLPNA and professional foot care best practices) and use a Health Canada/AHS-approved autoclave to ensure sterilization and infection control processes meet a high clinical threshold. I maintain sterilization and maintenance logs and use clean/dirty transport systems to protect clients, families, and facilities I enter. This level of rigor is not always expected in mobile services—but I believe it should be. My work helps reduce preventable complications and supports safer aging-in-place for clients who deserve high-quality care without sacrificing dignity or safety. Momentum through leadership, education, and representation Beyond direct care, I contribute to momentum in home-based care through education and community presence. I have served as a guest speaker and panel participant for Black History Month, using my lived experience and professional expertise to support representation, culturally competent care, and meaningful dialogue in healthcare spaces. I bring a perspective grounded in frontline reality: what clients need, what families struggle with, and what systems can do better to support care in the home. Recognition and credibility My work has been recognized through industry/community acknowledgement, including being a Canadian Choice Award winner for Foot Care Services – Calgary (2026). This recognition reflects not only service quality, but the trust I’ve built with clients who often feel overlooked or rushed in traditional settings. Why I’m a fit for Changemakers in Frontline Care Home-based care is built on small moments that add up to life-changing impact—showing up reliably, noticing early warning signs, educating with patience, and delivering skilled care with compassion. That is exactly what I do. I create momentum by: - Improving client comfort, mobility, and confidence through consistent, skilled foot care - Supporting prevention for high-risk clients (especially those with diabetes/circulation concerns) - Bringing hospital-grade infection control and professionalism into the home setting - Treating every client with dignity, warmth, and person-centred respect - Extending my impact through education, speaking, and community leadership I’m proud to represent frontline caregivers who build trust in living rooms, bedrooms, and community spaces—quietly preventing complications and helping people stay safe at home.

Katy Packingham
Operational Excellence
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Katy Packingham

Agency Director

Katy Packingham demonstrates operational excellence by turning relationships into results. As Agency Director of Caring Senior Service in Galesburg, Illinois, she has helped reshape the trajectory of the office, more than doubling weekly care hours from just over 450 to more than 1,000 within her first year in a management role. Her leadership approach is rooted in experience. Having started her career as a caregiver, Katy understands the realities of the role and the importance of building an environment where caregivers feel supported and valued. That perspective carries through in her leadership, where she prioritizes connection, communication, and consistency as the foundation for growth. Katy’s impact extends beyond internal operations. She has built strong relationships with referral partners, strengthened trust with families, and positioned the Galesburg office as a dependable resource within the local community. Her ability to balance day-to-day operational demands with meaningful relationship-building has allowed the agency to grow in both scale and reputation. She is also deeply engaged in the broader senior care landscape, contributing to organizations such as Dementia Friendly Galesburg, the Prairieland Senior Focus Group, the Alzheimer’s Association, and Rotary. Her leadership has been recognized through honors including “The Voice of Caring” and being named one of Galesburg’s Top 5 Under 40 Leaders Making the Greatest Impact for 2025. Known for her willingness to step in wherever needed, Katy leads by example. Whether supporting caregivers, working with families, or strengthening community partnerships, she brings a steady, people-first approach that drives both performance and trust. Katy’s leadership shows that strong operations are built through strong relationships. By investing in her team, her clients, and her community, she has created an environment where growth is not forced, but earned, and where success is shared across everyone involved in the care journey.

Brittani Deuth
Operational Excellence
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Brittani Deuth

Agency Director

Brittani Deuth exemplifies operational excellence through her ability to build, stabilize, and elevate a home care agency while remaining deeply connected to both clients and caregivers. As Agency Director of Caring Senior Service in Lakewood, Colorado, she has played a central role in transforming the office from a small, early-stage operation into a high-performing, multi-million-dollar agency. Brittani’s career in home care began on the frontlines. Coming from a caregiving family and working directly with clients early in her career, she quickly demonstrated a natural ability to build trust and deliver exceptional care. Her impact was evident from the start, as she helped win over clients and families through her dedication and reliability, setting the tone for the kind of service the organization strives to provide. As she transitioned into leadership, Brittani took on the challenge of building and managing a new office, often operating as the sole team member during its early stages. Through persistence, adaptability, and a hands-on approach, she guided the Lakewood location through its formative years and into sustained growth. Under her leadership, the office reached $2 million in annual billing and became a consistent performer within the organization’s Champions’ Circle. What distinguishes Brittani’s leadership is her commitment to both operational performance and team sustainability. She has been instrumental in developing and implementing programs that improve both service delivery and employee experience, including a weekend on-call structure that has enhanced work-life balance not only for her own team, but for multiple offices across Colorado. Her leadership has also influenced the adoption of caregiver support programs, such as lead caregiver and on-call systems, which have strengthened staffing stability and reduced burnout. Brittani remains closely involved in all aspects of care delivery, from mentoring team members to supporting clients directly when needed. Her background as a caregiver informs her leadership style, fostering a culture where team members feel heard, supported, and empowered to succeed. This approach has contributed to strong relationships with referral partners and consistently positive feedback from caregivers. Brittani’s impact is rooted in experience, persistence, and a willingness to take ownership at every level of the operation. The systems she has built and the standards she upholds continue to shape not only her own office, but the way others approach care delivery across the organization.

Melissa Therrien
Operational Excellence
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Melissa Therrien

