Employee of the Month

Employee of the Month, initiated by the Staff Appreciation Committee, is a way to recognize and award nominated staff members for the hard work and dedication they provide every day. Each employee of the month receives a private parking spot at every prime location at ACHIEVE, a gift basket including many ACHIEVE logo items, additional paid time off, and recognition throughout the agency for the month!

April 2020

Melissa Santiago

Day Habilitation Trainer

Chenango

When we’re in a pinch, there is one staff who we know will be willing to step up and help – Melissa Santiago. Melissa joined the ACHIEVE family in 2019, and has been an absolute asset to the Chenango Day Habilitation Program along with Residential. She has headed many clubs and promoted inclusion and volunteerism within the Day Habilitation Program.

Melissa has an amazing rapport with the individuals, not just at Day Hab in Chenango, but in all of the houses. When a message goes out that coverage is needed, she is the first person to volunteer. Melissa is currently working at our Sterry Drive House, and she hast taken much pride in planning recreational activities to keep the residents engaged during this difficult time.

Melissa is such a sweet person, and you can tell that she truly cares about each and every one of the individuals served. She does an exceptional job every day, and we are proud to call her our coworker. She truly is an asset to ACHIEVE.

Past Employees of the Month

2020

2019

December 2019

Matthew Blazey

September 2019

Brittinee Quillan

June 2019

Louise Schabloski

March 2019

Sandy Mock

November 2019

Shawnta Smith

August 2019

Veronica Hernandez

May 2019

Tammie Kwiatkowski

February 2019

Lynelle Davis

October 2019

Belle Burchill

July 2019

Tracy Eichler

April 2019

Charla Crandall

January 2019

Jean Curry

2018

December 2018

Jeffrey Squires

November 2018

Samantha Griffiths

October 2018

Faith Williams

January 2020

Dimitrios Derventzis

Purchasing Agent

Broome

You can count yourself lucky if you have the pleasure of getting to work with our amazing Purchasing Agent, Dimitrios!

Di is one of the friendliest staff members I’ve met while working at ACHIEVE. I didn’t grasp at first just how much goes into being a Purchasing Agent for ACHIEVE. With around 30 locations over three counties, all needing a wide variety of items at the best price ever, Di is most certainly a busy guy.

Although he is busy, he is still willing to take the time out of his day to help you, and most importantly, make you laugh. If something is needed, whether it be supplies, a helping hand, answering a question or a smile he is right there. His wonderful personality and can do attitude is a constant. He is very “customer service” oriented and will bend over backwards to make sure you receive what you need. His immediate response, along with a smile or a joke, to any request is greatly appreciated!

Even if he doesn’t outwardly admit to it, he truly enjoys making others happy. Whether it be through his jokes, bringing in his authentic Greek cuisine for others to try, to even telling a unique story form his past, you’ll want to spend hours with this man. We all rely on Di, and can often take him for granted. Di is also known to come in early, stay late, and even come in on once scheduled PTO days, just because he loves the organization. Di is very deserving to be recognized for all that he does as ACHIEVE’s Purchasing Agent.

February 2020

Amber Kerr

Registered Nurse

Chenango

Amber is a compassionate and dedicated member of our organization. She is a strong advocate for the individuals we serve, and provides excellent care to these individuals.

She has positive relationships with staff and is always willing to provide support where needed. Recently, one of the individuals Amber works with was diagnosed with cancer. Part of his treatment required that a “g-tube” be placed to assist with nutrition during the time that he was receiving chemo and radiation.

Our typical practice for a situation such as this would have been to immediately find temporary placement in a nursing home, as the only staff at the agency who are trained to provide g-tube feedings are the nurses and LPNs. Amber strongly advocated that we keep this individual in his home, recognizing that it would be in his best interest to remain in his familiar environment for as long as possible. Throughout his treatment time, Amber has consistently been providing tube feedings for this individual up to 5 times a day 6 days a week. While this has been an exhausting and draining process, Amber continues to have a positive attitude and willing disposition.

I believe that this speaks strongly to Amber’s compassionate character. We are so lucky to have her as part of the team!

March 2020

Loretta Kinner

Program Manager

Broome

There are many reasons Loretta is deserving of this recognition. For one, she always goes above and beyond, not only for the, but also for those that work under her. Loretta never asks anyone to do anything that she herself wouldn’t do. She’s the first one to help out and work alongside you, leaving her own work to the wayside.

