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St. John's Healthcare in Victoria Receives Quality First Award 

  WICHITA, KS – St. John's Healthcare in Victoria received a Community Involvement Award from the Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) on April 26, 2008 at their Spring Convention and Tradeshow in Wichita .

This award is presented to KAHSA members who intentionally engage their community in living out the mis­sion of their organization. Successful candidates will demonstrate outstanding community involvement through social accountability, volunteer involvement, community outreach and relationship building.

St. John's received the award for an outpatient clinic that opened in 2006 to serve the health care needs of the entire community of Victoria. The clinic was reopened by Via Christi Senior Services and St. John's Healthcare in Victoria after Hays Medical Center ceased their operations in rural communities.

“We have a real need in the community for healthcare and the clinic is a valuable asset to our citizens,” says Victoria May Curt Unrein. “We are pleased we could work with St. John's to make this a reality.”

“KAHSA applauds the efforts of St. John's Healthcare to reach out into their community and fill an unmet need,” stated Debra Zehr president of KAHSA. “This program stands out as a shining example for other KAHSA members and aging services providers.”

Pleasant View Home Receives Quality First Award 

  WICHITA, KS – Pleasant View Home in Inman received the distinguished Edith L. Stunkel Excellence in Human Resources Award from the Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) at their Spring Convention and Tradeshow on April 25, 2008 in Wichita.

The award is presented in honor of the late Edith L. Stunkel who served KAHSA members by encourag­ing and promoting exceptional practices in human resources. It is presented to a KAHSA member that implements innovative programs designed to support the individual advancement and well being of em­ployees.

Pleasant View Home will be honored for their outstanding multi-focus employment practices. Their program includes hiring practices in which residents and staff participates in the interview process, a specific focus on conflict-resolution, the establishment of a career ladder and the development of strength-based leadership teams in their neighborhoods and households.

“ Finding, growing and sustaining an exceptional workforce is difficult with the many challenges that aging services providers face today. Pleasant View Home is to be commendedfor meeting those challenges and making each individual stakeholder a valuable part of the process,” stated Debra Zehr, president.

The Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) represents not-for-profit (NFP) long-term care provider organizations throughout Kansas. Our 160 members exist solely to serve the unmet needs of elders. They spring from a diverse heritage of religious, fraternal, civic organizations, and local units of government. All share a common benevolent purpose and are committed to a ministry of service, care, and community benefit. KAHSA members serve nearly 20,000 Kansas seniors in retirement communities, nursing homes, hospital long-term care units, assisted living residences, senior housing and through community-based services. This year KAHSA is celebrating the eighteenth year of the Quality First Awards of Excellence for outstanding programs at member organizations.

Lone Tree Retirement Center Receives Quality First Award

  WICHITA, KS – Lone Tree Retirement Center received the Leading Edge Care and Services Award for their Dental Program from the Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging on April 25, 2008 at their Spring Convention and Tradeshow.

This award is presented to a KAHSA member whose innovative programs and services focus on the wellbeing of the elder clinically, socially, spiritually and/or nutritionally.

The Dental Program provides in-house, basic dental exams, cleaning, and referrals for all individuals living in the Retirement Center. The services are available through a mobile unit called Western Prairie Smiles staffed by two dental hygienists. The services are free to all residents because Lone Tree Retirement Center staff raised all of the money to support the service Western Prairie Smiles provides.

“Lone Tree's program is an excellent example to all KAHSA members and other Kansas nursing homes that oral health is an important component in a person's wellness,” stated Debra Zehr president. “Additionally, their staff deserves to be recognized for the outstanding dedication to service and keeping this program free for all of their residents. We are proud to present this award to such a deserving member and program.”

The Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) represents not-for-profit (NFP) long-term care provider organizations throughout Kansas. Our 160 members exist solely to serve the unmet needs of elders. They spring from a diverse heritage of religious, fraternal, civic organizations, and local units of government. All share a common benevolent purpose and are committed to a ministry of service, care, and community benefit. KAHSA members serve nearly 20,000 Kansas seniors in retirement communities, nursing homes, hospital long-term care units, assisted living residences, senior housing and through community-based services. This year KAHSA is celebrating the eighteenth year of the Quality First Awards of Excellence for outstanding programs at member organizations.

Larksfield Place Receives Quality First Award 

  WICHITA, KS – Larksfield Place received a Consumer-Friendly Information Award from the Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging on April 25, 2008 at their Spring Convention and Tradeshow.

The Consumer-Friendly Information Award is presented to a member with programs and services that inform, educate, and effectively communicate their story to current and potential consumers.

Larksfield Place won the award for their outstanding development and presentation of Viewpoint: Local Voices of World War II with KPTS – CH 8, a one-and-one-half hour, two part documentary in which nine local Wichitans shared their memories of World War II. Larksfield Place also hosted outstanding premiers of the documentary for some 300 World War II veterans and family members.

“Larskfield Place has preserved an important time in our history with this series, stated Debra Zehr, KAHSA president. “Bringing the community together to share in this exciting event allows all of us to honor World War II Veterans and celebrate their outstanding contributions.”

The Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) represents not-for-profit (NFP) long-term care provider organizations throughout Kansas. Our 160 members exist solely to serve the unmet needs of elders. They spring from a diverse heritage of religious, fraternal, civic organizations, and local units of government. All share a common benevolent purpose and are committed to a ministry of service, care, and community benefit. KAHSA members serve nearly 20,000 Kansas seniors in retirement communities, nursing homes, hospital long-term care units, assisted living residences, senior housing and through community-based services. This year KAHSA is celebrating the eighteenth year of the Quality First Awards of Excellence for outstanding programs at member organizations.

Carol Hope Bingle to Receive Volunteer of the Year Award

WICHITA, KS – Carol Hope Bingle received a Volunteer of the Year Award from the Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) on April 25, 2007 at their Spring Convention and Tradeshow in Wichita.

This award is presented to a KAHSA member's volunteer whose achievements have made a difference to the lives of the people working and living in member organizations.

“Carol is very self-driven, motivated, kind, loving and full of laughs,” read her nomination. “She is a people person and blessed by God with so many talents”.

Carol has volunteered over 600 hours in the past year at the Sterling Presbyterian Manor. She focuses on each individual person's needs and makes them all feel like special friends of hers. Her dedication to the Manor has been an invaluable service to their residents for over nine years.

“Volunteers are wonderful individuals that help our members live out their missions”, stated KAHSA President Debra Zehr. “Their service is a crucial piece in caring for the entire wellbeing of the elder.”

The Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) represents not-for-profit (NFP) long-term care provider organizations throughout Kansas. Our 160 members exist solely to serve the unmet needs of elders. They spring from a diverse heritage of religious, fraternal, civic organizations, and local units of government. All share a common benevolent purpose and are committed to a ministry of service, care, and community benefit. KAHSA members serve nearly 20,000 Kansas seniors in retirement communities, nursing homes, hospital long-term care units, assisted living residences, senior housing and through community-based services. This year KAHSA is celebrating the eighteenth year of the Quality First Awards of Excellence for outstanding programs at member organizations.

Eileen Miller Receives Caregiver of the Year Award

WICHITA, KS – Eileen Miller, Director of Resident Services at Village Shalom in Overland Park received the Caregiver of the Year Award from the Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) on April 25, 2008 at their Spring Convention and Tradeshow in Wichita.

This award is presented to a KAHSA member's activity professional, social work­er, nurse, nurse aide, dietary worker or environmental services worker who demonstrates remarkable commitment to the elders they serve.

Miller has worked in long-term care for over 14 years serving seniors in Pennsylvania and Kansas through the activities and wellness areas. She is a true universal worker who can step into nearly any role at Village Shalom with a heart-felt focus on the needs and desires of the residents.

