As the holiday season approaches, we take time to reflect on the past year, celebrating successes, identifying opportunities for growth, and filling our hearts with gratitude. This time of year, we recognize six dedicated community-based team members with the CARES Award at Mission Health’s annual leadership conference in Orlando, Florida. This year’s honorees are Demetrice “Ms. Dede” Palmer, Wendy Newberry, Debbie Kabrey, Teri Escobebo, Emmanuel Ukpong, and Casey Webber.
Each year, community leaders nominate exceptional individuals who embody our CARES values: Character, Attitude, Respect, Excellence, and Service. These values are not only our expectations but also our benchmarks for providing quality care. For those of us who don’t get to see the daily dedication and resilience in the communities, the CARES Awards shine a light on the incredible work happening to ensure residents’ safety, engagement, and happiness—the essence of the Mission Experience.
CARES Values in Action
CHARACTER: We are committed to doing the right thing for our residents, co-workers, and company. We strive to keep our promises and never let each other down.
ATTITUDE: We foster a positive and enriching work environment that our team members are proud to be part of, enhancing the culture of our communities.
RESPECT: We extend courtesy, honor, and dignity to everyone we encounter—team members, residents, patients, vendors, visitors, and ourselves.
EXCELLENCE: We pursue excellence in all we do because those in our care deserve our best. We hold ourselves to high standards and encourage personal and professional growth to achieve operational and financial excellence.
SERVICE: Mission Health is dedicated to serving our residents, our fellow team members, and our communities.
This month, on behalf of all Mission Health Communities, I want to express my gratitude to our 2024 CARES Award winners. I had the honor of meeting some of these remarkable individuals and their family members, and they are some of the most inspiring people within our organization. They don’t work for accolades; they do it because senior care is their calling.
During a recent visit to Jesup Health and Rehab in Jesup, Georgia, I spent time with Demetrice “Ms. Dede” Palmer, their CARES Award winner. Ms. Dede welcomed me with open arms, as though we were old friends. Her colleagues spoke warmly about her dedication. When Jesup was struck by Hurricane Helene, Ms. Dede went beyond her duties, organizing food drives and fundraising for those who lost everything. She does this quietly, driven purely by kindness.
For those of us who seldom see day-to-day community life, the CARES Awards are an invaluable glimpse into the extraordinary dedication of our caregivers. Here’s what colleagues had to say about each of our winners:
Demetrice “Ms. Dede” Palmer, Activities Director – Jesup Health and Rehab
“Ms. Dede’s character shines through every day. As the only staff member in her department, she ensures that activities continue for residents on evenings, weekends, and holidays, so they feel supported no matter the day.” —Jamie Herrin, Administrator
Wendy Newberry, Area Director for Southeast Kansas – Arma Health and Rehab
“Wendy’s positivity is contagious. She helps people see the light, even in their darkest moments.” —Emily Sevy, Regional Director of Business Development
Debbie Kabrey, Social Service Designee – Oswego Health and Rehab
“Debbie’s ‘win-win’ attitude comforts residents, families, and colleagues. She’s a skilled mentor and brings a wealth of experience and integrity to our team.” —Sharla Hopper, Administrator
Teri Escobebo, CNA/CMA – Neodesha Care and Rehab
“Teri’s commitment to excellence shows in her care for residents, training of new staff, and willingness to go above and beyond.” —Glenda Crellin, Senior Director of Education Services
Emmanuel Ukpong, CNA – Rolling Hills Health and Rehab
“With 31 years as a CNA, Emmanuel’s love for his residents and community shines every day. He reminds us all to treat others as we would want to be treated.” —Chrissy Morgan, Regional Director of Clinical Services
Casey Webber, CNA/CMA – Wilson Care and Rehab
“Casey is quick to offer help without being asked, follows through on her commitments, and genuinely cares for others.” —Stacie Moses, Administrator
This holiday season, let’s all take a page from the “Magnificent Six.” Walk into work each day with a positive attitude, find opportunities to make someone’s day, and spread encouragement. A kind word or gesture can go a long way in lifting others up. Together, let’s show up to care for and support one another.
Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving!
