Awards

The Oregon Health Care Foundation annually recognizes and honors professionals who have contributed to the Foundation’s development and are dedicated to the future growth and success of its programs.  Awards are recognized at the OHCF Annual Celebration of Supporters at the Oregon Health Care Association Annual Awards Luncheon at the Fall Convention. 

If you would like to submit a nomination for the 2010 awards, please check this website for updated nomination forms to be posted in 2010, or contact us.  

 

2009 OHCF Senior Wish Champion
Donna McCario, Life Enrichment Director
Avamere Rehabilitation of Salem

Donna McCario is best known in her community for the passion and commitment she shows in celebrating the lives of her residents through the Senior Wish program.  Donna has the ability to identify what makes each of her residents uniquely happy and fulfilled, inspiring and uniting those working and living at Avamere Rehab of Salem to realize their dreams and those of others around them.

Upon completion of her first OHCF Senior Wish Training session Donna immediately put her newly acquired skills to use to make a former pilot’s wish to fly again come true.  She assembled a team at her community, secured contributions of resources, and garnered positive public awareness about her community in the media.

Donna achieved a flight donation from Diamond LLC who took resident Dick Wagner, an 88 year old retired air force captain, up for a 20 minute flight during which he was given  control and flew the plane for a period of time.  Donna arranged donated transportation through Starlight Limousine to surprise Dick with a ride from his community to the Salem Airport and coordinated plans with a Polynesian staff member to present him with a traditional lei upon his arrival.   Thanks to Donna and the Avamere team, Dick’s wish was realized in the company of his family, dedicated staff members, and the KOIN 6 TV news team who aired his story during their evening program.  When asked about his Senior Wish experience Dick said his ability to fly the plane came right back.  Dick then asked when he'd get to go up again.

Donna credits the Senior Wish program for enhancing morale at her community and giving her team an opportunity to demonstrate the admiration and respect they have for their residents.  Donna’s successes also include making a resident’s dream to ride a motorcycle come true and arranging a touching reunion for a married couple whose health conditions prevent frequent visits.

Because of Donna’s good work, Avamere Rehab of Salem will receive a $500 award for life enrichment programs.  Keep up the good work Donna, you are a true champion!


To Read About Past Award Winners Click here 



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