A support letter from one of the residents she works with read: “Family, to me is the essence of life. With Eileen at the head, we have guidance, our health is her concern, she is sensitive to our needs and when she is near we somehow feel that all is well.”

“Caregivers are at the heart of any aging services organization and should be recognized for their extraordinary gifts,” stated Debra Zehr, president of KAHSA. “We are pleased to present this award to such a deserving caregiver and advocate for Kansas seniors.”

The Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) represents not-for-profit (NFP) long-term care provider organizations throughout Kansas. Our 160 members exist solely to serve the unmet needs of elders. They spring from a diverse heritage of religious, fraternal, civic organizations, and local units of government. All share a common benevolent purpose and are committed to a ministry of service, care, and community benefit. KAHSA members serve nearly 20,000 Kansas seniors in retirement communities, nursing homes, hospital long-term care units, assisted living residences, senior housing and through community-based services. This year KAHSA is celebrating the eighteenth year of the Quality First Awards of Excellence for outstanding programs at member organizations.

Richard Catlett Receives Lifetime Achievement Award

WICHITA, KS – Richard Catlett of Lakeview Village Retirement Community in Lenexa received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) for their 2008 Quality First Awards of Excellence Program on April 25, 2008 in Wichita.

Presented to a KAHSA member's CEO, administrator, employee, trustee or board member. Individuals who, over an extended period of time, have made a significant contribution to the aging services field which has resulted in a lasting and meaningful legacy accom­plished through such things as innovation, dedication, leadership and the effective use of available resources.

Catlett will receive this award for his tireless work in aging services in Kansas. He has served Lakeview Village for 33 years as a board member and then CEO and on KAHSA's Board of Directors for many years. He was instrumental in keeping non-profit retirement communities' property tax-free. Catlett's most recent accomplishment was to bring Whole Person Wellness to Lakeview Village's seniors and establish Kansas as a leader in that area.

“Richard is a man of principled leadership and steadfast commitment to the elderly,” states Debra Zehr, president. “He has left an indelible mark in the association and the field of aging services.  His leadership at Lakeview Village, on the KAHSA Board, and in the halls of the Kansas Statehouse and Congress has helped improve the quality of life for many older Kansans.  It is a privilege to count him as a colleague and to honor him with this special award”

The Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) represents not-for-profit (NFP) long-term care provider organizations throughout Kansas. Our 160 members exist solely to serve the unmet needs of elders. They spring from a diverse heritage of religious, fraternal, civic organizations, and local units of government. All share a common benevolent purpose and are committed to a ministry of service, care, and community benefit. KAHSA members serve nearly 20,000 Kansas seniors in retirement communities, nursing homes, hospital long-term care units, assisted living residences, senior housing and through community-based services. This year KAHSA is celebrating the eighteenth year of the Quality First Awards of Excellence for outstanding programs at member organizations.

WILLIE NOVOTNY ELECTED TO STATE BOARD

TOPEKA, KS - Willie Novotny was elected to serve on the Board of Directors of the Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) at their Annual Business Meeting on October 4, 2007.

Willie is the COO at Meadowlark Hills, a KAHSA member CCRC in Manhattan. Willie is an inspirational, on-the-ground leader in the ongoing person-centered transformation of Meadowlark Hills. He serves the community of Manhattan as Vice Chair of Big Brothers Big Sisters and is on the Kansas Culture Change Coalition Board of Directors. He received his bachelor's degree from Kansas State University.

"We are very pleased to announce the addition of Willie to KAHSA's board of directors," stated Debra Harmon Zehr, President of KAHSA. "Willie's background in person-centered care, along with his commitment to growing leaders in aging services makes him a great addition to our distinguished board. We look forward to leveraging Willie's significant expertise in our field and perspective as we continue KAHSA's mission."

The Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) represents not-for-profit (NFP) long-term care provider organizations throughout Kansas. Our 160 members exist solely to serve the unmet needs of elders. They spring from a diverse heritage of religious, fraternal, civic organizations, and local units of government. All share a common benevolent purpose and are committed to a ministry of service, care, and community benefit. KAHSA members serve nearly 20,000 Kansas seniors in retirement communities, nursing homes, hospital long-term care units, assisted living residences, senior housing and through community-based services.

KEVIN REIMER ELECTED TO STATE BOARD

TOPEKA, KS - Kevin Reimer was elected to serve on the Board of Directors of the Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) at their Annual Business Meeting on October 4, 2007.

Reimer is the CEO of Pleasant View Home in Inman, Kansas and has been a member of KAHSA for nearly 15 years. He has been active in the association and an ardent advocate of the not-for-profit philosophy and leader for quality of care and diversification of services for many years. Under Kevin's leadership, Pleasant View has become a state and national leader in person-centered care.

"We are very pleased to announce the addition of Kevin Reimer to KAHSA's board of directors," stated Debra Harmon Zehr, president of KAHSA. "Kevin's extensive background in aging services, along with his significant experience and knowledge of person-centered care makes him a great addition to our distinguished board. We look forward to leveraging Kevin's significant expertise in our field and perspective as we continue KAHSA's mission."

The Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) represents not-for-profit (NFP) long-term care provider organizations throughout Kansas. Our 160 members exist solely to serve the unmet needs of elders. They spring from a diverse heritage of religious, fraternal, civic organizations, and local units of government. All share a common benevolent purpose and are committed to a ministry of service, care, and community benefit. KAHSA members serve nearly 20,000 Kansas seniors in retirement communities, nursing homes, hospital long-term care units, assisted living residences, senior housing and through community-based services.

KIMBERLY HYNEK ELECTED TO STATE BOARD

TOPEKA, KS - Kim Hynek was elected to serve on the Board of Directors of the Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) at their Annual Business Meeting on October 4, 2007.

Ms. Hynek is the CFO at Lakeview Village in Lenexa, a KAHSA member CCRC that serves 850 residents. Kim is a highly-motivated emerging leader in not-for-profit aging services with a special gift for strategic thinking and questioning. She has experience and expertise in finance, human resources and education, marketing and information systems. She was a member of the inaugural class of Leadership AAHSA and has been tapped as a Ziegler fellow this coming year. Kim is a licensed adult care home administrator and trained CCAC/CARF accreditation surveyor. Kim received her bachelor's degree from Friends University and her MBA from Baker University.

"We are very pleased to announce the addition of Kim Hynek to KAHSA's board of directors," stated Debra Harmon Zehr, president of KAHSA. "Kim's extensive background in aging services, along with his significant experience and knowledge of leadership makes her a great addition to our distinguished board. We look forward to leveraging Kim's significant expertise in our field and perspective as we continue KAHSA's mission."

The Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) represents not-for-profit (NFP) long-term care provider organizations throughout Kansas. Our 160 members exist solely to serve the unmet needs of elders. They spring from a diverse heritage of religious, fraternal, civic organizations, and local units of government. All share a common benevolent purpose and are committed to a ministry of service, care, and community benefit. KAHSA members serve nearly 20,000 Kansas seniors in retirement communities, nursing homes, hospital long-term care units, assisted living residences, senior housing and through community-based services.

