Insights
the blog of Porter Hills
Porter Hills Congratulates Our LeadingAge Michigan Award Winners

Seven individuals associated with Porter Hills, are being recognized for contributions to their communities and the field of aging services. The seven have been singled out from their peers across the state to receive 2017 LeadingAge Michigan awards. The awards were presented at a gala event in Kalamazoo on May 23.
Caring Spirit Award
Shirley Evans, a Care Partner at Meadowlark Retirement Village, is the recipient of the 2017 Caring Spirit Award, which recognizes front-line staff and direct care employees who have made a significant impact on the lives of older adults. A 26-year veteran of Meadowlark who has assumed a variety of roles during her tenure, Evans has provided outstanding care and compassion to generations of families.
Rich Kafulani, an employee of Marywood Health Center, a partnership of the Dominican Sisters ~ Grand Rapids and Porter Hills, is the runner-up for this award, earning the 2017 Certificate of Merit.
Group Volunteer Award
Marywood Health Center’s Pastoral Care Team—which includes Sister Kateri Schrems, Sister Jean Reimer, Sister Ann Hehl, Sister Cecilia Faber and Sister Diane Dehn—is being honored with the Group Volunteer Award for the “extraordinary service” it delivers to seniors.
The Pastoral Care Team provides spiritual care/companioning for patients and residents during their stay. The Sisters are also a source of support for family members struggling with loved ones’ illnesses.
“We are tremendously proud of all the honorees,” says Nicole Maag, Porter Hills Vice President of Residential Services. “They are shining examples of the dedication and compassion that enables us to carry out our mission to serve seniors with grace.”
About Porter Hills
Porter Hills has been serving West Michigan seniors and their families for 40+ years, offering a continuum of care that ranges from in-home assistance to community living. The non-profit organization operates ten communities throughout the area, including Meadowlark Retirement Village in Sparta. Newly renovated to support an innovative Household model of care, Meadowlark encompasses independent living, assisted living, and memory care suites.
To learn more about Meadowlark Retirement Village, please call 616-887-8891.
About Marywood Health Corporation
A partnership of the Dominican Sisters ~ Grand Rapids and Porter Hills, Marywood Health Corporation offers high quality rehabilitation services at Marywood Health Center and a modern assisted living community at Aquinata Hall on the grounds of the historic Marywood Campus in Grand Rapids.