General Manager, Alberta & British Columbia

Melissa Therrien is the General Manager of Ohana Care Health Services, a Canadian-owned, non-franchise home care company operating across Alberta and British Columbia. As a Registered Nurse with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Bachelor of Arts, Melissa brings both clinical expertise and strategic business acumen to a role that spans virtually every function of the organization. Over the past three years, she has been the driving force behind Ohana Care’s growth, operational excellence, and reputation as a trusted partner in home-based care for hundreds of clients. Why Melissa Deserves This Award Multi-Province Operational Leadership Melissa oversees all operations across four service regions—Edmonton, Calgary, Vancouver, and Vancouver Island—managing hundreds of caregivers and a full-time administrative team. She has built scalable systems and processes that maintain consistent, high-quality care delivery across two provinces, diverse communities, and growing client demand. Under her leadership, Ohana Care has achieved Accreditation Canada certification, a credential that speaks to the organization’s commitment to safety, quality, and operational rigour. Measurable Business Growth In her three years as General Manager, Melissa has driven millions of dollars in annual revenue growth. This wasn’t achieved through aggressive sales tactics—it was built on a foundation of relationship-based care, exceptional client outcomes, and a reputation that generates referrals organically. Families choose Ohana Care and stay with Ohana Care because of the standard Melissa has set. A True Operational Swiss Army Knife What sets Melissa apart from most operational leaders is the breadth of her involvement. On any given day, Melissa is working across: • Sales and client onboarding – personally handling intake calls, navigating reluctant clients into care, and developing creative solutions for complex family situations • Marketing and brand building – hosting Ohana Care’s podcast, Caring Conversations, which has produced 12+ episodes educating families on home care topics and positioning Ohana Care as a thought leader • Operations and scheduling – coordinating care plans, managing caregiver matching, and overseeing 24/7 scheduling support • Hiring and recruitment – working alongside HR to attract, screen, and retain top caregiving talent in a competitive market • Billing and financial oversight – managing invoicing, navigating Alberta’s Client Directed Home Care Invoicing (CDHCI) program, and ensuring financial sustainability • Executive leadership – participating in strategic planning and decision-making with the executive team She doesn’t delegate these responsibilities because they’re beneath her—she stays involved because she believes great operations require hands-on leadership at every level. Client Impact and Reputation Ohana Care has earned the trust of thousands of clients and accumulated 700+ reviews. Clients and families consistently describe Melissa as knowledgeable, compassionate, and genuinely invested in their well-being. She has championed Ohana Care’s relationship-based care model—one that prioritizes consistent caregiver matching, personalized care plans, and the philosophy that every client should be treated like family. This isn’t a tagline for Melissa; it’s how she operates every day. Her clinical background as an RN gives her a unique ability to bridge the gap between frontline caregiving and operational decision-making. She understands what caregivers face in the home, and she builds systems that support them rather than adding burden. Employee Experience and Culture Melissa’s leadership style is proactive, firm, and caring—a combination that has earned deep respect from her team. She sets high expectations but backs them with genuine support, clear communication, and a willingness to roll up her sleeves alongside her staff. Caregivers trust her because she understands their work. Administrative staff rely on her because she leads with clarity and consistency. In an industry plagued by burnout and turnover, Melissa has built a culture where people want to stay and grow. Community and Industry Visibility Beyond internal operations, Melissa has raised Ohana Care’s profile through public-facing efforts, such as supporting partnerships with healthcare professionals, hospitals, and community organizations across Alberta and British Columbia. She has positioned Ohana Care as a credible, trusted voice in home-based care—not through self-promotion, but through consistent, values-driven action. Summary Melissa Therrien is not just an operational leader—she is the engine behind Ohana Care’s growth, quality, and culture. She manages two provinces, hundreds of caregivers, and every functional area of the business with a level of dedication that is rare in any industry, let alone one as demanding as home-based care. Her clients trust her. Her employees respect her. And the business results speak for themselves. If the Operational Excellence award is meant to recognize someone who elevates every dimension of a home care organization—from the client experience to the caregiver experience to the bottom line—Melissa Therrien is that person.

Jeff Salter
Impact and Innovation
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Jeff Salter

founder and CEO

Jeff Salter has been at the forefront of innovation in home care by consistently advancing how technology can improve the delivery of care. As founder and CEO of Caring Senior Service, he has spent years building a model that integrates digital tools into every aspect of the care experience, strengthening communication, coordination, and outcomes for seniors and their families. Long before the recent surge in interest around artificial intelligence, Jeff recognized that the future of home care would depend on the thoughtful use of technology. Through the development of proprietary systems like Tendio, he helped address one of the industry’s most persistent challenges: fragmented operations. By connecting care planning, scheduling, communication, and documentation into a unified experience, his approach has enabled care teams to operate more efficiently while maintaining a high standard of personalized service. Building on this foundation, Jeff has embraced artificial intelligence as the next step in improving care delivery. Rather than treating AI as a standalone solution, he has integrated it into existing workflows to enhance decision-making, streamline communication, and reduce administrative burden. This allows caregivers to spend less time navigating systems and more time focused on meaningful interactions with clients. The impact of this approach is evident across the care ecosystem. Care teams are better equipped to respond quickly to changing client needs, families have greater visibility into care, and operations are able to scale more effectively without sacrificing quality. By combining long-standing technology infrastructure with emerging AI capabilities, Jeff has created a model that supports both efficiency and consistency in care delivery. What distinguishes Jeff’s leadership is his long-term vision. He has not approached innovation as a series of isolated tools, but as a continuous effort to improve how care is delivered. His early investment in technology laid the groundwork for more advanced capabilities today, allowing his organization to adopt AI in a way that is practical, responsible, and aligned with the needs of caregivers and clients. Through his leadership, Jeff Salter has helped shape a more modern, connected approach to home care, demonstrating that meaningful innovation comes not from a single breakthrough, but from a sustained commitment to improving the way care is delivered over time.

Caleb Roseme
Operational Excellence
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Caleb Roseme

Chief Operations Officer

Caleb Roseme is a systems-focused home care operator whose measurable results, sector-leading workforce programs, and demonstrated policy leadership make him a strong nominee for Operational Excellence and Impact & Innovation within the Home Care industry in Southeastern Connecticut (New London County) and Rhode Island (Kent County / Warwick). First, he has helped build (and scale) a repeatable workforce engine that directly addresses the industry’s defining constraint—recruitment, training, and retention—through ASQ’s in-house Empower Training Academy and structured certification pathways (Personal Care Aide program (PCA) in Connecticut; CNA training in Rhode Island). ASQ reports that since 2017 it has trained 200+ new home caregivers via its PCA program, and it has developed structured curricula designed to accelerate “career changers” to job readiness within weeks. Second, he has driven technology-enabled operating discipline in a sector often characterized by manual scheduling, inconsistent communication, and reactive staffing. Third, he has repeatedly represented Connecticut’s home care sector in formal public testimony and association leadership, including service as Chair of the Home Care Committee and Board Member of the Connecticut Association for Healthcare at Home, advocating for sustainable Medicaid funding and pragmatic regulatory approaches that protect client safety without worsening access gaps during staffing call-outs. Roseme’s work is validated by external recognition for ASQ including “Best of Home Care” awards (Home Care Pulse / Activated Insights), national TV feature as a “World’s Greatest!…” home care agency (How2Media), and a Rhode Island accreditation claim via CHAP (Community Health Accreditation Partner)—an accreditation body whose Home Care standards explicitly cover personal care/companion care and emphasize standardized processes and service quality. Roseme is helping professionalize home care operations where the stakes are high (frailty, dementia, falls risk, caregiver shortage), and he is building scalable mechanisms—training systems, technology infrastructure, and policy improvements—that make quality more consistent than “heroic effort” alone.

Cassandra Bernard
Impact and Innovation
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Cassandra Bernard

Clinical Nursing Supervisor

I am pleased to nominate Cassandra Bernard for recognition as an outstanding Nurse and Clinical Supervisor. She consistently exemplifies excellence in both clinical practice and leadership. Her clinical knowledge is exceptional. She is thorough in her assessments, thoughtful in her decision-making, and consistently ensures that patients receive safe, high-quality care. Her attention to detail and strong clinical judgment make her a trusted resource for both patients and staff. As a Clinical Supervisor, she goes above and beyond to support and educate fellow nurses. She prioritizes mentorship, ensuring that team members feel confident, competent, and supported in their roles. She is an excellent trainer who takes the time to teach, explain, and guide with patience and professionalism. Her commitment to ongoing education strengthens not only individual nurses but the entire team. Her communication skills are outstanding. She advocates effectively for both patients and nurses, ensuring concerns are heard and addressed appropriately. She fosters a culture of collaboration, respect, and accountability. Her dedication to customer service is evident in the way she interacts with patients and families—always compassionate and responsive. In addition to her clinical and leadership strengths, she is incredibly hardworking and innovative. She is always seeking better processes, improved outcomes, and new ways to support her team. She consistently goes above and beyond expectations, demonstrating reliability, initiative, and a true passion for nursing. She is a role model, a mentor, and a strong advocate for quality care. I wholeheartedly recommend her for this recognition, as she truly embodies excellence in nursing leadership and patient care.