Loretta makes time for you no matter what, whether it’s for personal reasons or be it work related. She doesn’t pass judgment and ensures that you feel supported. Loretta demonstrates great commitment not only to ACHIEVE but to the individuals. She’s a positive role model and very rarely gets discouraged. Loretta has handled very many tough situations at the IRA’s and works well with the individuals involved along with their families to get things remedied accordingly.

Often times, Loretta will call the IRA or stop in to check on everyone and make sure that things are okay and not even be working at that time. Loretta is a vast of knowledge and is always willing to teach and train new things. I personally have learned so much from her and am truly thankful and appreciative.

During the month of January, Helen street went through a rough time with losing a dear sweet friend. Loretta was our rock through it all. From telling the house that their dear friend was very ill and to keep her in their prayers, taking the lead and planning the funeral, and checking in on every single staff member to ensure they were okay, Loretta was there.

Her heart is in her work and with each individual we care for. I can say Loretta isn’t in this job just for a paycheck, but she’s in it for the caring compassion she shows to each and every one she touches. Loretta is one in a million and a hard one to every replace.

Biography

Loretta is very thankful for this recognition, as she knows there are many awesome employees at ACHIEVE who are deserving of the recognition too.

Loretta has been with Achieve for almost 10 years starting as Residence Aide, and has been in her current role as a Program Manager for just over 5 years. Loretta has 3 children and 3 grandchildren who all keep her very busy outside of work.

She enjoys coming to work everyday and being greeted by the individual’s smiles. The individuals are her number one priority and she has, and continues to try her best to keep their wishes/dreams in mind and fulfilled. Loretta loves seeing the accomplishments each of them make and strive for; and also seeing them overcome many obstacles. She would not be able to do her job without the support of all of her co-workers and the support from management/administration personnel.

Loretta has many memories at ACHIEVE and each one she holds dear to her heart.

December 2019

Matthew Blazey

Senior Division Manager

Broome

No matter how much Matt has on his plate, he remains upbeat and professional. He will make time to talk with you both about work and personal concerns. During our recent staffing crisis, Matt took the lead and spent countless hours conducting interviews and necessary paperwork to get qualified applicants in the door, which in turn took a great deal of pressure off the Program Mangers and tremendously helped with scheduling both in residential and Day Hab. Matt is always willing to help out when needed, either to work out of an IRA or simply to stop by and check on staff. Matt goes above and beyond to make that personal connection with staff.

Our Program Managers often state that they would not be the manager they today if they had not been under his leadership. Matt is beyond knowledgeable of any matters pertaining to residential or Day Hab. Matt is deserving of this award because of the caring, compassionate, hard-working man that just makes him who he is as a person.

September 2019

Brittinee Quillan

Assistant Residence Manager

Chenango

Brittinee Quillan is not only dedicated and hardworking, but regardless of what she has going on in her personal life, she strives to keep the residents she serves at the top of her priority list. She remains flexible, constantly picking up extra shifts and covering for call outs, and does so with a smile on her face. She is eager to learn and grow within the agency, consistently asking to take on more responsibility. She uses her creativity and awesome rapport with the individuals to ensure that they live a more meaningful life. Brittinee is one of the key components to the Fowlston team and the residents we serve. She isn’t just an employee of the month, she’s a year round rock star! ACHIEVE is very lucky to have her, as her compassion, empathy and dedication to the individuals have helped to make this residence a home for some that never knew what having family could feel like. Because of Brittinee’s hand to hold, someone went to the dentist without restraints and a third staff. Because of Brittinee’s encouragement, someone learned to tie their shoes. The love and dedication she shows the individual’s is more than reciprocated. The Fowlston team is what it is, because it’s made up of phenomenal staff like Brittinee. There aren’t enough words to express our appreciation for Brittinee.

June 2019

Louise Schabloski

Human Resources Generalist

Broome

Louise is an absolute asset to the agency. She works tirelessly behind the scenes and has done so for over 24 years. She is always cheerful, friendly, and ready to help no matter how busy she is. Louise is a wealth of knowledge and is willing to share her expertise with anyone who needs assistance. Even if there is something that she herself isn’t sure of, she always tells staff that they will “figure it out together”. Her friendly nature and welcoming smile helps to ease the confusion of complex issues employees come to her with. Louise is very personable and approachable. She stands ready to answer and help with any concerns or questions. Staff are always very comfortable working with her, no matter what the reason. Louise’s dedication to the agency and its employees exemplify why she is deserving of Employee of the Month.