RAY VERNON ELECTED TREASURER OF STATE BOARD

TOPEKA, KS – Ray Vernon was elected to serve as Treasurer of the Board of Directors of the Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) at their Annual Business Meeting on October 4, 2007.
Vernon is the CEO of Wesley Towers in Hutchinson, Kansas. He has served the membership well on the board for 3 years. As a member of the Board’s Finance Committee, Ray has been instrumental in our success as an association. In addition, Ray is unsurpassed when it comes to advocacy with elected officials on behalf of the people KAHSA members serve.
“We are very pleased to announce the election of Ray Vernon as Treasurer of KAHSA’s board of directors,” stated Debra Harmon Zehr, president of KAHSA. “Ray’s extensive background in aging services and outstanding contributions to the association makes him an excellent treasurer of our distinguished board.”
The Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) represents not-for-profit (NFP) long-term care provider organizations throughout Kansas. Our 160 members exist solely to serve the unmet needs of elders. They spring from a diverse heritage of religious, fraternal, civic organizations, and local units of government. All share a common benevolent purpose and are committed to a ministry of service, care, and community benefit. KAHSA members serve nearly 20,000 Kansas seniors in retirement communities, nursing homes, hospital long-term care units, assisted living residences, senior housing and through community-based services.

CAROLYN FRANKAMP RE-ELECTED SECRETARY OF STATE BOARD

TOPEKA, KS – Carolyn Frankamp was elected to serve as Secretary for a second term to the Board of Directors of the Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) at their Annual Business Meeting on October 4, 2007.
Frankamp is the Administrator of Republic County Hospital Long-Term Care Unit in Belleville, Kansas. This is her second term as secretary for the Board.
“We are very pleased to announce the re-election of Carolyn as Secretary of KAHSA’s board of directors for a second term,” stated Debra Harmon Zehr, president of KAHSA. “Carolyn has been a excellent addition to our board and advocate for long-term care units of hospitals in our membership.”
The Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) represents not-for-profit (NFP) long-term care provider organizations throughout Kansas. Our 160 members exist solely to serve the unmet needs of elders. They spring from a diverse heritage of religious, fraternal, civic organizations, and local units of government. All share a common benevolent purpose and are committed to a ministry of service, care, and community benefit. KAHSA members serve nearly 20,000 Kansas seniors in retirement communities, nursing homes, hospital long-term care units, assisted living residences, senior housing and through community-based services.

JIM MORFORD ELECTED CHAIR ELECT OF STATE BOARD

TOPEKA, KS – Jim Morford was elected to serve as Chair Elect of the Board of Directors of the Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) at their Annual Business Meeting on October 4, 2007.
Morford is the Executive Director of the Good Samaritan Society of Ellsworth in Ellsworth, Kansas. He has been a member of the KAHSA board since 2004, and was elected to the AAHSA House of Delegates in 2005. He is a leading voice for rural concerns on the board, a role model for service diversification, and a passionate advocate for not-for-profit, mission-based long term care.
“We are very pleased to announce the election of Jim Morford as Chair-Elect of KAHSA’s board of directors,” stated Debra Harmon Zehr, president of KAHSA. “Jim’s dedication and passion to serve elders in aging services makes him an excellent choice as future chair of KAHSA.”
The Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) represents not-for-profit (NFP) long-term care provider organizations throughout Kansas. Our 160 members exist solely to serve the unmet needs of elders. They spring from a diverse heritage of religious, fraternal, civic organizations, and local units of government. All share a common benevolent purpose and are committed to a ministry of service, care, and community benefit. KAHSA members serve nearly 20,000 Kansas seniors in retirement communities, nursing homes, hospital long-term care units, assisted living residences, senior housing and through community-based services.

PAM BACHMAN ELECTED CHAIR OF STATE BOARD

TOPEKA, KS – Pamela Bachman was elected to serve as the Chari of the Board of Directors of the Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) at their Annual Business Meeting on October 4, 2007.
Bachman is the administrator at Eastridge, a nursing home that serves 41 older Kansans in Centralia, Kansas. Pam has served on the KAHSA board since 2003, and has also been a member of the Board’s Finance Committee. Pam is an articulate, analytical, common-sense leader. She has a passion for policy work and a heart for the special needs and circumstances of rural elders and their care providers.
“We are very pleased to announce the election of Pam Bachman as Chair of KAHSA’s board of directors,” stated Debra Harmon Zehr, president of KAHSA. “Pam’s background in aging services and outstanding contributions to the association makes her a great leader of our distinguished board. I look forward to working closely with Pam as we continue KAHSA’s mission.”
The Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) represents not-for-profit (NFP) long-term care provider organizations throughout Kansas. Our 160 members exist solely to serve the unmet needs of elders. They spring from a diverse heritage of religious, fraternal, civic organizations, and local units of government. All share a common benevolent purpose and are committed to a ministry of service, care, and community benefit. KAHSA members serve nearly 20,000 Kansas seniors in retirement communities, nursing homes, hospital long-term care units, assisted living residences, senior housing and through community-based services.