Eric Dalton
Impact and Innovation
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Eric Dalton

Vice President

Eric Dalton is nominated for the Impact & Innovation award for his leadership in redefining how specialized neurological and dementia care can be delivered in the home. As Vice President of Angels on Call Homecare, Eric has helped transform a family-founded agency into a nationally recognized model for complex home-based care while advancing standards across the industry. Recognizing that traditional homecare models were not designed to meet the complex needs of individuals living with Dementia and Parkinson’s disease, Eric set out to build a new framework one that integrates specialized caregiver training, clinical oversight, and innovative service design. Under his leadership, Angels on Call became the first homecare provider in the United States Accredited in Certified Parkinson’s Disease Care (CPDC™) and the first Accredited healthcare organization in New York to achieve Purple Flag Dementia Care Accreditation. The organization has also been recognized as a Community Partner in Parkinson’s Care (CPPC) by the Parkinson’s Foundation and as an Age-Friendly Health System – Committed to Care Excellence through the Institute for Healthcare Improvement, reinforcing its commitment to advancing evidence-informed home-based care. Eric has pioneered several innovative programs designed to restore dignity, engagement, and quality of life for individuals living with cognitive decline. These include the Memory Care Angel (MCA) program, the Guardian Angel RN initiative, and Timeless Beauty Spa—the first in-home beauty spa program designed specifically for individuals living with dementia and cognitive impairment. The program is delivered by a Licensed Practical Nurse who is also a licensed cosmetologist and dementia-certified professional, ensuring services are provided with both clinical understanding and therapeutic sensitivity. This unique combination helps restore important rituals of personal care, confidence, and identity that are often lost during illness. Innovation for Eric also extends beyond direct care to strengthening the caregiving ecosystem for families. He launched Angels Embrace, a free support group providing education, guidance, and connection for families navigating Dementia and Parkinson’s disease. The program creates a trusted space where caregivers and loved ones can share experiences, learn practical strategies, and access reliable resources while navigating complex care journeys. Eric is equally committed to advancing the future of the caregiving workforce. He led the development of a licensed PCA training school that provides free certification opportunities, expanding the healthcare workforce while creating meaningful career pathways for individuals entering the field. Under Eric’s leadership, Angels on Call has also implemented data-driven quality monitoring systems that track clinical indicators such as falls, infections, and safety outcomes across the care population. These efforts demonstrate how structured training, clinical oversight, and specialized programming can contribute to safer home environments, with caregiver supervised care associated with significantly lower fall incidence compared to overall client exposure. Through this work, Eric Dalton is not only improving outcomes for individuals and families today he is helping shape a future in which specialized dementia and neurological care can be safely and effectively delivered at home, expanding what is possible for home-based healthcare across the industry.

9 votes
Kam Muthulingam
Impact and Innovation
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Kam Muthulingam

Director of Information Technology Solutions

The Problem Worth Solving For caregivers already carrying the emotional weight of a child's diagnosis, the last thing they should have to manage is a phone queue. Yet that was the reality: confirming or cancelling a therapy appointment meant a missed call, time on hold, and back-and-forth with clinical and administrative teams every single time. KidsAbility's team under the leadership of Kam Muthulingam saw this friction and asked a different question. Instead of "how do we remind families?", they asked: "how do we make it effortless for families to respond?" What began as a straightforward question became something far more significant: a reimagining of how a healthcare organization communicates with the families it serves. By harnessing the AlayaCare Connector tool, the team built a personalized, automated reminder system that doesn't just notify families. It empowers them to respond, confirm, and cancel in seconds, directly from their phone or inbox, without ever calling the Centre. The result is a solution that is quietly transformative. Families experience less friction and more control. Clinical and administrative staff gain real-time visibility and fewer manual tasks. And KidsAbility moves closer to the kind of modern, responsive care delivery that families deserve. Putting Families First The solution redesigned appointment communication from the ground up replacing one-way, passive reminders with two-way, actionable messages that meet caregivers where they are. Through personalized email and SMS reminders, caregivers can now confirm or cancel directly from the message itself — no call required, no back-and-forth. Communication is sent to all primary contacts with consistent, clear language, eliminating confusion and duplication across households. Within the first month of launch, 70% of families confirmed their appointments directly through the reminder message — displacing those calls entirely and giving caregivers genuine control over their child's schedule. This is not a minor convenience improvement. For a family navigating multiple therapies across occupational, speech, and physiotherapy disciplines, this change removes a recurring source of administrative burden from an already demanding caregiving role. The Innovation Behind the Experience What feels effortless to a caregiver is the result of a highly sophisticated, carefully designed workflow built within the AlayaCare Connector tool. This was not a configuration exercise; it required the team to architect for new logic, design decision trees, and build integration pathways that did not previously exist within the platform. Key engineering decisions that made this possible: Intelligent timing. Automated two-stage reminder cadence, with messages sent 5 business days and again 24 hours before each appointment timed to maximize response rates and minimize last-minute disruptions. Multi-discipline sync. Cross-discipline calendar synchronization, where a single caregiver response updates all clinicians, schedules simultaneously eliminating siloed communication and ensuring coordinated care across the care team. Live system updates. Real-time AlayaCare integration with connector, routing confirmations and cancellations directly into the Alayacare without any manual intervention, preserving data integrity at the point of response. Instant staff alerts. Immediate clinician notification upon any schedule change enabling faster backfilling, improved capacity utilization, and proactive waitlist management. Safety-first design. Built-in custody safeguards, protecting sensitive family situations by controlling which contacts receive communications a non-trivial design challenge with real clinical and legal implications. Caregiver autonomy. Integrated unsubscribe functionality, respecting caregiver communication preferences while maintaining compliance and organizational trust. The result is a seamless front-end experience powered by robust, real-world-ready automation demonstrating that thoughtful technical design and client-centered care are not competing priorities. Measurable Impact Currently live within one of KidsAbility's major in-centre programs, this initiative is already delivering results across three dimensions: Caregiver experience: Families gain autonomy and time back managing appointments on their schedule, not ours. Operational efficiency: Administrative and clinical staff benefit from reduced inbound call volume, real-time schedule visibility, and faster response to cancellations. Capacity optimization: Immediate notification of cancellations enables same-day backfilling, turning what was previously lost appointment time into recovered access for families on waitlists. 70% direct confirmation rate in month one, a strong early signal that families are engaging with the system exactly as intended. What Comes Next This project was designed to scale. The architecture now in place within AlayaCare Connector is adaptable across all KidsAbility programs and communication types positioning the organization to extend this seamless experience to every family we serve, regardless of discipline or program location. By developing, piloting, and championing this solution from within, the KidsAbility team has done more than solving an operational problem. They have redefined what modern, family-centered care delivery looks like and built the infrastructure to make it the standard. That is the spirit of innovation this award recognizes.

