You can’t help feeling happy when Rene is around. Her warm smile and bubbling personality bring joy to everyone who knows her and works with her. She is caring and kind, a loyal friend who will always be there for you if you need her.  She is also an incredibly hard worker and a highly-valued employee.

When the COVID-19 pandemic started, the changes were sudden and dramatic.  Many jobs were lost, and many people were unsure about what might happen next.  Rene, who is supported by MVA in both our employment and residential programs, could have chosen to stay home and stay safe during the pandemic.  Instead, she chose to stay at her job, doing her part to help Brookdale residents through these uncertain times.

For over two years, Rene has been working at Brookdale Town Center, a retirement community in McMinnville.  She is a valuable member of the team at Brookdale, where she helps with food prep, stocking, dishwashing, and serving food to residents. Due to the pandemic, some of the residents at Brookdale haven’t had the opportunity to see their loved ones in person for quite a while. Imagine what a treat it is to see Rene’s smiling face each day, there to help in any way she can.

Rene is always more than willing to step up to the plate when something needs to be done. If a co-worker needs her help, she’s there to lend a hand. If there’s a shift that needs to be filled, Rene has no problem putting in extra hours to help out. She does this all with a smile on her face because she loves being able to help others.

Earlier this year, Rene had her annual review at work.  Shortly after, her voice full of excitement, she called her MVA Job Coach to report a great result.  Rene’s supervisor at Brookdale had nothing but positive things to say about her and how well she had been doing at work.  A few days later, Rene was given an “Everyday Hero” award at Brookdale.  This was a truly special day for Rene and a well-deserved award for all of her hard work.

When asked what she likes most about her job at Brookdale, Rene replied “the residents and my co-workers are my favorite part of working here”.  Rene’s hard work, courage, compassion for others, caring nature and fun-loving personality is so admirable. This is just one story about the difference that the right job with the right employer can make in the lives of so many people, even during a global pandemic.

Congratulations, Rene, you definitely are a hero to so many, each and every day!