FHCA Celebrates National Assisted Living Week, Honors Exceptional Caregivers

Tallahassee, Fla. – The Florida Health Care Association (FHCA) is proud to celebrate National Assisted Living Week from September 8 – 14, with this year’s theme being “Inspiring Generations.” FHCA will highlight caregivers who go above and beyond throughout the week on social media in recognition of the national observance—which begins each year on National Grandparents’ Day.

“This year’s National Assisted Living Week is especially meaningful as we celebrate alongside our partners at the Florida Assisted Living Association,” said FHCA CEO Emmett Reed. “Assisted living communities are more than just a place where residents live; they are places where caregivers, residents, family members, and communities share deep connections. This week, we want to honor the dedicated caregivers who are making a positive impact on the lives of their residents.”

Earlier this year, FHCA and Florida Assisted Living Association (FALA) announced the “Caring Together” partnership between the two statewide organizations to raise awareness about the important role of both skilled nursing and assisted living providers in the continuum of long-term care for Florida seniors and their families.

While assisted living communities across Florida and the nation celebrate National Assisted Living Week with special activities and events, FHCA will be recognizing exceptional team members, including Melissa Wojewnik, who became a caregiver right out of high school and realized the profound impact she could make on the lives of others. As the Executive Director of Cypress Palms assisted living facility in Largo, Wojewnik enjoys forging meaningful relationships with her residents and playing a direct role in enhancing their well-being.

“The fulfillment I experience from positively impacting their lives is truly unmatched,” said Wojewnik.

Lisa Morgan is a Resident Caregiver Preceptor at Arden Courts of Delray Beach assisted living facility and has worked in long-term care for more than 40 years. 

“I prioritize making residents feel safe, understood, and respected and always remember that we work in their home, they do not live where we work,” said Morgan. 

Vanessa Clayton is a Certified Nursing Assistant at The Tradition of the Palm Beaches in West Palm Beach. Clayton says compassion, patience, adaptability, attention to detail, and teamwork are all key to providing quality care for her residents. 

“I try to use a holistic approach to enhance the overall well-being and quality of life of our residents. The connections you form and the impact you make on the lives of the residents are truly profound,” said Clayton. 

Maibel Fundora is the Administration Coordinator at The Point of North Gables in Miami, where she helps to manage the residents’ daily care needs. Fundora began as a receptionist but after encouragement from her supervisor, she pursued additional certifications which helped her advance her career. 

“I enjoy forming relationships with the residents, providing care and support so they can live with dignity,” said Fundora. “This is an incredibly rewarding career where you can make a real difference.”

Florida is home to 700 nursing centers that care for over 70,000 frail elders, and over 106,000 seniors reside in the state’s more than 3,000 assisted living facilities. 

By 2030, the U.S. Census Bureau estimates that over 32% of Florida's population will be 60 years of age and older. As more individuals make the decision to call Florida home, FHCA makes it a priority to identify solutions that help its members invest in caregivers who play a vital role in ensuring residents are met with the gold standard of care.  

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 8, 2024

PRESS CONTACT:
Kristen Knapp, APR
850-510-4389 or kknapp@fhca.org