8 votes
Shweta Jeet SHANGARI
Frontline Care
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Shweta Jeet SHANGARI

Owner & Operations Manager

BrightStar Care Acton/Andover & Lowell is proud to be eligible for the Frontline Care Award because our team consistently delivers exceptional, 5-star–rated care to some of the most medically complex and vulnerable individuals in our community—while leading with compassion, resilience, and genuine heart. Supported by a dedicated team of 80+ licensed nurses and professional caregivers, our frontline staff provides round-the-clock, hospital-level care at home across 12+ towns. We care for clients facing advanced cancer, Stage 3 and 4 pressure ulcers, hospice needs, ALS, Parkinson’s disease, dementia, and other highly complex conditions that demand advanced clinical expertise, emotional strength, and unwavering dedication. These are not routine cases—yet our team shows up every day and night to ensure safety, dignity, comfort, and continuity of care, allowing clients to heal and live with dignity in the place they call home. What truly sets BrightStar Care apart is not just clinical excellence, but how deeply we care. Our nurses and caregivers treat every client like their own family, taking the time to listen, comfort, advocate, and stand beside families during their most difficult moments. We don’t just provide care—we build trust, bring comfort, and become a source of strength when families need it most. Families frequently tell us, “You were a godsend,” and “You helped us through our hardest time,” affirming the life-changing impact of our frontline team. Beyond direct care, BrightStar Care is deeply committed to giving back and strengthening the Boston-area community. We actively invest in community well-being by offering free educational series on topics such as AI, technology, and fall-risk prevention; free health check-up clinics including blood pressure and diabetes screenings; community wellness programs; and free yoga and wellness events. These initiatives are designed to empower families with knowledge, confidence, and resources, helping them stay informed, proactive, and supported. Our mission goes beyond caring for people in crisis—we strive to improve overall community health, safety, and quality of life. Through compassion, clinical excellence, tireless frontline dedication, and meaningful community involvement, BrightStar Care Acton/Andover & Lowell exemplifies the true spirit of frontline care and is honored to be considered for this award. Website: https://www.brightstarcare.com/locations/acton-andover-lowell/ Community Impact & Free Programs: https://www.brightstarcare.com/locations/acton-andover-lowell/about-us/blog/caring-beyond-the-home-how-brightstar-care-tewksbury-is-educating-empowering-our-local-community/

6 votes
Sandra Beauchamp
Executive Leadership
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Sandra Beauchamp

Présidente directrice

Candidature – Agent de changement en leadership de la direction Sandra, Présidente-Directrice de la franchise Bien Chez Soi Aylmer–Pontiac Présentation : Sandra, propriétaire et Présidente-Directrice de Bien Chez Soi Aylmer–Pontiac depuis juin 2024 se distingue par son leadership proactif, créatif et profondément humain. Toujours à la recherche de solutions innovantes, elle optimise les opérations tout en valorisant et en mobilisant son équipe. Sa capacité à déléguer, à encourager les forces de chacun et à maintenir un environnement collaboratif unique fait d’elle une leader inspirante et accessible. Contributions clés : • Gestion des opérations et ressources humaines : Embauche et accompagnement du personnel, planification des horaires, suivi personnalisé des employés, mise en place de documents et procédures pour structurer les services et réduire les erreurs. • Soutien et développement des équipes : Rencontres régulières, formation continue, implantation des nouveautés AlayaCare, bilans hebdomadaires et activités de cohésion. • Développement local et régional : Multiples partenariats et visites auprès de municipalités, cliniques, pharmacies et organismes communautaires, notamment : la Maison des Collines (soins palliatifs), la Société Alzheimer Outaouais, Action santé Outaouais, la Fondation québécoise du cancer, et les mairies de Chelsea et Gatineau. Ces actions ont augmenté l’accessibilité et la visibilité des services dans toute la région. Leadership et impact : • Innovation et créativité : Trouve des solutions adaptées aux défis opérationnels et aux besoins spécifiques des clients et employés, assurant un service optimal. • Empathie et relation client : Rencontre chaque famille avant le début des services pour écouter et rassurer, offrant un suivi personnalisé et attentif. • Visibilité et influence : Participation active à des associations professionnelles et initiatives locales (RFAQ, APICA, CCG, Cercle des femmes d’impact), contribuant au développement de la franchise et au rayonnement du secteur. • Optimisation des processus et procédures, réduisant les erreurs et augmentant l’efficacité opérationnelle. • Engagement et mobilisation du personnel renforcés par un leadership positif et valorisant. • Développement de partenariats locaux et régionaux, augmentant la portée des services et la satisfaction des clients. • Présence médiatique et actions de visibilité, renforçant la notoriété et la crédibilité de la franchise dans l’Outaouais. Sandra incarne le leadership visionnaire et humain. Par son action stratégique, son empathie, sa créativité et son engagement à valoriser son équipe, elle contribue directement à l’amélioration continue des soins à domicile, au succès de la franchise et au rayonnement du secteur dans la région.

4 votes
Sharon Burton-Young
Frontline Care
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Sharon Burton-Young

CEO/Director, Clinical Nurse Manager

In 2015 Sharon-Burton Young founded Gracious Heart Nursing Services, LLC with a clear and heartfelt mission "Delivering specialized nursing care with compassion" and "Gracious Heart Staff does it with Hearts." This guiding principle continues to shape the company's culture and commitment to excellence. Sharon journey in healthcare started at a young age, receiving her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Delaware in 1988 and over 40years of nursing experience and more than two decades of which have been dedicate to homecare. Sharon has worked in many fast-paced environments, including the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Coronary Care Unit (CCU) and Emergency Department (ED). These experiences equipped her with extensive clinical expertise, critical thinking skills, and leadership capabilities that now empower her to guide her nursing staff at Gracious Heart in delivering high-tech nursing care with EXCELLENCE. Under Sharon's leadership, Gracious Heart Nursing Services has partnered with a variety of specialty pharmacies and licensed prescribers to ensure seamless, coordinated care for thousands of patients receiving infusion therapy in the comfort of their homes. The patients served by the organization represent a wide range of diagnoses for which infusion services are an essential component of treatment. As a hands-on leader Sharon takes pride in educating and working alongside of her team (28 register nurses and 4 administrative professionals). Sharon leads by example, never asking more of her staff than she is willing to give herself, by remaining accessible and actively involved, fosters a culture of unwavering passion, accountability and shared purposed. Sharon is a true meaning of a TRAILBLAZER!!!