TOPEKA -- Our communities are strong because of the generations who came before and those who continue to care for each other. Each May, individuals who serve elders in nursing homes and retirement communities celebrate Older Americans Month and host special events for Homes for the Aging Week, which begins on Mother's Day. This year, Kansas is celebrating with the theme "Linking Generations" and paying tribute to the older adults we serve as well as the younger generations who follow in their footsteps. Homes for the Aging Week runs from May 13 th through May 19 th .

"We celebrate Homes for the Aging Week by honoring the wisdom, joy and love older adults have to share with other generations and by opening our doors to the community so everyone can share their enjoyment of their friends and neighbors who live in and receive services from aging services organizations across the state, " states Debra Harmon Zehr, president.

The Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) represents not-for-profit (NFP) long-term care provider organizations throughout Kansas. Our 160 members exist solely to serve the unmet needs of elders. They spring from a diverse heritage of religious, fraternal, civic organizations, and local units of government. All share a common benevolent purpose and are committed to a ministry of service, care, and community benefit. KAHSA members serve nearly 20,000 Kansas seniors in retirement communities, nursing homes, hospital long-term care units, assisted living residences, senior housing and through community-based services. This year KAHSA is celebrating the seventeenth year of the Quality First Awards of Excellence for outstanding programs at member organizations.

Bob Bethell Receives Advocate Of The Year Award

WICHITA, KS - Bob Bethell, Kansas State Legislator and Vice President of Via Christi Senior Services received an Advocate of the Year Award by the Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) on April 27, 2007 at their Spring Convention and Tradeshow in Wichita .

This Award is presented to an individual or group who is a champion for elders and has provided outstanding advocacy leadership on behalf of older Kansans.

Bethell has served elders for almost 20 years in various positions including nursing home administrator and representative for the 113th District in the Kansas Legislature. Through the years, Bob has worked tirelessly on behalf of older Kansans to expand long-term care services and ensure access to quality health care for all elder Kansans.

In addition to his administrative and legislative duties, Bethell serves as a visiting lecturer at Friends University's new Master of Healthcare Leadership program, providing students with insight into the budgetary process in the State of Kansas and the funding of health care initiatives.

"Bob Bethell is an excellent advocate for Kansas elders and the long-term care community," says Debra Zehr president of KAHSA. "We applaud his long history of service and are pleased to honor him with this award."

Jeanine Pumphrey receives Volunteer of the Year Award

WICHITA, KS - Jeanine Pumphrey received the Volunteer of the Year Award from the Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) on April 27, 2007 at their Spring Convention and Tradeshow in Wichita.

This award is presented to a KAHSA member's volunteer whose achievements have made a difference to the lives of the people working and living in member organizations.

"Rise in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly, and revere your God" are the words Jeanine Pumphrey lives by every day. She has served Catholic Care Center as a volunteer since 1999 loving and serving many elders.

What sets Jeanine apart as a volunteer is not just her dedication to the many she has so diligently served over the years, but the legacy she leaves in her commitment to teaching young people the value of volunteering. As a youth leader for high school student in her church community, she has inspired, nurtured and encouraged many of them to become active in ministering to the elderly and shut-ins. Her own children have continued to serve elders in nursing homes throughout Wichita. Because of the example Jeanine has set, many young people have learned the blessings of giving to those in need of a friend and companion.

