The 15th annual Margaret R. Spies awards were presented to members of the United Helpers direct care team. Honorees are nominated for the award by their co-workers with one recipient each year coming from RiverLedge, Maplewood and Mosaic. From left Maplewood home health aid Keith Davis, RiverLedge certified nurse aid Clifford Casselman, Spies and Mosaic direct service professional Patrick Flagg.

OGDENSBURG – The Society of the United Helpers gave out this year’s Margaret R. Spies Awards to three employees who embody the qualities looked for in direct care staff: dedication to the people they care for and a willingness to go above and beyond expectations.

This year’s awards went to Patrick Flagg, a Mosaic Direct Service Professional, RiverLedge Certified Nurse Aide Clifford Casselman and Maplewood Assisted Living Program Home Health Aid Keith Davis.

The Spies Award was created in 2000 when Ann Spies made a generous gift to the Society of the United Helpers that created an endowment in memory of her mother, Margaret R. Spies, former resident of RiverLedge Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center and longtime Hammond school teacher. Margaret Spies appreciated hard work and the ability to give from the heart.

Ms. Spies said, “My mother was a wonderful, wonderful person and very social. When she came here the staff recognized how delightful she was, and I was always very pleased with the care, concern and love that she received. I thought something ought to be done for the staff.”

Addressing the three award winners, Ms. Spies said, “You are truly, truly wonderful people. [My mother] would be very proud of the three of you, and I’m very proud.”

Mosaic program manager, Robin Glass and RN, Sheri Sharpe introduced Mr. Flagg, who’s been with United Helpers for nine years, and noted his compassion and personal attention he provides to all of the people he works with.

“He always advocates for our residents and their safety,” Ms. Glass said. “He is very person centered and brightens the day of our residents and his peers.”

On a humorous note, Ms. Glass said Mr. Flagg rarely calls into work.

“He told me he’s saving his sick time for when he gets old,” she said.

Maplewood Administrator Kimberly McFaddin introduced Mr. Davis, who’s been with United Helpers since 2008, noting he is “a true asset to our team.”

“Keith is well liked by the residents he serves and his peers. He rarely misses work, is flexible with his schedule and will often stay over or come in early as needed,” Ms. McFaddin said. “Keith strives every day to make a difference in the lives of the residents he serves and it is always done with a smile on his face.”

Ms. McFaddin also used words straight from the mouths of residents when describing her building’s honoree.

“He’s very friendly, kind, hardworking, funny, thoughtful, ‘a nice boy,’” she said, adding, “Their words, not mine.”

Adjectives and phrases used by his peers to describe Mr. Davis include, courteous, respectful, “always willing to lend a hand,” and “goes above and beyond in everything he does.”

Mr. Casselman, who’s been employed by United Helpers for six years, was introduced by RiverLedge Assistant Administrator Stacey Cannizzo.

“The residents always come first with Cliff,” she said. “He’s an awesome worker, loyal employee and he always goes above and beyond.”

Ms. Cannizzo noted that of the 22 nominated received from employees in her building 15 of them were for Mr. Casselman.

In addition to having the admiration and respect of his co-workers, Ms. Cannizzo said the Mr. Casselman is also well-like and respected by the building’s residents.

“All of the residents love and adore him,” she said before telling a story to relay just how dedicated he really is.

“He walks to work everyday in the rain, snow, and occasionally in the sun.”

Recipients of the Margret R. Spies Awards are nominated for the honor by their administrative team and their peers.