Tabitha Celebrates Another Year of Commitment to Care

Nebraska nonprofit Tabitha gathered team and board members—along with friends and family—to spotlight another year of senior care success at the annual TEAMember Celebration event.

This year’s celebration theme, “Deep Blue ‘C’,” was inspired by Tabitha’s strong culture and prominent Core Values: Care, Connect, Cultivate, Commitment, Customer Centric, Courage, Collaborate, and appropriately, Celebrate.

Henry Ueda, Delivery & Repair Driver, was named “TEAMember of the Year.” Ueda has been a dedicated member of Tabitha’s maintenance team for nearly nine years. His daughter, Tellysha Metes, also works for Tabitha as an IT Help Desk Technician.

“Henry is always helpful, friendly and has a positive outlook,” said Joe Hakenkamp, Administrator, Tabitha Living Community Services. “When a job needs done, he finds a way, and always goes above and beyond. We are fortunate he chose a career at Tabitha.”

The “Leader of the Year” honor was given to Janelle Prather, RN and Hospice Patient Care Coordinator who serves the York and Crete areas. Prather joined Tabitha in 2013 and has delivered customer-centric service to clients and families ever since. She received an astounding total of nine nominations from her fellow team members.

“Janelle sets an example for what caring for and about seniors looks like,” said Karen Cheesman, Administrator, Tabitha Hospice. “Her kindhearted compassion doesn’t end at the clients and families she supports—she equally dedicates a deep thoughtfulness to everyone she works alongside. While hospice can be emotionally challenging, Janelle ensures each individual on her team receives the support they need to provide the top-quality care that Tabitha is renowned for. We’re honored to have Janelle as a part of our team.”

In addition to Ueda and Prather, 60 honorees were recognized for their milestone anniversary accomplishments, ranging from five years to four decades of service at Tabitha. 145 team members were celebrated for receiving “Hearts of Gold” awards, Tabitha’s employee recognition program that is driven by grateful clients and families sharing their exceptional experiences at Tabitha.

“At the center of Tabitha’s PURPOSE—empowering people to live joyfully, age gratefully—has always been devoted team members,” said Brian P. Shanks, Tabitha President & CEO. “They are the reason we thrive and are able to serve as the state’s leading senior care provider. Tabitha’s full continuum of quality care—from short-stay rehabilitation to residential long-term skilled care and everything in between—is made possible by team members’ dedication and commitment.”