Van Kirk & Carter Honored for Outstanding Service

Two longtime employees of United Helpers who began their careers as direct support professionals (DSP) were recently honored for excelling in new roles they took on as they moved up the organization’s career ladder.

This year’s Behavioral Health Heart Award went to Lisa Van Kirk, of Heuvelton. Ms. Van Kirk began her career 10 years ago as a DSP, also spending time with the Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) Team as a care manager prior to joining the Behavioral Health Clinics as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 2022.

“Lisa embodies everything the Behavioral Health Heart Award represents through her compassion, positivity, and dedication to both her colleagues and the individuals we serve,” said Administrator of Behavioral Health Programs Breanne Snyder. 

Lisa Van Kirk accepts her award.

Ms. Snyder said that much of her department’s growth in recent years has been made possible because of people like Ms. Van Kirk. “She is a welcoming presence for new staff, a source of encouragement for her peers, and a driving force in growing our programs through school-based services and the upcoming launch of group therapy.”

Ms. Carter of Ogdensburg began her career as a DSP in 2013 working in that role until the COVID-19 pandemic shuttered the day habilitation program in March of 2020. She began working in finance as an accounts payable clerk, quickly rising through the ranks to become a finance assistant and ultimately a staff accountant.

“Just three months into her staff accountant position, she had to transition back into accounts payable to become the second accounts payable clerk,” said Comptroller Tammy Ritchie, who nominated her for the honor. “In January of 2025, due to staffing, Angel became the sole accounts payable clerk.”

In addition to serving as the lone accounts payable clerk for seven months, Ms. Carter also continued completing her monthly duties as staff accountant for the senior/disabled housing department.

Angel Carter accepts her award.

“Even to this day, Angel continues to wear two hats each day. She juggles and prioritizes both accounts payable and staff accountant job duties, ensuring tasks are completed in a timely manner,” Mrs. Ritchie said. “Even with her days being so full, she is willing to take on more and offer help if needed.”

Both the Behavioral Health Heart Award and Exemplary Professional Services Award were created in 2023 to recognize staff that did not fit into the criteria for already established awards across the organization.

The Behavioral Health Heart Award is presented annually to an employee who excels while working in the company’s behavioral health programs. The recipient receives a small trophy and a cash prize.

The Exemplary Professional Services Award is presented annually to an employee serving in an administrative professional position. The recipient receives a plaque and a cash prize.

Simmons Recognized for 52 Years of Service

 

In “Wonderland,” the Queen of Hearts may be evil, but at United Helpers our Queen of Hearts is anything but. Joyce Simmons of Morristown was honored for 52 years of service at this year’s employee recognition luncheon. In honor of that milestone Mrs. Simmons was presented with a custom deck of cards, a card for each year of service. From left, Mrs. Simmons accepts the cards from United Helpers CEO Todd R. Amo.

Vallance & Cameron Honored With Margaret R. Spies Awards

The Margaret R. Spies Award honors the finest in direct care across the United Helpers Organization with both a certified nursing assistant (CNA) and Direct Support Professional (DSP) being honored each year.

This award was created by the family of Mrs. Spies as way to honor her legacy and say thank you to United Helpers for the care she received while living at the skilled nursing facility in Ogdensburg.

Mrs. Spies’ daughter, Ann also has a daughter with developmental disabilities, making the opportunity to honor both CNAs and DSPs especially meaningful. Mrs. Spies was unable to attend this year’s award presentation.

Earning the award from United Helpers Rehabilitation and Senior Care was Shelby Vallance of Madrid, who received not one but two nominations for the honor.

Ms. Vallance was nominated by Hailee Duvall, an RN at the facility and Amber Curtis, who serves as her nurse manager.

“She regularly goes above and beyond, staying late when necessary, and offering additional support during challenging staffing situations,” Ms. Duvall said. “Her strong work ethic, calm demeanor, and commitment to excellent care make her a valued member of this team.”

Mrs. Curtis agreed.

