Judy Wolner Receives LeadingAge Minnesota’s 2024 Caregiver of the Year Award

Posted on February 8, 2024 by Libbie Chapuran

LeadingAge Minnesota proudly recognizes Judy Wolner, a caregiver at Vista Prairie Goldfinch Estates, as the recipient of the Caregiver of the Year award.

Judy's outstanding dedication and compassionate care as the Community Care Coordinator at Vista Prairie Goldfinch Estates in Fairmont have left an indelible mark on the lives of memory care residents and their families.

The Caregiver of the Year Award, bestowed by LeadingAge Minnesota, celebrates individuals in older adult services who demonstrate exceptional commitment to older adults and enhance the quality of life of those under their care. Judy's selection for this esteemed award from a pool of over 60,000 professional caregivers within LeadingAge Minnesota's membership underscores her remarkable contributions to the field.

About Judy

Judy's approach to caregiving sets her apart, characterized by authenticity, dependability, and honesty. Her empathetic demeanor not only dispels the stigma of memory care but also brings joy to residents and their family members alike.

Judy's remarkable journey began in her home country of Tanzania. After settling in Fairmont, Minnesota, she joined Goldfinch Estates where her dedication to caregiving flourished.

To witness Ms. Wolner's inspiring journey firsthand, you can watch the 2024 Caregiver of the Year video here: https://youtu.be/pvwr7a2g9F8

District Caregivers of the Year

LeadingAge Minnesota proudly acknowledges a cohort of outstanding caregivers who have been recognized as Caregivers of the Year across various districts. Among them are:

• Robert Honstrom from Lifecare Roseau Manor, District A
• Jacob Ojala from Minnesota Veterans Home Silver Bay, District B
• Samuel Schultz from Knute Nelson, District C
• Jeana Brown from Good Shepherd Community, District D
• Peggy Sik from Sanford Canby Sylvan Court, District E
• Lora Walker from Fairview Care Center, District F
• Philippe Blanc from Friendship Village of Bloomington, District G

These remarkable individuals, spanning different districts, epitomize the spirit of caregiving, going above and beyond to enrich the lives of older adults under their care.

Honored at Institute

These caregivers were celebrated and honored at the LeadingAge Minnesota Institute & Expo, where their contributions to the field of older adult services were lauded. Their stories serve as a beacon of inspiration for all caregivers, reminding us of the profound impact that compassion and dedication can have on the lives of older adults.