Biography

Louise has been with the agency for almost 25 years. She enjoys coming to work every day to work with her amazing co-workers. Louise has three grandchildren, one being in Boston, and often spends her free time traveling to visit him. In her spare time, Louise enjoys baking, and although she says she isn’t great at it, she still has a lot of fun. One of Louise’s best memories of working at ACHIEVE was staying late with her coworkers to paint and decorate new offices that were built so that they were more “homey”.

March 2019

Sandy Mock

Director of Information Systems

Broome

Sandy Mock has worked for the agency for over 27 years and was recently promoted to the Director of Information Systems. She is one of the resources that is invisible until you need her help with an IT issue. She is a role model for all employees regarding commitment, work ethics, and an embodiment of ethical standards. Sandy is a team player and always assists anyone that asks and she always resolves any issues in a timely manner. Sandy also takes the time to teach staff throughout the agency how to utilize systems as well as easier ways to accomplish things within the IT world.

November 2019

Shawnta Smith

Day Habilitation Specialist

Broome

Shawnta Smith, 15-year ACHIEVE veteran, is one of the most passionate, empathetic, and dedicated employees. You’ll never see Shawnta without a smile on her face – despite how difficult the day may be. You can tell that our individuals are her life, just by speaking to her for a few minutes. From the way she speaks with them, listens to them, and truly loves them, her genuine spirit is evident. Shawnta is an avid supporter of ACHIEVE and inclusion for those we serve. Shawnta has been instrumental in On the Pond’s success. She has made connections with the BCC Daycare, Joblon Studios, Irish Dancers, Musicians, Theater Performers, Animal Shelters, and so much more to give meaningful experiences for our individuals but also to make long-lasting connections with ACHIEVE and the community.

In addition to Shawnta’s love for her individuals, she is a huge supporter of ACHIEVE. Day after day, Shawnta is ranked in the top five (usually number 1) “Facebook Top Fans” for our ACHIEVE page. She is continuously liking, commenting, and sharing our material to ensure it gets extra coverage. In addition, she is continuously sending stories and photos that can be shared to others. Shawnta is a backbone to the organization, and deserves to be recognized for her continued support.

August 2019

Veronica Hernandez

Program Manager

Broome

Veronica’s drive to want better for the individuals served shows through the work she does. She goes above and beyond to ensure her individuals wants and needs are met. Veronica recently received a Program Manager position in the Residential Program, and her hard work and dedication to the company shines through her personality. Veronica is what staff think of when they need a great example of how a caring Residential Aide should be. Her paperwork is pristine, her attitude is always positive, and is an amazing team worker.

Biography

Veronica started off as a Residential Aide in Tioga County. She loved going out to dinner with those that she served. She said that it’s nice that we get to have so much fun and be around so many great people. Veronica would always get positive notes from her Program Manager, Amantha Powell. This constant encouragement sparked Veronica’s interest in becoming a manager herself one day. After transitioning to a house in Broome, Program Manager Sarah Miller and Division Manager Karl Jantz encouraged Veronica to apply for a Program Manager position, as they both saw something in her that she did not see in herself. With their support, she is now serving as a Program Manager at a house in Broome. She is thankful for the support she now has from her direct supervisor, Matthew Blazey, Senior Division Manager.

Outside of work, Veronica loves spending time with her family, especially her daughter Aubrey, as she has made life a little bit sweeter. Veronica prays that one day Aubrey will find a job that fulfills her happiness like ACHIEVE has done for herself.

May 2019

Tammie Kwiatkowski

Registered Nurse

Broome

Tammie Kwiatkowski has been working with the agency for 20 years. Tammie is known for almost heroic efforts in advocating for individuals facing serious medical concerns. Tammie is a long-time employee who has been kind, caring, compassionate to hundreds of individuals over her years at ACHIEVE. Recently, an individual was hospitalized after a fall and Tammy continually advocated for the individual, reminding hospital staff of the individual’s unique needs and circumstances and tirelessly checking to make sure that the individuals medication needs were met. Tammie provided a calm presence for the individual who is prone to anxiety and documented her efforts to ensure that she was treated with dignity and respect.

Tammie is also a great resource for staff, answering all kinds of questions about the individuals’ medical issues as well as questions about health issues staff might be having. She completes complex reviews of medical records and uses that skill to identify issues of concern or areas for improvement.

