Chestnut Knoll at Home News

Out of all the caregivers employed at Chestnut Knoll At Home, four of them were recently recognized as “Caregiver of the Year” for their outstanding service.

The Gilbertsville caregivers recognized were Marie Schwager and Jill Vincent; and the Phoenixville caregivers were Amy Murray and Barbara Kashinosha.

“These women were nominated by peers and staff for Caregiver of the Year for a variety of reasons,” stated Linda Detwiler, director. “They set examples for others and train others on how to provide the best possible care; they volunteer to cover shifts, even when it’s their day off; and they always have positive attitudes and smiles on their faces. In the true sense, they are the caregivers of the year at being able to do this every day and finding enjoyment in it, and in those that they care for.”

The Caregiver of the Year award shows appreciation for caregivers who go above and beyond their duties to make every client feel comfortable. Recipients are given an engraved plaque, a dinner for two, and a spa day to pamper them, as a way to say “thank you” for their accomplishments and outstanding service over the years.

“We really appreciate everything all our caregivers do for the clients and their families,” said Detwiler. “These four women in particular have put their heart and soul into caregiving and we are so glad we could honor each one as Caregiver of the Year.”

Chestnut Knoll At Home provides caregivers (non-medical) to assist seniors in their own homes so they can maintain their independence, dignity and quality of life. Services are monthly, weekly or daily care; respite care (planned temporary relief for the family caregiver); and emergency care. Licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Health. Member in good standing of the National Private Duty Association. This project is funded, in part, under an agreement with money allocated by the Pennsylvania Department of Aging and the County Commissioners, through the Berks, Montgomery, and Chester County Areas Agency on Aging. For more information on services offered by Chestnut Knoll At Home, call Linda Detwiler, senior director, at 610-473-3328 or visit www.chestnutknollhomecare.com.

The Gilbertsville caregivers that were recognized are Marybeth Martinez and Lynn Glass; and the Phoenixville caregivers were Ifeoma Onukegbe and Yvonne Winston.

“These women were nominated by peers and staff for Caregiver of the Year for a variety of reasons,” stated Linda Detwiler, director. “They are never late to work, they’re willing to take other shifts, they never call off, and they are always enthusiastic about their work. So many clients and families comment on how helpful and passionate they are.”

The Caregiver of the Year award began this year to show appreciation for caregivers who go above and beyond their duties to make every client feel comfortable. They are given an engraved plaque and a dinner for two for their accomplishments and outstanding service over the years.

“We really appreciate everything all our caregivers do for the clients and their families,” said Detwiler. “These four women in particular have put their heart and soul into caregiving and we are so glad we could honor each one as Caregiver of the Year.”

Chestnut Knoll At Home recognizes employees who have been caregivers for a significant length of time and dedication to caregiving. The “One in a Million Club” began this year to show appreciation for caregivers who have gone above and beyond their duties for many years.

All caregivers who were recognized had their name put on a plaque, which is in the Home Care office, and they were each given a small plaque of their own, stating they are “One in a Million” due to the excellent care they provide.

Seventeen caregivers were honored for their dedication. Pictured from left to right: Shawn Barndt (executive director) Denise Sellers, Sue Losch, Lois Arms-Rau, Lucy Vazquez, Lynn Glass, Jill Vincent, Letitia Clemons, Linda Detwiler (director), Beth Shumaker, Diana Migliaccio, Joyce Howerter, Kay Moyer, and Diana Pellicciotti.

(Not pictured: Esther Gable, Sandy Schiavo, Ricki Sangha, April Bealer and Diane Hartman.)

Linda could only choose one employee for the annual recognition program and selected Denise because of her excellent work ethic, attention to the seniors in her care, and for mentoring new caregivers. As a home health aide, Denise provides assistance for daily living activities to seniors directly in their homes in Berks, Montgomery and Chester Counties. She provides services that include help with light housekeeping, personal hygiene, managing medication, pet care, cooking, transportation and other attributes of leading an active life at home.

“The range of Denise’s care is from very simple needs to very detailed,” said Linda. “She gives care to our clients the way you want care given to your parents.”

Denise receives annual continuing education training through a Chestnut Knoll At Home Services extensive program that meets state requirements. Prior to joining Chestnut Knoll, she cared for people privately in their homes. Way to go Denise!