3 votes
Lyne Pruneau
Operational Excellence
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Lyne Pruneau

Coordonnatrice principale aux opérations

Je tiens à souligner de façon toute particulière le travail exceptionnel de notre coordonnatrice principale, Lyne Pruneau, qui contribue au succès de Bien Chez Soi Laval Rive-Nord depuis maintenant 4 ans. Au fil des années, Lyne s’est démarquée par un dévouement hors du commun, une rigueur exemplaire et une qualité de travail remarquable. Son sens de l’organisation, sa capacité à gérer des situations complexes, son souci du détail, sa fiabilité et son professionnalisme font d’elle une ressource absolument essentielle à nos opérations quotidiennes. Dans un domaine comme le nôtre, où la coordination, la communication, la rapidité d’exécution et la fiabilité sont au cœur de la qualité des services offerts à nos clients, son travail fait une différence réelle, concrète et mesurable, chaque jour. Derrière de nombreuses réussites, de nombreux dossiers bien gérés, des horaires optimisés, des situations délicates réglées et des clients bien servis, il y a très souvent le travail discret, mais extrêmement efficace, de Lyne. Lyne est une personne sur qui nous pouvons toujours compter. Elle fait son travail avec sérieux, intelligence, jugement et un grand sens des responsabilités. Elle ne compte pas ses efforts, cherche toujours des solutions et contribue directement à la stabilité, à l’efficacité, à la croissance et à la réputation de qualité de Bien Chez Soi Laval Rive-Nord. Son engagement envers l’entreprise, son professionnalisme et sa constance dans la qualité de son travail font d’elle un pilier de notre organisation et une collègue extrêmement précieuse.

2 votes
Lindsey Klebenow
Executive Leadership
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Lindsey Klebenow

Owner

Lindsey Klebenow’s story doesn’t begin with a title or an award—it begins with a little girl, just nine years old, learning how to care for her grandmother on a remote island where help didn’t exist. There were no resources, no guidance—just love, resilience, and a determination to figure things out together. That experience didn’t just shape her childhood; it quietly built the foundation for the woman she would become. Years later, Lindsey carried that same determination with her to Montana, where she attended Montana State University. While earning her bachelor’s degree in Community Health with a minor in Gerontology, she didn’t just study caregiving—she lived it. She became a CNA and an EMT, working hands-on in assisted living, memory care, and eventually home care. It was never just a job to her; it was a calling that had started long before she even knew what to call it. But Lindsey didn’t stop there. While continuing her work in home care, she took a leap that few would dare—she became a business owner. At the same time, she was accepted into the prestigious USC School of Gerontology. Over the next three years, she balanced running a company, completing her master’s degree, and welcoming a new baby into her life. Where most would feel overwhelmed, Lindsey pressed forward with quiet strength and unwavering purpose. After graduating, she saw a gap in care that needed to be filled—and she acted. She purchased a commercial building and created something Montana had never seen before: the state’s first standalone adult day center. Not only that, she worked to pave the way for the VA to authorize adult day services separately from respite care, opening doors for countless families. Today, that vision is thriving. And still, she wasn’t finished. Lindsey went on to found the Montana Gerontology Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to providing financial support for elderly individuals living with disabilities and dementia across the state. In true Lindsey fashion, she didn’t think small—she organized a major benefit concert featuring country artist Jay Allen to raise funds and awareness, turning compassion into action on a grand scale. Yet, through all of this, Lindsey remains grounded in what matters most. She is, above all, an incredible mother and a devoted wife. Her love and unwavering support for her husband, who lives with a traumatic brain injury, reflect the same compassion she brings to every part of her life. No matter how much she takes on, she never wavers in her commitment to her family. Despite everything she has accomplished, Lindsey remains humble, kind, and deeply empathetic. She carries herself with integrity that is rare—honest, genuine, and as solid as a Montana handshake. She may be constantly balancing more than most people could imagine, but she does it with grace and heart. Lindsey Klebenow doesn’t just lead—she inspires. And she is more than deserving of every bit of recognition that comes her way.

2 votes
Doris Joncas
Frontline Care
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Doris Joncas

Préposée aux services

Doris Joncas : Depuis près de 27 ans, Mme Doris Joncas, se démarque par une implication constante et un dévouement exemplaire envers la Coopérative de services à domicile L’Islet Nord-Sud en y exerçant autant des tâches d'aide à la vie quotidienne que domestique. Il est possible de lui attribuer plusieurs qualités, créant l'admiration de ses collègues: dévouée, généreuse, altruiste, aimable, attachante, toujours souriante et prête à aider ceux dans le besoin. Combinant plusieurs années d'expérience ainsi que plusieurs formations, Mme Joncas fait preuve d'une assiduité et d'une débrouillardise hors pair. Elle est devenue un pilier pour son équipe et au sein de la clientèle. Toujours prête à aider lorsque le besoin se ressent, elle remplace dès que cela lui est possible, en plus d'être très polyvalente. Sa disponibilité face à son travail est remarquable et les suivis qu'elle y exerce sont un atout considérable pour notre Coopérative. À travers son travail respectueux, bienveillant et profondément humain, elle apporte une aide indispensable à la clientèle. Professionnelle et toujours prête à relever les défis, elle incarne une source d’inspiration pour toute personne la connaissant. Pour son impact positif et son engagement constant et remarquable, nous proposons avec une immense fierté sa candidature pour ce prix. Son travail et la personne qu'elle est méritent pleinement cette reconnaissance.

2 votes
Benoit Goupil
Executive Leadership
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Benoit Goupil

Propriétaire / PDG

Soulignons le travail, la vision et l’engagement de Benoit Goupil, PDG de Bien Chez Soi Laval Rive-Nord, qui depuis maintenant 9 ans développe, opère et gère la franchise avec rigueur, constance et détermination. Au fil des années, Benoit a su bâtir bien plus qu’une entreprise : il a mis en place une organisation solide, structurée et reconnue pour la qualité de ses services, son professionnalisme et sa fiabilité. Par son leadership, sa capacité à prendre des décisions, à gérer la croissance, à structurer les opérations et à maintenir des standards élevés, il a contribué à faire de Bien Chez Soi Laval Rive-Nord une référence en soins et soutien à domicile dans la région. Diriger une entreprise dans notre domaine demande une présence constante, une grande capacité d’adaptation, une gestion serrée des opérations, des ressources humaines, des finances, du développement et des relations avec les clients et partenaires. Depuis 9 ans, Benoit assume toutes ces responsabilités avec sérieux, vision et sens des responsabilités. Derrière la croissance de l’entreprise, les milliers d’heures de services rendus, les familles aidées, les emplois créés et la réputation de qualité de l’organisation, il y a des années de travail, de décisions difficiles, de gestion quotidienne et d’amélioration continue. Son engagement envers la qualité des services, la stabilité de l’organisation, le bien-être des clients/employés et le développement de l’entreprise mérite d’être souligné et reconnu.

