United Helpers Recognizes Star Employees with Annual Summer Awards

OGDENSBURG – Staff from across the United Helpers organization were recently honored as the company hosted its annual Summer Awards Ceremony.

“Anyone working for United Helpers does this because they care,” said CEO Todd R. Amo. “Even if you’re not working in direct care, you are helping others every day when you come to work.”

While three different awards were handed out, recognizing five different people, Mr. Amo said it’s a shame that there couldn’t be more people honored.

“We have so many deserving people,” he said. “The fact that you have been chosen and invited to be here today is a testament to your work ethic and the quality of work.”

The first awards presented were the Margaret R. Spies Awards. 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.

Mrs. Spies’ daughter, Ann presented the award, noting she knows first-hand the impact caregivers can have on an individual.

Last year her daughter had a stroke and was having seizures. At one point she had to be flown to a hospital in Syracuse. “They didn’t think she was going to make it,” Mrs. Spies said.

Natalie Apple receives her Spies Award.

However, her daughter proved to be a fighter, earning a discharge from the hospital and admission to United Helpers Rehabilitation and Senior Care in Canton.

“One day she couldn’t sit up and then the next day she must have decided she didn’t want to be isolated anymore, so she got up and walked to the couch. People were calling her a miracle,” she said. “I just want you to know that each and every one of you are miracle workers.”

The Spies Award honors both a CNA and a DSP.

Earning the award from United Helpers Rehabilitation and Senior Care was Natalie Apple, and according to Assistant Administrator Alysha Troiano picking this year’s winner wasn’t an easy task – at least until it was. 

“This year we received an overwhelming number of nominations from all departments and even some patient families. This is a true testament to the valuable staff we are fortunate to have serving our residents,” Mrs. Troiano said.

As administrators were reviewing the nominations there were two nominees who stood out. “Our decision was made a bit easier when we saw a nomination for Natalie from the other frontrunner,” she said. 

Justin "Judd" Steele receives his Spies Award

Justin “Judd” Steele has been a DSP for 25 years during which time he has not only been a top performing employee, but also trained dozens of other DSPs, some who have even gone onto become administrators within the United Helpers Organization.

“He has heard me say this before, but I’m going to say it again today, ‘Judd is the reason I am still here with United Helpers today,” said Residential Manager Team Leader Lauren Peters. “For years he has quietly given his time, energy and heart to his work. He has offered guidance, encouragement and most importantly, unwavering support not only to myself, but anyone he comes in contact with.”

Two employees from the behavioral health services are recognized each year with the Behavioral Health Heart Award. This year LMSW Misty Thomas and RN Adam Bullock were recognized.

Misty Thomas receives a Behavioral Health Heart Award

Behavioral Health Programs Administrator Breanne Snyder noted that Mrs. Thomas not only makes an impact working with clients at the United Helpers Behavioral Health Clinics, but she also makes an impact on the lives of the students she works with through the in-house clinics United Helpers has in several local school districts.

“In her nomination letter it was said that you are the kind of colleague that brings calm and clarity to even the most challenging situations. Your kindness and grace uplift those around you. You are selfless and this can be seen in your drive to improve and support our behavioral health programs,” Ms. Snyder said, speaking directly to Mrs. Thomas.

Mr. Bullock serves as an RN for the ACT Team using his infectious personality to help people who may not often feel at ease, feel as if they’re chatting with a lifelong friend.

Adam Bullock receives a Behavioral Health Heart Award

“He truly embodies all the qualities that the Behavioral Health Heart Award represents,” Ms. Snyder said. “Through Adams energy and enthusiasm in his role, he sets a powerful example for other to follow. He not only looks out for the wellbeing of the people we serve, but the staff he works with and the overall health of the program too. He exemplifies everything you want a mental health professional to be.”

Quality Assurance Coordinator Heather Worden was the afternoon’s final honoree, earning the Exemplary Professional Services Award.

Compliance and Quality Assurance Manager Jason Matthie noted that Ms. Worden has literally “grown up” within the United Helpers organization, starting as a DSP, then becoming a supervisor and a habilitation coordinator. She then earned her degree and moved into leadership roles, first becoming a Program Leader before moving into her current role.

“Throughout all of those roles Heather has dedicated herself to helping others, lending a hand, putting people first and stepping up to volunteer when people are in need,” Mr. Matthie said. “She has a genuine care to help others succeed.” 

Heather Worden received this year's Exemplary Professional Services Award