AMERICUS, GA – The Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving (RCI) honored the work of Georgia’s extraordinary caregivers at RCI’s 2019 Caregiver of the Year Awards Ceremony. Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter presented this year’s awards to three caregivers who have gone above and beyond their call of duty:
- Family Caregiver: Beth Thompson, Atlanta, GA
- Para-professional Caregiver: Sandy Veach, Meansville, GA
- Volunteer Caregiver: John Rowlands, Warner Robins, GA
“The 2019 Caregivers of the Year Awards recognize the selfless work done by caregivers here in Georgia,” said RCI Executive Director Dr. Jennifer Olsen. “These tireless efforts too often go unrecognized and these awards highlight the critical role caregivers play in supporting their loved ones.”
The Caregiver of the Year Awards recognize these selfless people for their acts of compassion and empathy, and their extraordinary commitment as caregivers who are currently providing care in the following three categories: family caregiving, para-professional caregiving, and volunteer caregiving.
Caregivers may be nominated by those able to evaluate their performance and demonstrate how they are making a difference in the lives of the care recipients they serve.
Background:
- The Family Caregiver Award is presented to a family member or non-relative close friend who provides assistance to a person with a disability, chronic illness or other condition requiring support and assistance to have a full life in the community.
- The Para-professional Caregiver Award is presented to licensed practical nurses (LPNs), therapy aides, home health aides, certified nursing assistants (CNAs), nurse’s aides/patient care technicians, or direct support caregivers such as companions or sitters for their work.
- The Volunteer Caregiver Award is presented to a volunteer that has completed at least one year of service caring for an individual or individuals in a capacity that aids and/or improves their life. Additionally, this could also be someone who supports caregivers by volunteering at a caregiving organization or facility.