Employees and partners alike embrace peopleCare’s 2025 Values Awards

At peopleCare, our Values are more than words, they are ingrained in how we work, connect and care for close to six decades. That’s why we feel so strongly about recognizing and celebrating the incredible individuals who bring these values to life in our homes, going above and beyond to support residents, families and fellow team members in meaningful ways.

Every year, our more than 1,000 employees and our partners embrace peopleCare’s peer-nominated Values Awards program. This year was no different as we received 221 nominations from across peopleCare’s retirement, long-term care homes and leadership support office. That’s an incredible 45% increase over last year and the highest number to date.

In total, we were thrilled to honour 35 outstanding employees as 2025 winners. Nominated by their peers, these team members exemplify what it means to work with heart and purpose. This year’s diverse group of winners includes team members from across departments and homes, and both new and long-time employees alike, with many receiving multiple nominations. What they all share is a deep commitment to supporting others, showing up with integrity and making a difference every day.

Brent and Heather Gingerich, third-generation family owners of peopleCare, are deeply grateful to the dedicated team members who continue to live the Values that have shaped the organization for nearly six decades.

“By living our values, you lead within your homes and set the bar for quality, care and compassion. The standard to which you hold yourselves is what sets peopleCare apart. Collectively, you create that ‘unique and special feeling’ that people speak about when they enter a peopleCare home. We’re a great organization because of you.”

Each winner was recognized in their home with a celebration among coworkers, residents and families. They were also invited to a special luncheon at the Puddicombe House in New Hamburg, which was a chance to connect with peers from across the organization while we toasted to their many contributions.

A big part of what makes this annual recognition program so meaningful is the involvement of our trusted partners, who serve on the evaluation committee and take on the challenging task of selecting the winners. John Arvanitis from Arvan Rehab calls the stories behind the nominations “nothing short of inspirational,” while noting how difficult it is to choose among so many deserving nominees. Kyle Donovan from Seasons shared his continued enthusiasm, “So awesome and so proud to continue to be a part of it, an entire decade later!,” while new committee member Brynn Varey from Agewise added, “Happy to support this great initiative.”

A heartfelt thanks to all our evaluators, including the above partners and CMO Dr. Tracy Hughes, ProResp’s Kelly Munoz, Deb Bakti from Think Breakthrough and Sysco’s Josie Ballucci.

Next time you visit one of our homes, we hope you’ll join us in celebrating the incredible impact of our 2025 Values Award winners and all the nominees. Their compassion and commitment to creating life-enriching experiences continue to inspire us all.