The annual award nominated by co-workers recognizes employees who go above and beyond
Avow recognized employees who go “above and beyond” with Heart of Avow awards on Dec. 1. The employees are nominated by coworkers for personal and professional conduct that exemplifies the compassion of hospice care. This year more than two dozen nominations were received for the annual award.
“Cheers to the Avow Hospice family and our extended village of supporters – it takes all of you to honor these big hearts that make a difference every day,” said Annalise Smith, Avow’s chief philanthropy officer. “Our teams work so hard to deliver exceptional care and compassionate support to all those who need it, and it’s important that we stop to recognize their dedication to our mission and all those we serve. All those honored truly exemplify the heart of Avow.”
In addition to recognition by fellow employees, each honoree receives a $500 bonus. Awardees were:
- Heather Golden, marketing liaison, was nominated for being a team player, including taking on additional projects. She coordinates and leads meetings with team members to ensure issues are addressed to everyone’s satisfaction. She supports Avow in the community by volunteering for festivals and walks and participating with Avow’s LGBTQ+ group members. Outside of work, she works with youth in programs including Big Brothers/Big Sisters.
- Anjulee Kurth, nursing supervisor, who started at Avow as an LPN in 2015, went on to receive her RN and CHPN certifications. Fellow employees recognized her for her help to patients and staff, sense of humor and compassion. She is a team player, and even came in at 4 a.m. to help cover a night shift when another employee had a family emergency.
- Lindita Dvorani, clinical support specialist, started at Avow in 2022 and is known for showing compassion for patients, families and coworkers, both on the phone and in-person. She enjoys celebrating birthdays, employee milestones and is never without a warm smile on her face. After events, she’s the one who sneaks in and cleans up.
- Madison Weeks, a board-certified music therapist, has been working at Avow for a little over a year as the first full-time music therapist for Avow Kids. There, she facilitates creative expressions for groups ages 5 -10 and 11-17, as well as working with kids individually and in groups at schools and at Aunt Janet’s House. She also supports adult patients in the Hospice House with music, calming anxiety and providing comfort to patients and their families.
The awards were presented at the annual holiday party and supported by the family of patient Janet Welch at the Wyndemere Country Club.