“Shelby displays professionalism in every interaction she has. She treats residents, families and coworkers with kindness, dignity, and respect. Her communication skills, teamwork, and compassionate approach create a positive atmosphere and set a strong example for others,” she said. “Her dedication and compassion make a meaningful difference every day.”

Earning the honor from the individualized residential alternatives (IRAs), was Mary Cameron of Norfolk. Ms. Cameron is a med-certified direct support professional (MDSP) at the Lisbon IRA.

Nominating Ms. Cameron was Residential Manager Mindy Sharpe, who oversees the IRA.

"Mary demonstrates respectful, compassionate, and patient communication with our program members, their families, and her coworkers. She creates a welcoming and secure environment that supports participant engagement, progress, and well-being.” Ms. Sharpe wrote.

In addition to her standard work as a MDSP, Ms. Sharpe said Ms. Cameron serves as a trusted point of contact, both for the families of program members and outside medical staff. She even voluntarily mentors new staff.

“Mary truly represents United Helpers with integrity through all of her internal and external interactions,” Ms. Sharpe said.

The Spies Award has been honoring excellence in direct care at United Helpers since 2021. Recipients receive a cash prize as well as their names engraved on a plaque displayed at Rehabilitation and Senior Care in Canton.

This year’s Margaret R. Spies Awards were presented at the annual United Helpers Employee Recognition Luncheon held at the Gran View on the River in Ogdensburg. This year Shelby Vallance, a CNA from Madrid and Mary Cameron, a MDSP from Norfolk were recognized. From left, United Helpers Vice President of Operations Timothy Parsons, Ms. Vallance, United Helpers Rehabilitation and Senior Care Administrator Alysha Troiano, Ms. Cameron, and United Helpers Behavioral Health and Life Skills Director of Residential Programs Kimberly George.

United Helpers Awards 3 Students With Helen S. Randles Scholarships

CANTON –Two students from Harrisville Central School and a student from Lisbon Central School were honored with this year’s Helen S. Randles Scholarships.

This year’s winners were selected from a field of nearly two dozen applicants, who are all seeking to work in the healthcare field.

“To work in the healthcare, you have to be in it for the right reasons,” said United Helpers Vice President of Operations Timothy Parsons. “These are jobs where you will be relied on to make others feel better and that is whether you are having a great day or a terrible day.”

Mr. Parsons said that he could tell by reading each of the winners’ applications that they are up for the task.

“You will be asked to be caring, even when it is hard. It can feel thankless at times, but it is also one of the most fulfilling and rewarding careers you can embark on,” he said. “We are glad that you are taking on this challenge. The future of healthcare is in good hands.”

One of this year’s winners already works for United Helpers, as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at the Lisbon IRA. Esther McKeever, of Lisbon has worked at the IRA since April of 2025. She will be attending SUNY Canton and has been accepted into the school’s nursing program. Esther is the daughter of Jillian Langley and Ben McKeever. She is planning to become a Registered Nurse and earn her bachelor’s degree in nursing.

Joining her at SUNY Canton will be Avery Chartrand, of Pitcairn. Ms. Chartrand will be graduating from Harrisville Central School and will also be enrolled in the nursing program in Canton. She is the daughter of Anthony and Sonja Chartrand and is planning to become a Registered Nurse and earn her bachelor’s degree in nursing.

Violet Atkinson, of Fowler will also be graduating from Harrisville Central School. She will be attending Houghton University and is majoring in exercise science. She is hoping to become a physical therapist and advocate for females in athletics. Ms. Atkinson is the daughter of Parish and Jade Atkinson.

Each year United Helpers awards three $1,000 scholarships, which are funded through an endowment created by the late Helen S. Randles, who established the scholarship more than 40 years ago to provide merit-based aid for students from St. Lawrence County who are looking to enter the health care field.

Mrs. Randles was a long-time United Helpers volunteer and former President of the Management Company Board of Directors. She placed great value on education and particularly helping prepare youth to enter the health care field.

