LeadingAge Michigan was pleased to honor Debra Boham from Silver Maples of Chelsea with the Caring Spirit Award at the 2024 Annual Awards Gala earlier this year.
Annually, LeadingAge Michigan honors individuals who embody excellence in leadership, care, and service innovation in the field of aging service. Award winners were nominated by their peers and selected by an esteemed group of committee members among many nominations across the state. This year’s gala took place at the Radisson Plaza Hotel in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Nearly 170 people gathered to celebrate the elite group of 21 award winners and recognize their collective achievements.
The Caring Spirit Award recognizes the achievements of front-line staff and direct care employees who, while working for the member organization, have significantly impacted the lives of older adults.
Debra Boham, a former Speech Language Pathologist and Kindergarten teacher, found her passion for helping others alive and well at Silver Maples of Chelsea, where she joined as a Personal Assistant in 2020. In addition to providing resident care, Deb assists with transportation to medical appointments, grocery delivery, and household chores, leading by example and lending a hand wherever needed.
Deb’s dedication to resident quality of life shines through her innovative solutions, like creating a personalized communication binder for a stroke survivor with limited speech. This thoughtful approach enhances communication with caregivers and loved ones, demonstrating Deb’s commitment to individualized care. A family member shared, “Deb keeps us apprised of not only how mother is doing, but also if there’s anything she needs. It is these extra efforts that contribute to my mother’s quality of life and helps us as family feel confident about the care she is receiving.”
Known for her cheerful demeanor, attention to detail and enthusiasm to enhance care outcomes; Deb fosters a welcoming atmosphere at Silver Maples. Residents and coworkers alike praise her positivity, kindness, and ability to make everyone feel valued and comfortable.
LeadingAge Michigan extends a heartfelt congratulations to Debra Boham and Silver Maples of Chelsea for their continued excellence and mission-based care, as well as the quality work to better the lives of older adults in the state of Michigan! To learn more about the 2024 Member Awards Gala and other award honorees, visit the 2024 Awards Gala Program or visit LeadingAge MI’s YouTube Channel to view the awards video.
