(Courtesy of Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest) Each year, with generous support from the Hy & Sadie Sussman Fund for Eldercare & Aging in Place, CARES (the Federation department focused on the needs of older adults) runs a professional development day for the staff of its 11 constituent partner agencies/departments that work with older adults. It is always a highlight on the CARES calendar—a day of learning and networking.

Last month, participants gathered to discuss the topic of Ethical Dilemmas in Working With Older Adults with guest speaker Stephen Sidorsky, LCSW, continuing education instructor at Rutgers School of Social Work.

This year, for the first time, CARES used this program as an opportunity to honor and celebrate eight devoted professionals with CARES Awards for Professional Excellence. Each of these individuals was nominated by their agency for displaying the following qualities:

Delivers services of the highest caliber

Views each older adult as an individual with unique abilities and needs

Treats older adults with respect and without condescension

Acts promptly and responsively to clients’ and colleagues’ needs and requests

Works collaboratively and, when needed, seeks resources from other agencies

Continues to learn and improve/stays aware of current best practices

Demonstrates compassion and commitment

Is someone from whom each of us would want to receive services.