This year’s Helen S. Randles Scholarship recipients included two future nurses and a future physical therapist, with two winners coming from Harrisville Central School and one winner coming from Lisbon Central School. From left, United Helpers Assistant Director of Corporate Services Jordan Downing-Duke, Violet Atkinson, of Fowler, Avery Chartrand, of Pitcairn, Esther McKeever, of Lisbon and Vice President of Operations Timothy Parsons. Each student will receive a $1,000 scholarship.

Third Annual Fans' Choice NFL Ticket Drawing Underway

OGDENSBURG – Supporters of United Helpers will have a chance to “Win Big & Witness History,” as the organization hosts its third annual Fans’ Choice NFL Ticket Drawing.

Tickets for this year’s drawing are on sale now.

The winner will receive two tickets to the regular season game of their choice. Given that the drawing takes place on NFL opening day, week one games are not eligible.

“With the Bills opening their new stadium this year, demand for tickets is unlike anything we’ve seen in recent years. Ticket prices on the secondary market have doubled, but we’re keeping our tickets for this drawing the same price they were when we started three years ago,” said United Helpers Marketing Manager Benny Fairchild.

Tickets are only $10 each. Bundles are also available with three tickets for $25 or seven tickets for $50.

Tickets for the drawing may be purchased online through the “Giving tab” at unitedhelpers.org. Tickets can be purchased in person (cash only) at the United Helpers RiverLedge complex, 8101 State Hwy. 68 in Ogdensburg.

Only 500 tickets are available, with sales continuing until all tickets are sold or 11:59 pm on Monday, Sept. 7. The drawing will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 9, the opening day of this year’s NFL season and be broadcast on the United Helpers Facebook page.

United Helpers will purchase tickets to the game, pending availability, of the winner’s choice. Tickets will be forwarded electronically to the winner. Transportation, meals and lodging are not included.

Potsdam Student Uses School Project to Help Area Senior Citizens

CANTON – Each year students in their sophomore and junior years at Potsdam High School are asked to complete a project that takes them outside of the district’s standard curriculum and helps them think about their role in the community.

This year for 20 Time Project, Potsdam Junior Breanna Buffham organized a donation drive for senior citizens at nursing homes across the county. Ms. Buffham collected candy, soaps, puzzles, word search books, small home décor items, blankets, slippers and other items to distribute amongst the seniors.

While Ms. Buffham could have ended her project there, she chose to take the project one step further, putting together a team of friends to visit and spend time with the residents at United Helpers Rehabilitation and Senior Care in Canton.

“We have some very close family friends who have been in nursing homes, including one who was really close who lived right here,” she said. “Unfortunately, though, she passed away a few years ago.”

Many of the items Ms. Buffham collected were used for prizes during a morning session of bingo. Other items were left behind to be distributed to residents, as needed. One of the people who contributed to her efforts donated a large collection of jewelry, enough so that each woman who played bingo was able to select a necklace or bracelet to keep for themselves.

“I did something like this last year to help children with cancer,” Ms. Buffham said. “I wanted to do something similar, so this year I just switched the age group. It feels really good. It felt good to help kids last year and this year we’re seeing the other side of things.”

Nicole Euto is an 11^th grade English Teacher at Potsdam and she is one of three teachers who help oversee the students’ 20 Time projects. She accompanied Ms. Buffham and her friends on their trip to United Helpers.

“The kids come up with a lot of great ideas for projects,” she said. “A lot of the projects are within the school, so it’s nice to see a project with this level of community service involved.”

Upon arriving Ms. Buffham and her friends split into two groups. One group went to play bingo with residents in the memory care unit, while the second group played with residents in the skilled nursing wing.

Each group played several games of bingo with the residents while swapping stories and exchanging laughter. Students then helped the residents they sat with pick out prizes.

“Today was a great morning for our residents,” said Activities Leader Lauren Martinchek. “They love playing bingo and they love having visitors. Having the chance to win prizes was an added bonus. Many thanks to Breanna for putting this together.”

