Every year OPRA encourages all member agencies to submit nominations to recognize those who have worked hard to help support the people they serve. The awards come in ten categories. Echoing Hills is excited to announce three team members have received the awards this year! Enjoy excerpts from Heather’s nomination.
Behind the Scenes Award – Heather Woolum, HR Generalist
Heather is a wonderful ambassador for Echoing Hills, in assisting staff, management, and the individuals we serve. She is the kind of person who gives to give. She has, on countless occasions, taken time out of her busy schedule to meet with people one-on-one to help, mentor, and just listen. Heather makes people feel seen, heard, and valued. She shows servant leadership and inspires others to give back and pay it forward.
The goal is for the team to be heard and supported. What’s working and what isn’t. It’s simple but so valuable. A happy and fulfilled team delivers an optimal program for those we serve! This has aided in the realization that she has become a valuable resource to the Regional Director as well as a support system for the leadership team.
She is known as the “go-to” person for her region and receives calls that draw upon her experience for information and advice. Heather is helpful, caring, resourceful, and happy to offer service no matter the task. Additionally, under unfortunate circumstances, when COVID-19 impacted our Southwest Region, without a thought, Heather put on PPE and joined the front line team right on the floor. Given we were experiencing a labor shortage due to the virus, her first inclination was how I could help. She is a great teammate. Her team spirit, quick wit, and loyalty to Echoing Hills have endeared her quickly to her colleagues. Heather saw the team grow weary with fatigue and fear as the virus struck two of the homes. She took it upon herself to work with the Region’s Leadership, Corporate Leadership, and our Chaplin to arrange a time via Zoom to come together to support one another and to pray together.
She carries out the mission and has positively impacted our staff and individuals. She has made a significant contribution to Echoing Hills and projects a warm, cheerful attitude to our team and individuals. I have seen her resolve conflicts and handle difficult situations with patience and tact. She loves people, works hard, and always tries to lift the spirits of those around her. It isn’t uncommon for her to make cookies and surprise the team – because she knows it is a warm and fuzzy that brings them joy! Her skills, knowledge, willingness to help others, and dedication make her a great nominee for The Behind the Scenes Award.