1 vote
Sam Pennie
Operational Excellence
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Sam Pennie

Operations Manager

It is my pleasure to nominate Sam Pennie for the Operations Excellence Award in recognition of her outstanding leadership and execution during our recent transition from our legacy system to our new AlayaCare platform.This initiative was both complex and highly impactful for our organization, requiring careful coordination, clear communication, and unwavering attention to detail. Sam demonstrated exceptional operational leadership throughout the process, ensuring the transition completed on time and without disrupting our clients or caregivers.  That achievement reflects her planning capabilities, disciplined execution, and people skills. Beyond managing timelines and resources, she took full ownership of the operational rollout. She effectively coordinated across teams, ensured accountability at every stage, and proactively addressed challenges before they could impact progress. Her ability to keep all stakeholders aligned and focused was instrumental in the success of this project.Equally notable were her professionalism, patience and composure she brought to the process. System transitions can be stressful and disruptive, yet Sam handled every situation with calm, confidence, and grace. She fostered a sense of stability and trust among team members, which contributed significantly to a smooth and successful implementation.Her leadership not only delivered a critical operational improvement but also strengthened team collaboration and confidence moving forward. The success of this transition directly reflects her dedication, expertise, and commitment to excellence.  As a result, our organization has a fantastic start on the upgraded platform.For these reasons, I strongly recommend Sam Pennie for the Operations Excellence Award.

1 vote
Eileen Hedrick, RN, BSHA
Impact and Innovation
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Eileen Hedrick, RN, BSHA

Nurse Founder

Eileen McCaffrey Hedrick started with a mission statement. It was the Mother Teresa quote, "We serve with our hands, love with our hearts and seek the face of our Creator in those we serve." She told her family, if I am going to start a Home Care Agency, it must be built around this statement. Since 1997, Martha's Hands was founded on the principles of Compassion and Excellence in Home Care. Compassion was the Care Ministry model. As discussed above, Eileen founded Martha's Hands based on that mission statement of Love through Service. Being a Care Ministry, we reflect back on our Mission Statement in everything we do. The people we attract, Caregivers and Office Support Team, embody this mission. As proof: during COVID, the average home care agency lost 20% of their care team in the first 90 days. Martha's Hands only lost 5%. They were dedicated to serving others, especially in challenging times. Excellence refers to our unique Nurse Care Manager model. Even though Missouri is not a licensed state, Eileen believed that everyone deserves a nurse. Having a team of highly skilled, compassionate nurses to oversee the care for all our clients and support our caregivers, Martha's Hands is recognized as the gold standard for home care in St. Louis. As proof: Martha's Hands is the only Private Duty Home Care Provider on all the major hospital systems Preferred Provider List. As proof: since 2021, Martha's Hands has a 100% fill rate for their shifts. Eileen's innovative structure embodied by Compassion (Care Ministry) and Excellence (Nurse Care Manager model), has enabled Martha's Hands to be a national leader in home care.

1 vote
Cedrick Spears
Executive Leadership
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Cedrick Spears

CEO

It is with deep respect and genuine admiration that I nominate Dr. Cedrick Spears for Executive Leadership recognition. Dr. Spears is not simply a business owner he is a servant leader whose life’s work centers around protecting dignity, restoring hope, and ensuring that no senior or vulnerable adult feels forgotten. As the CEO of Quality Personal Care, he has dedicated himself to serving elderly individuals, veterans, and families navigating some of the most difficult seasons of their lives. In an industry where margins can easily overshadow mission, Dr. Spears has remained steadfast in choosing people over profit. He consistently makes decisions rooted in compassion, long-term stability, and ethical responsibility even when those decisions require personal sacrifice or slower growth. His leadership is deeply selfless. He has invested countless hours strengthening operational systems, building accountability structures, and formalizing governance not for recognition, but to ensure families receive consistent, high-quality care they can trust. His focus on structure and sustainability is driven by one simple belief: vulnerable families deserve excellence, not shortcuts. Dr. Spears leads from the front, but he never seeks the spotlight. He empowers his team, challenges them to grow, and holds leadership accountable including himself. He believes that true executive leadership is not about authority, but stewardship. Every policy he implements, every performance structure he designs, and every expansion decision he evaluates is measured against one question: “Does this protect our clients and strengthen our caregivers?” His commitment to veterans and underserved populations further reflects his heart for service. He understands that many of the individuals he serves have given so much in their own lives to their families, their communities, and their country and he believes it is our responsibility to care for them with honor. Dr. Spears has transformed Quality Personal Care from a small home care agency into a growing, structured organization grounded in accountability and compassion. But what makes him most deserving of Executive Leadership recognition is not just the growth it is the integrity behind it. He leads with faith. He leads with humility. He leads with courage. And most importantly, he leads with selflessness. For his unwavering dedication to ethical growth, community impact, and dignified care for those who need it most, Dr. Cedrick Spears is truly deserving of Executive Leadership recognition.

0 votes
Antonio Ignalig
Operational Excellence
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Antonio Ignalig

Supervisor

I would like to nominate Antonio Ignalig, Supervisor at Ottawa Home Care, for the Operational Excellence recognition. Antonio has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, reliability, and commitment to ensuring smooth daily operations within the organization. As a supervisor, Antonio plays a key role in supporting both administrative staff and care teams by maintaining effective coordination, clear communication, and organized workflow. He approaches his responsibilities with professionalism and a strong sense of accountability, ensuring that tasks are completed efficiently and that operational standards are maintained at all times. Antonio is known for his proactive attitude and willingness to assist team members whenever needed. He works collaboratively with staff to address challenges, improve processes, and ensure that services are delivered in a timely and organized manner. His ability to manage responsibilities while supporting the team contributes significantly to a productive and positive work environment. Through his dedication and strong work ethic, Antonio helps ensure that the organization operates efficiently while maintaining a high level of service for clients and staff. His leadership and commitment to operational improvement make him highly deserving of recognition. For his professionalism, teamwork, and dedication to operational excellence, I strongly recommend Antonio Ignalig for the Operational Excellence nomination.

0 votes
Emmanuel Boursiquot
Frontline Care
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Emmanuel Boursiquot

Payroll Assistant

I would like to nominate Emmanuel, Payroll Assistant at Ottawa Home Care, for the Operational Excellence recognition. Emmanuel has demonstrated exceptional dedication, accuracy, and professionalism in managing payroll-related responsibilities, ensuring that staff members are paid correctly and on time. In his role as Payroll Assistant, Emmanuel plays a critical part in maintaining the efficiency and reliability of payroll operations. He carefully manages payroll processing, reviews timesheets, and ensures that records are accurate and compliant with organizational policies. His attention to detail and commitment to accuracy help prevent discrepancies and maintain trust among employees. Emmanuel is also known for his strong organizational skills and his willingness to assist both staff and management when payroll-related questions or concerns arise. He approaches his work with patience, professionalism, and a solution-oriented mindset, ensuring that issues are resolved promptly and efficiently. Through his consistent reliability and commitment to high standards, Emmanuel contributes significantly to the smooth functioning of administrative operations. His work supports both employees and management by ensuring that payroll processes remain organized, transparent, and dependable. For his dedication, precision, and commitment to operational efficiency, I strongly recommend Emmanuel for the Operational Excellence nomination.

