Wanda Donaldson

NASHVILLE-Celina Health and Rehabilitation Center (CHRC) was in the limelight here this month at the Tennessee Health Care Association’s (THCA) 2013 Convention & Trade Show as both a volunteer and an employee were honored with statewide awards.

Wanda Donaldson, a CHRC volunteer, was the recipient of the THCA’s 2013 Individual Volunteer of the Year Award, and CHRC dietary manager Renea Hatcher was honored as the 2013 Member of the Year by the Dietary Supervisors Association (DSA), a THCA affiliate organization.

“In the history of our facility, we have been nominated for state awards, but never had a winner.  So, it was amazing to have two winners in one year!” CHRC administrator Paula Boone said Monday.  “Both of these ladies exemplify the hard work, dedication, and devotion to our patients and facility that goes on here every day often without our community’s knowledge.

“I am glad that they both have finally been publicly recognized after all of these years, because they deserve it as do so many that work here.”

The award Donaldson received is given to an individual who exemplifies the spirit of nursing home volunteerism.  She has volunteered daily at CHRC for 29 years and assists with daily activities, visits with residents, and brings treats each week.

About 10 years ago, she also implemented a weekly Bible study and offers to do shopping for residents.

Renea Hatcher

Hatcher has been a dietary manager for five years and has improved residents’ dining experiences by implementing a fine-dining program and a make-your-own-dessert bar at CHRC.

She is DSA’s Nashville District president and is very active in association events, including district meetings, the Conference for Department Heads, and the annual Convention.

“Every day, caregivers and volunteers across the state work tirelessly to make sure that long-term care residents receive the highest quality of care possible,” said THCA Executive Director Jesse Samples. “It is our privilege to recognize those who excel in their profession and thank them for their contributions to their patients and colleagues.”

THCA is a nonprofit organization whose members include long-term care facilities located throughout the state. For more information about nursing homes, visit www.thca.org.