"Volunteers are wonderful individuals that help our members live out their missions", states KAHSA President Debra Zehr. "Their service is an essential piece in caring for the entire wellbeing of the elder."

The Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) represents not-for-profit (NFP) long-term care provider organizations throughout Kansas. Our 160 members exist solely to serve the unmet needs of elders. They spring from a diverse heritage of religious, fraternal, civic organizations, and local units of government. All share a common benevolent purpose and are committed to a ministry of service, care, and community benefit. KAHSA members serve nearly 20,000 Kansas seniors in retirement communities, nursing homes, hospital long-term care units, assisted living residences, senior housing and through community-based services. This year KAHSA is celebrating the seventeenth year of the Quality First Awards of Excellence for outstanding programs at member organizations.

Lisa Lee receives Caregiver of The Year Award

WICHITA, KS - Lisa Lee, CNA at Schowalter Villa in Hesston received the Caregiver of the Year for the Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) on April 27, 2007 at their Spring Convention and Tradeshow in Wichita.

This award is presented to a KAHSA member's activity professional, social work­er, nurse, nurse aide, dietary worker or environmental services worker who demonstrates remarkable commitment to the elders they serve.

Lisa's life was tragically cut short on December 31, 2006 in a car accident. This unexpected loss has led the staff and residents of Schowalter Villa on a journey of learning and growing together. When a memorial service was held to celebrate Lisa's life, it was evident she carried a strong dedication to be the best caregiver possible and that she made a difference every day in the lives of elders.

"I encourage all KAHSA members to take time to notice the gems in your midst." stated Debra Zehr, president of KAHSA. "Caregivers are at the heart of any aging services organization and should be recognized for their extraordinary gifts. "

The Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) represents not-for-profit (NFP) long-term care provider organizations throughout Kansas. Our 160 members exist solely to serve the unmet needs of elders. They spring from a diverse heritage of religious, fraternal, civic organizations, and local units of government. All share a common benevolent purpose and are committed to a ministry of service, care, and community benefit. KAHSA members serve nearly 20,000 Kansas seniors in retirement communities, nursing homes, hospital long-term care units, assisted living residences, senior housing and through community-based services. This year KAHSA is celebrating the seventeenth year of the Quality First Awards of Excellence for outstanding programs at member organizations.

Parsons Good Samaritan Center Receives Quality First Award

TOPEKA, KS - Parsons Good Samaritan Center received a Quality First Leading Edge Care and Services Award by the Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) on April 27, 2007 at their Spring Convention and Tradeshow in Wichita.

This award is presented to a KAHSA organization whose innovative programs and services focus on the wellbeing of the elder clinically, socially, spiritually and/or nutritionally. Suc­cessful candidates will demonstrate practices that celebrate the elder as an individual.

Parson's Good Samaritan Center received this award for their innovative "Family Room Concept" in which elders with Alzheimer's disease are provided with an alternative place to receive programming instead of a locked special care unit. It accomplishes the goals of providing a safe, life enhancing environment that improves the overall wellbeing of the elder.

The Family Room provides meals and activities to elders living at the Good Samaritan Center. The results include less agitation, better sleep patterns, improved appetite, increased social interaction, decreased need for medications and a decreased incidence of falls for elders.

The Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) represents not-for-profit (NFP) long-term care provider organizations throughout Kansas. Our 160 members exist solely to serve the unmet needs of elders. They spring from a diverse heritage of religious, fraternal, civic organizations, and local units of government. All share a common benevolent purpose and are committed to a ministry of service, care, and community benefit. KAHSA members serve nearly 20,000 Kansas seniors in retirement communities, nursing homes, hospital long-term care units, assisted living residences, senior housing and through community-based services. This year KAHSA is celebrating the seventeenth year of the Quality First Awards of Excellence for outstanding programs at member organizations.

Hoeger House Receives Quality First Award

WICHITA, KS - Hoeger House received a 2007 Leading Edge Care and Services Award by the Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) on April 27, 2007. The awards program was part of the nonprofit association's annual spring convention at the Wichita Airport Hilton.