Breanna Buffham, a junior at Potsdam High School used this year’s 20 Time Project to help senior citizens in nursing homes across St. Lawrence County. Helping Ms. Buffham with the project was a team of friends. The group recently visited United Helpers Rehabilitation and Senior Care in Canton, spending some time with the residents, leading to laughter and smiles that spanned across the generations. Front row, from left, Sophia Manor, T’aja Burks, Ms. Buffham, Sofie Gagner, Bennette Estes; second row, Oscar Shaw, Emily Quinell, Erika Robinson, Brittney Gibson, Anna Rossner and Jeremiah Welsh.

UH Employee Celebrates 90th Birthday

By Benny Fairchild

CANTON – Every morning when Gail Butler arrives at work, the first thing she does is visit with residents and sing to them while they’re eating breakfast. On the morning of May 11^th though, residents flipped the script and began singing to her when she walked into the dining room.

Mrs. Butler described the scene. “It was quite a surprise. They had on party hats and had blowers. It was great.”

The reason for their singing was May 11^th wasn’t just another day at the office. It was Gail Butler’s 90^th birthday.

Mrs. Butler began working for the nursing home 33 years ago as a CNA when it was known as the Moongate Nursing Home. However, her career with the United Helpers Organization did not begin until she had already raised her 12 children, starting with the company at the age of 57.

After working as a CNA, she transitioned into medical records and then spent time working in the activities department. Today, she works as an administrative assistant/receptionist, where she is the smiling face greeting, visitors, staff and residents alike three days a week.

When asked if she envisioned herself still working at the age of 90, Mrs. Butler laughed. “I had no idea,” she said. Prior to joining United Helpers, she worked in home care for 5 years. Before that time, she was a stay-at-home mom, who also helped care for the children of several teachers who lived in the area.

“I did that while my kids were growing up,” she said.

Her tenure at United Helpers also included a brief stay as a patient following a broken hip. “I think I was here for a couple of weeks,” she said, adding in her mind there was never any doubt she would return to work.

“I wasn’t going to let that stop me,” she said. “As long as I can keep on going, I’m going to keep on working.”

Mrs. Butler’s 90^th birthday also included gifts, a cookout, and visits from several people who had worked with Mrs. Butler over the years, but had already retired.

Amongst the gifts was a photo album put together by staff, with photos of Mrs. Butler from throughout her time at United Helpers. “I couldn’t believe all the pictures,” she said. “That really brought back a lot of memories.”

In addition to her 12 children, she also has 23 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren – a total of 35 grandchildren across two different generations.

On the day before her birthday Mrs. Butler’s family held a surprise party including more than 60 guests. “How they kept that quiet for two months, I’ll never know,” she said, adding, “I was very surprised.”

In addition to her duties as an administrative assistant, Mrs. Butler volunteers her time with the activities department, hosting monthly karaoke sessions with the residents. When other guests are performing Mrs. Butler can often be seen dancing with residents and sometimes joining other entertainers for a song or two.

Mark Darou, of the Canton Goldenaires Barbershop Choir has sung with Mrs. Butler on many occasions. “She’s the best Patsy Cline around,” he said.

Prior to the cookout, the Goldenaires serenaded Mrs. Butler with Happy Birthday and a few other songs personalized to match her name. Mrs. Butler closed out the performance, at their request, with the Patsy Cline hit, “I Fall to Pieces.”

She also prides herself on having two very green thumbs, helping to care for vegetable gardens and flower gardens around the property.

“Gail really is an amazing lady who is a bundle of energy and we’re lucky to have her on our team,” said United Helpers CEO Todd R. Amo. “I know I’m not going to still be working when I’m 90.”

Following a rousing rendition of Happy Birthday from the Canton Goldenaires Barber Shop Choir, Gail Butler offered a wave of thanks to the lobby full of people who came to celebrate her 90^th birthday. Mrs. Butler still works at United Helpers Rehabilitation and Senior Care three days a week.