0 votes
Hamerti Melka
Impact and Innovation
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Hamerti Melka

Director of Operations

Hamerti Melka, better known as Amie, has spent more than a decade demonstrating that home‑based care in Newfoundland and Labrador is not a service. It is infrastructure. Under her operational leadership, TLC Nursing and Home Care Services experienced significant growth. Which was achieved through a global pandemic, through one of the most severe workforce shortages, and in the country’s oldest province. That spanned five regions, from urban centres to rural communities, proving that scale and quality are not mutually exclusive in home care. Through her active engagement with the Home Care Association of Newfoundland and Labrador, Amie worked directly on a provincial overtime policy committee, advocating for protections that allow home care workers to remain in the profession. Stable workers enable consistent care. Consistent care builds trust. In a province facing a historic workforce crisis, trust is not a soft outcome, it is the difference between a client remaining safely at home and a system pushed into crisis. Under her leadership, TLC achieved accreditation and was recognized by ANC as an Outstanding Employer. Across Newfoundland, an extended team of home support workers and coordinators from Corner Brook to Stephenville, Grand Falls to Rocky Harbour, Port aux Basques to St. John’s deliver on the promise of home‑based care every single day. Amie also serves as an Executive Board Member of the Home Care Association, contributing her operational insight at the provincial level. Amie came to Canada as a refugee. She built her career in a province where she is, and remains, the only Black woman at this level of home care leadership. She did not wait for a seat at the table she earned one by building trust within the communities she serves. Grounded in occupational health and safety and public health, and with a growing focus on how technology and AI can advance client care outcomes, Amie brings both deep operational expertise and forward‑looking vision to an industry in transformation. She leads with precision, with advocacy, and with an unwavering belief that home care is not a service it is infrastructure. And infrastructure requires leaders willing to fight for it at every level. When done right, it delivers dignity, stability, and the very best of humanity to those who need it most.

0 votes
Ashley McLellan
Impact and Innovation
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Ashley McLellan

Directrice Générale

Ashley pilote l’innovation technologique chez Bien Chez Soi depuis plus de 7 ans, avec une vision claire : utiliser la technologie pour redonner du temps à l’humain. Aujourd’hui, elle dirige les projets en intelligence artificielle en collaboration étroite avec l’équipe d’AlayaCare, contribuant activement à faire évoluer les pratiques du secteur des soins à domicile, au Québec et au-delà. Son approche ne vise pas simplement à améliorer les systèmes existants, mais à les repenser. Elle travaille à réduire la charge administrative et opérationnelle afin de permettre aux équipes de consacrer davantage de temps à ce qui compte réellement : la relation avec les bénéficiaires et la présence humaine des bienveillants. Ce qui distingue particulièrement Ashley, c’est sa capacité à porter une vision qui dépasse les intérêts organisationnels. Elle propose et pilote des initiatives qui ne répondent pas uniquement aux réalités de Bien Chez Soi, mais qui visent à faire progresser l’ensemble de l’industrie des soins à domicile. Elle s’implique dans des projets et des orientations qui contribuent au développement de pratiques plus efficaces, plus humaines et plus durables à grande échelle. Grâce à son leadership, Bien Chez Soi s’appuie sur l’innovation comme levier concret de croissance et de transformation, tout en participant activement à l’évolution du secteur. Elle contribue à bâtir un modèle de soins plus efficace, plus humain et mieux adapté aux réalités actuelles et futures des personnes en perte d’autonomie. Ashley incarne une nouvelle génération de leaders en soins à domicile : capables d’allier technologie, performance et humanité pour faire évoluer durablement l’industrie.

0 votes
Michelle Marshall
Impact and Innovation
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Michelle Marshall

Specialty Infusion Program Coordinator

I am proud to nominate Michelle for the Momentum Award because she exemplifies what it means to lead meaningful change in home‑based care and to expand access without compromising quality, safety, or outcomes. Michelle has been instrumental in the successful launch and growth of Palmetto Infusion’s Specialty Home Infusion program. At a time when healthcare is rapidly shifting toward alternative sites of care, she helped turn strategy into reality by building the operational and clinical foundation required to safely deliver complex infusion therapies in the home. Her work has directly enabled more patients to receive high‑acuity care in a cost‑effective, convenient setting while maintaining the clinical rigor traditionally associated with institutional environments. What makes Michelle’s impact particularly compelling is her ability to lead change across multiple dimensions at once. She has collaborated closely with stakeholders across clinical, intake, sales, operations, and technology teams to ensure processes were clearly defined, communicated, and operationalized. These efforts reduced ambiguity, improved coordination, and removed barriers that often delay or limit patient access to home infusion services. Michelle partnered with the sales team to create reporting processes that provide transparency and reassurance to referring providers, ensuring they know when patients have received their medication and that therapy is progressing as intended. In parallel, she worked hand in hand with the intake department to ensure all documentation required for payer authorization is obtained efficiently, helping prevent avoidable delays that can interrupt care. She has also contributed meaningfully to Palmetto’s technology evolution. Michelle has participated in integration planning for the organization’s new EMR and is actively involved as Palmetto continues implementing the AlayaCare patient management system and its Marketplace capabilities. Her involvement has focused on ensuring these tools support real‑world workflows, improve visibility across the care team, and ultimately enable scalable growth that expands access to home‑based care across multiple states. Perhaps most importantly, Michelle has never lost sight of the patient experience. She conducts welcome calls with specialty infusion patients, taking time to explain the home infusion process, set expectations, and build trust during what is often a stressful transition in care. She completes environmental assessments to ensure homes are appropriate for infusion therapy, reinforcing both safety and confidence in the alternative site of care model. Across her territory, Michelle coordinates care with contracted agencies spanning multiple states to ensure patients receive the therapies they need, when they need them. Her oversight promotes compliance, continuity, and positive clinical outcomes, even in complex and resource‑challenged environments. Michelle is a true solutions‑driven leader. She consistently looks beyond obstacles to find practical, patient‑centered ways to improve access, simplify processes, and elevate care delivery. Through her leadership, she has helped shape a specialty home infusion program that is scalable, clinically sound, and deeply aligned with the needs of patients, providers, and caregivers. For her role in expanding access to high‑quality home‑based care, leading operational and technological change, and setting a higher standard for specialty infusion services in the home, Michelle is exceptionally deserving of the Momentum Award.

