Tuan “Tom” Pham, Admin
Tuan “Tom” Pham has been with CARE Hawaii as an Accounting Clerk since May 2004. Through the years Tom has seen the company go through many changes. Some of these changes required Tom to adjust his scope of work and take on more responsibilities. Because of Tom’s “team player” attitude he was able to accept these changes in stride. Tom consistently personifies the characteristics of a loyal and hard worker. He is not only a devoted employee but his friendly attitude makes everyone feel supported. CARE Hawaii is very fortunate to have Tom as an employee, we truly appreciate his dedication and would like to recognize his efforts as this month’s recipient of the Administrative Employee of the Month Award.
Emily Aquino, Residential Case Manager, Oahu LCRS
Emily has worked for Care Hawaii for several years. She often took a back seat to some of the stronger RCMs and quietly served. Since March of 2011 she has had to step up to the plate and spearhead daily operations at the LCRS, quickly taking over responsibilities that were done by a former employee. She never complains and works tirelessly to ensure that files are properly maintained, clients are cared for, rounds are updated, etc. She works well with the nursing staff, always keeps the LCRS Team Leader informed, and has a "servant's heart" when it comes to advocating for consumers.
The recent OCHA inspection is a true testament to her hard work. She jumped right in to assist the new Program Assistant to get the LCRS ready for inspection. It has to be noted that the LCRS received NO CITATIONS for any files or consumer records (perfect score!). The most amazing thing about Emily is that her degree is in business, not the social sciences. She started working within the mental health field to augment her income, but wasn't comfortable conducting groups or engaging with consumers. Several months ago she was challenged during routine supervision to work on her ability to overcome her apprehension with consumers. Since that challenge she has worked to be able to conduct groups and engage clients fearlessly. She has a positive attitude; accepts constructive criticism with humility; and always takes responsibility for her actions (never blame shifting and always willing to improve).
She actually works towards the team mission, EVERYDAY.
Her committment to the company, the program, and the clients is admirable. She is a credit to herself, the program, and Care Hawaii. She deserves to be recognized for her selfless service.
Mara Miller, CMO/CSM Crisis Therapist, Kona
Mara has stepped up to the challenge of being the only FT Crisis Therapist on staff for both CMO and CSM. She has done everything from covering many 24 hours shifts because her relief was unable, to tirelessly initiating in service presentations to educate the Kona community on what Crisis Services can offer, to coordinating with and making positive relationships with the Kona Hospital and other providers.
Mara initiated and followed through on her project to improve the visual quality of the CMO/CSM intake packet. She works well independently, has excellent progress notes, and always puts the consumer first even if she has to drive an hour and a half to reach him at the third house past the second telephone pole behind the three coconut trees.
Denise Austin, Residential Services
Denise has worked for Care Hawaii for the past 8 years. Her work ethic is exceptional; always looking to help clients achieve the goal of independence. Since my involvement with Residential services, Denise has been the "go to" person for the Group Homes and she is always willing to sacrifice her time (often pulling multiple shifts) for the betterment of the program.
She is selfless and often comes in sick to cover for her fellow teammates. I even submitted her for an increase in pay a couple of months ago because of her dedication and hard work. When I asked her what her motivation was she replied "I love the client, I love the work, and any part I can be to help them move forward I want to be a part of that."
Denise is truly a SERVANT and her efforts deserve recognition. For these reasons Denise Austin is my candidate for employee of the month for Residential Services.
Cathy Ogino-Williams, CBCM Hilo
I am writing this recommendation on behalf of Cathy Ogino-Williams for outstanding work with difficult consumer. She was able to coordinate with several providers to bring consumer to a safe environment where he can receive treatment. She coordinated services with Adult Protective Services, the Courts, Hilo Medical Center, and arranged for a Guardian to be appointed to oversee treatment and make decisions on behave of consumer. This was a very complicated case and Cathy executed her duties as CM in a very professional manner. In addition, Cathy was able to perform her other duties as CM in a timely and professional manner. Her notes were w/in the 72 hours timeline and she consistently made updates to her files. She has always conducted herself as a professional whose knowledge and ability surpasses what is expected of her position. She is truly an outstanding worker and Care Hawaii appreciates and recognizes her work with this commendation.
She has met the following requirements as a candidate for employee of the month.