This award is presented to a KAHSA organization whose innovative programs and services focus on the wellbeing of the elder clinically, socially, spiritually and/or nutritionally. Suc­cessful candidates will demonstrate practices that celebrate the elder as an individual.

The Hoeger House is an innovative program of the Olathe Good Samaritan Communities in Olathe focusing on short-term rehabilitation stays in a home-like environment. It meets a critical need in the community for a place where people can go for rehabilitation that was previously unavailable in the Kansas City Metro area. Hoeger House features 17 all private suites, a state of the art therapy room, spa, Kitchen and social/family room.

"Hoeger House is a unique service that is not currently offered anywhere else in the state, "states Debra Zehr, KAHSA president. "It sets the stage for other innovative designs and programs for elders in Kansas.

The Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) represents not-for-profit (NFP) long-term care provider organizations throughout Kansas. Our 160 members exist solely to serve the unmet needs of elders.

They spring from a diverse heritage of religious, fraternal, civic organizations, and local units of government. All share a common benevolent purpose and are committed to a ministry of service, care, and community benefit. KAHSA members serve nearly 20,000 Kansas seniors in retirement communities, nursing homes, hospital long-term care units, assisted living residences, senior housing and through community-based services. This year KAHSA is celebrating the seventeenth year of the Quality First Awards of Excellence for outstanding programs at member organizations.

Sandstone Heights Receives Quality First Award

  WICHITA, KS - Sandstone Heights received a Community Involvement Award by the Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) on April 27, 2007 at their Spring Convention and Tradeshow in Wichita .

This award is presented to KAHSA members who intentionally engage their community in living out the mis­sion of their organization. Successful candidates will demonstrate outstanding community involvement through social accountability, volunteer involvement, community outreach and relationship building.

In the late summer of 2006, the town of Little River came together in an effort to promote their small community. The goal was to attract new residents by advertising the businesses and services in Little River. They accomplished this by running a series of advertisements on local television stations over a period of months.

Sandstone Heights played a large role in the advertising campaign by making the initial contact with the news station and coordinating efforts in the community. As a result, their organization received an excellent spot in the advertisements which placed their nursing home and elders in a wonderful light.

Brewster Place Receives Quality First Award

WICHITA, KS - Brewster Place Retirement Community received a Quality First Excellence in Governance Accountability Award from the Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) on April 27, 2007 at their Spring Convention and Tradeshow in Wichita.

This award is presented to KAHSA members who demonstrate high standards of management and governance in their organizations. Successful candidates will have achieved exceptional practices in board training, social accountability, financial stewardship, and development of corporate compliance and standards.

Brewster Place won for their outstanding program "Planning and Improvement Cycle". This cycle operates on two main principals. The first, excellence is achieved through shared vision and teamwork brings board members, management, staff and residents together to set and achieve their goals. The second states that continuous quality improvement is essential to meet and exceed our residents' expectations .

"Quality begins with effective board governance." states Debra Zehr, KAHSA president. "Brewster Place has demonstrated that they are committed to living out their non-profit mission through a concentrated focus in this area."

Via Christi Senior Services Receives Quality First Award

WICHITA, KS - Via Christi Senior Services received a Quality First Excellence in Governance Accountability Award from the Kansas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (KAHSA) on April 27, 2007 at their Spring Convention and Tradeshow in Wichita.

This award is presented to KAHSA members who demonstrate high standards of management and governance in their organizations. Successful candidates will have achieved exceptional practices in board training, social accountability, financial stewardship, and development of corporate compliance and standards.

Via Christi Senior Services won for their comprehensive work on board development including education and strategic planning.

"Quality begins with effective board governance." states Debra Zehr, KAHSA president. "Via Christi Senior Services has demonstrated that they are committed to living out their non-profit mission through a concentrated focus in this area."