0 votes
Yasmin Mohamoud
Operational Excellence
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Yasmin Mohamoud

Client Care Coordinator

I am delighted to nominate Yasmin for this award! In her role as a client care coordinator, she takes on one of the most challenging positions on the team as a "floater", supporting multiple teams and stepping in wherever she is needed most. Yasmin play a key role in making sure visits are filled - especially holidays and hard-to-cover stretches. When things are unpredictable, she brings a steady, reliable presence and works persistently to ensure clients continue to receive care without disruption. Her ability to parachute into different teams, quickly understand their needs, and keep things moving speaks to her adaptability and the trusts other placed in her. She knows our PSW's preferences, and the realities they are managing on a day to day basis. She connects in a genuine way, and PSWS feel comfortable sharing challenges with her, as they know she listens and will do her best to support them. She has a way to making people feel valued and thought of, even in the middle of a busy and demanding schedule. Yasmin also brings a sense of balance to the team. She is thoughtful, solutions-oriented, and always mindful of the bigger picture - finding ways to support both clients' needs and staff well-being. She steps in without hesitation, supports others without being asked, and consistently shows up with care, professionalism and a willingness to help! Yasmin is always willing to contribute to broader improvements. She is open to trying new features and workflows within AlayaCare, and takes time to share practical, constructive feedback on processes. She bridges the gap between system functionality and frontline realities, making her input incredibly valuable. I am grateful to have her with us, and proud to nominate her for this recognition!

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Gabrielle Roy Paquette
Operational Excellence
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Gabrielle Roy Paquette

Coordonnatrice service à la clientèle

Gabrielle, coordonnatrice service à la clientèle Bien Chez Soi Aylmer–Pontiac Gabrielle, coordonnatrice chez Bien Chez Soi Aylmer–Pontiac depuis un an, se distingue par la qualité exceptionnelle de ses communications, son sens de l’organisation et son approche profondément humaine. Grâce à une écoute active et une grande empathie, elle établit des relations de confiance durables avec les clients, leurs familles et les employés, contribuant à une expérience cohérente et rassurante. Contributions clés : Dans son rôle, Gabrielle assure la coordination des services, incluant la gestion des horaires, les remplacements, les suivis clients et employés, ainsi que le soutien en ressources humaines. Elle collabore étroitement avec la direction afin d’assurer des opérations fluides et une prise de décision efficace. Elle joue également un rôle essentiel dans le soutien aux équipes terrain, en s’assurant que chaque employé est bien préparé et informé avant ses mandats, ce qui améliore la qualité des services et la confiance des intervenants. Amélioration des processus : Gabrielle a mis en place plusieurs outils structurants et initiatives qui ont optimisé les opérations, permis de standardiser les pratiques, de clarifier les attentes et de réduire les erreurs. • Documents de procédures pour les nouveaux clients • Bilan hebdomadaire pour les employés • Infolettre destinée aux clients et familles • Formation et accompagnement sur les outils (dont AlayaCare) • Organisation améliorée des fichiers et de l’information Impact : Son travail a généré des retombées concrètes. • Gains d’efficacité et de temps pour les équipes • Amélioration de la qualité et de la conformité • Meilleure expérience client grâce à des suivis personnalisés • Soutien accru aux employés, favorisant leur engagement Par son engagement, sa rigueur et son approche centrée sur les relations humaines, Gabrielle contribue directement à la performance et à la qualité des services. Elle incarne pleinement le rôle d’agent de changement en excellence opérationnelle, en assurant des opérations efficaces tout en plaçant les besoins des personnes au cœur de chaque action

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Shilonda Savage
Executive Leadership
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Shilonda Savage

CEO

I am nominating myself as an executive leader in home care because this work is not just professional—it is deeply personal and purpose-driven. My parents had me later in life, so I witnessed their aging in a very real and immediate way. When my father became ill, my mother cared for him until his passing. Nearly 20 years later, she began to decline due to dementia and Alzheimer’s. I then watched my sister step into the role of primary caregiver, and I saw firsthand the emotional and physical toll that responsibility takes on a family. We did everything we could to support one another. But eventually, we reached a point where we had no choice but to place my mother in a facility—where, unfortunately, the quality of care did not reflect the dignity she deserved. That experience shaped my leadership. It gave me a clear mission: to help families avoid that outcome whenever possible. Through my work in home care, I am committed to preserving the legacy of caring for our seniors within their homes and communities—where they can receive compassionate, one-on-one support in an environment that feels safe, familiar, and respectful. As a leader, I am not only building a business—I am building a standard of care rooted in dignity, trust, and accountability. If I can help even one family navigate this journey with more support, more options, and better care than we had, then I know I am making the impact I was called to make.

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Smriti Neupane
Frontline Care
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Smriti Neupane

Personal Support Worker

I’ve had the chance to work alongside Smriti over the past few months, and in that short time, she’s genuinely set a new standard for me when it comes to what great frontline care looks like. We typically see each other once or twice a week while supporting a client who requires a two-person transfer, so I’ve been able to observe her closely in real, hands-on situations. What immediately stands out about Smriti is her natural kindness—she has a calm, gentle presence that puts people at ease almost instantly. What makes her exceptional is how seamlessly she pairs that warmth with a very high level of professionalism. She is incredibly mindful in how she approaches care. Every interaction is respectful, intentional, and centered around the client’s comfort and dignity. She takes the time to communicate clearly, seek consent, and ensure the person she’s supporting feels safe and involved. There was one moment that really stayed with me. During a shift, despite clearly asking for consent, she was criticized by the client for not doing so. Without becoming defensive or flustered, Smriti simply apologized and adjusted—becoming even more attentive, checking in more frequently, and continuing the care with patience, kindness, and a positive attitude. What I found most powerful was what happened after we left. Only once we were outside did she let her guard down, and it was clear the situation had affected her. It showed just how much she genuinely cares—not just about completing a task, but about being trusted and doing right by the people she supports. And yet, in the moment, she remained completely composed, ensuring neither the client nor their caregiver felt anything but respect and reassurance. I can honestly say I’ve never seen anyone demonstrate that level of emotional control and professionalism in a situation like that. It left a lasting impression on me. In conversations we’ve had, Smriti has also shared some of the more difficult realities she has faced in this work, including inappropriate behaviour, unfair assumptions, and requests that go beyond what any caregiver should reasonably be expected to manage. What stood out to me was not just what she experienced, but how she handled it—with quiet dignity, professionalism, and the confidence to set clear boundaries when needed. She remains remarkably kind and thoughtful, without compromising her own respect or safety. Beyond her work with clients, Smriti is an incredible colleague. She is supportive, collaborative, and genuinely kind to those she works with. She goes out of her way to create a positive and respectful environment, making even difficult shifts feel manageable. Working with her is something I genuinely look forward to. Smriti is the kind of caregiver who brings steadiness into unpredictable situations. Her ability to remain kind without being passive, and professional without losing her humanity, is what sets her apart. In a role that demands both emotional strength and compassion, she delivers both—consistently and without recognition. She is more than deserving of it.

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