This year 94 staff members were recognized, including special honours for four staff reaching 30 years of service, one reaching 40 years, and one reaching an extraordinary 45 years with Menno Place. Altogether these staff members represent a remarkable 1,076 combined years of service—a legacy of care, consistency, and commitment that has touched thousands of lives.

Serving at Menno Place Since 1981

The 45-year honouree, Ester Darco, joined the Housekeeping and Laundry team back in 1981. Nik Van Egdom, Manager of Environmental Services at Menno Place, described Ester as “a wonderful housekeeper who goes out of her way to make sure the residents feel loved.”

The 40-year honoree, Vannareth Chang is part of the Dining Experience team. Her manager highlighted her thoughtful eye for improvement and her heart for making things better for residents and colleagues alike.

Four members of the care team were recognized for 30 years of service in Menno Home and Menno Hospital and each one was recognized by their manager:

• Lana Bessett was praised for her willingness to teach and lead by example.
• Deirdre Rosie was celebrated for her care rooted in dignity and kindness.
• Ronald Simon was appreciated for keeping residents’ concerns close to heart and faithfully following through.
• Heather Taylor was admired for always putting residents first and treating each person with compassion, dignity, and respect.

Outstanding Achievement Awards

In addition to long-service awards, three Outstanding Achievement Awards were presented—Everyday Hero, Living Our Values, and Best Leader. These awards carry special meaning because the recipients are nominated by the members from all across the Menno Place community.  This year, nearly 100 nominations were submitted by residents, families, and staff, recognizing 78 staff members from every team and every area of our campus. These nominations are powerful affirmation of trust, impact, and everyday excellence.

This year’s winners were:

• Best Leader – Lana Harder, Housekeeping and Laundry
• Everyday Hero – Julie Toopitsin, LPN
• Living Our Values – Rhonda Henderson, Housekeeping and Laundry

At Menno Place, they believe that honouring their staff is not just a good organizational practice—it is part of their calling. They are guided by a commitment to serve with compassionate Christian care, and they recognize that this care is lived out daily through the hands, hearts, and faithfulness of their people.

As CEO Sujata Connors shared in closing, “We know that God is here at Menno Place. I see it every single day. Thank you for continuing to work here and support our mission to provide wonderful, compassionate, Christian care for our residents and for each other.”