Four Village Shalom employees received the top awards given out annually at the organization's staff holiday party in December.
“We are honored to have support of the Helzberg, Block and Wolff families that enable Village Shalom to recognize and reward individuals that demonstrate unmatched talent and commitment to providing support to the residents and the entire community,” Village Shalom CFO Mark Campbell said.
The Employee and Rookie of the Year awards are made possible through the Charles M. Helzberg Recognition Fund. Helzberg established the fund in 2000 to recognize exemplary Village Shalom staff members by honoring 12 Employees and Rookies of the Month throughout the year, serving as the nomination pool for the year-end honors.
“You all make such a big difference,” Charley Helzberg said to the employees. “The impact that you have on residents’ lives and their families is phenomenal.”
“Village Shalom is so fortunate to have team members so committed to resident care, and we are proud to honor their passion and tenure at making a difference each day,” Campbell said.
As someone deeply connected to the business world, Helzberg is confident in his long-lasting relationship with Village Shalom.
“There’s no question this institution has a culture that is unique and better than others around,” Helzberg said. “I have been a businessman all my life and made a lot of investments. This is the best investment I’ve ever made.”
Simon Abrahms, president of Village Shalom, said, "I want to express my deepest appreciation to the generous donors who make it possible to recognize outstanding individuals through these awards. Their support plays a vital role in boosting morale and strengthening work ethic across our team. By celebrating the hard work and dedication of these team members, the awards inspire everyone to continue striving for excellence. It’s a powerful reminder of the impact we can all have, and we are truly grateful for the donors' continued commitment to honoring the Village Shalom team."
Employee of the Year – Allison Bolin
Independent living residents at Village Shalom have their own concierge, Allison Bolin, who can be found helping residents with questions, setting up events in the theater or dining room and being a friendly face in the halls who is known to joke around with the residents.
“Allison plays an instrumental role in the organization as a whole. Her commitment to the residents of Village Shalom goes well beyond her responsibilities as the independent living concierge,” said Jamie Paredes, chief operating officer. “Allison brings with her a pleasantly sarcastic wit that improves the morale of those living and working with her. We are so fortunate she chooses to utilize her talents here.”
Bolin received a check for $5,000.
Rookie of the Year – Justin Cudnik
Major donor Charley Helzberg and Village Shalom Rookie of the Year Justin Cudnik.
Ensuring proper nutrition for approximately 130 residents at Village Shalom in skilled nursing, long-term care, memory care and assisted living, Nutrition Care Manager Justin Cudnik has made significant changes since joining Village Shalom in February 2024.
Megan Sova, the general manager over Village Shalom’s dining services said, “It has been an absolute delight to watch Justin grow in his role, and I can think of no one more deserving of the Rookie of the Year award. His dedication, enthusiasm and commitment to excellence have truly set him apart. He has quickly become a vital part of our team, and his contributions have made a lasting impact. We’re lucky to have him, and I’m thrilled to see his hard work recognized."
Cudnik received a check for $1,500.
Allen and Gloria Block ‘Champion of Culture Change’ – Monica Cook
This award recognizes and rewards an outstanding employee who demonstrates a dedication to the concept of “culture change.” In the senior-living environment, this term refers to improving the quality of life by creating a home-like environment, where the voices of elders and those working with them are considered and respected.
Monica Cook, facilities technician at Village Shalom, received the award because of her warmth and ability to connect to residents.
“Part of the reason that she took this job is because it appealed to her emotions as she has a heart for our population, and especially our residents,” said Tim McFarland, director of facilities. “She often says that her cup is full, and a significant part of that is working with our residents.”
Cook tailors her approach to the residents, and her positive attitude is noticed among all of her co-workers.
“Monica is always the first person to volunteer for any assignment and always accepts the most difficult task with a great attitude,” McFarland said.
Cook received a check for $1,000.
Joseph and Eleanor Wolff ‘Excellence in Care Giving’ – Adam Alfaro
Candidates of this award actively “live the mission” of Village Shalom by consistently exhibiting kindness, patience, compassion, understanding and the ability to gain trust in all personal interactions with residents, families and staff. Adam Alfaro, an occupational therapist at Village Shalom, received the award.
“He has an unwavering dedication and incredible resilience in putting the needs of his patients before his own, often facing challenging situations with grace and compassion, making a profound positive impact on the lives of his patients,” said Dena Moss, director of rehab.
Alfaro received a check for $750.