Biography

Tammie’s favorite part of her job is advocating for the individuals ACHIEVE serves, as she loves being able to make someone’s life just a little bit better. One of Tammie’s best memories is after she gave birth to her son, she came to Cutler Pond to visit participants, and some individuals were so excited because they were able to hold her son. She loves the interactions she had with the individuals that would visit. From coming to lay down for a few minutes, to asking about her children, and always being able to make her smile. Tammie says that when you go with an individual for a procedure and offer assurance and support that they will be just fine, she admires how brave they become. There is no specific job duty that sticks out as Tammie’s favorite, but the feeling of being part of a larger extended family by just completing normal job duties is amazing to her.

When Tammie isn’t working, her favorite hobby is reading, which she does every day. She also loves boogie boarding in the ocean, attending her children’s sporting and school functions, going tot he movies, and painting – even though she never has enough time.

February 2019

Lynelle Davis

Program Manager

Chenango

Lynelle has been employed with ACHIEVE for over 15 years and is now a Program Manager in Chenango County. Lynelle can always be seen with a smile on her face. She is the first to step up and fill in so that other Managers and staff can have time off. She is extremely helpful to other staff, she goes above and beyond to help with training and/or other events, answering questions, etc. She also helps to build morale when staff are feeling overwhelmed. She’s a great person to work with and for. Lynelle has many contacts that are helpful in making integration of the individuals we serve easier within the community. Lynelle is very respected by both the individuals we serve and the staff that serve under her.

October 2019

Belle Burchill

Day Habilitation Trainer

Chenango

Above and beyond – that is best way to describe Belle Burchill. She is always the first staff to volunteer when an extra task is asked for, and is the first one to step forward to help any individual or coworker. Belle brings an uplifting and fun vibe to the Chenango Day Habilitation. She is very creative and keeps our individuals motivated throughout the day. Most importantly, Belle always has the individual’s best interests at heart. She always ensures that they are content and their needs are met. No matter how crazy her day may be, she makes sure to make time for each and every individual we serve. The individuals gravitate toward her and enjoy spending time in whatever room she is in. Belle is always looking for community events and volunteer opportunities where she can integrate the individuals with many non-disabled members of the community of all ages. Belle is the prime example of what ACHIEVE looks for in an employee – passion, drive, dedication, and most importantly, love.

July 2019

Tracy Eichler

Operations and Habilitation Specialist

Chenango

Tracy Eicher has been with ACHIEVE for 19 years. She is an outstanding Team Player and is willing to step up or step out wherever needed. Tracy is passionate, committed and dedicated to our individuals, their families and her coworkers. Tracy serves as the go between CWS OPS and CWS Service Delivery. Without her and her efforts of bridging those two worlds CWS would not be positioned as well as it is. She never shies away from added responsibility; in fact, she yearns for it. Tracy is proud of her role and the agency in whole. Tracy is well respected by our individuals and their folks at home. Tracy is visible throughout the agency and always approachable by all. Every day she shows that she is more than willing to support, not only our individuals, but the entire operation. Tracy has a gift to find a teachable moment in every situation. Tracy is a true advocate to the population she serves.

Tracy is a friend to all, someone you can talk too. She will bend over backwards to correct an error and put a protocol in place to see that it doesn’t happen again. ACHIEVE/CWS is very fortunate to have Tracy as an employee, she proves to be an asset to our agency every day.

Biography

Tracy loves working with the individuals served at Chenango CWS. Tracy has only called in once for work in the last 18 and 1/2 years, as her coworkers make each and every day enjoyable. When Tracy isn't at work, she enjoys crafting at home and spending time with her husband of thirty years.

April 2019

Charla Crandall

Behavior Specialist

Broome

Charla has worked for the agency for just over a year as a Behavior Specialist and was nominated by multiple of her peers to be the Employee of the Month for April 2019! Charla is always willing to help out co-workers and individuals at any time. Charla constantly focuses on detail to ensure that her paperwork is complete and accurate. On top of that Charla is a warm and cheerful person that tries to lift the spirits of all of those around her. Charla is able to resolve conflicts and handle other difficult situations with remarkable patience and full support for the people served and supporting staff.

Biography

Charla’s favorite part of her job is working alongside staff and working directly with individuals – seeing the accomplishments they make and the challenges that they overcome. Whether it be increasing their communication, or identifying their feelings – they never cease to amaze her. When Charla isn’t busy at work, you will often times find her baking – one of her most favorite hobbies!

January 2019

Jean Curry

Residence Aide

Broome

Jean Curry has committed her service to ACHIEVE for more than 17 loyal years. Jean has worked at various levels in the Residential Department. She is a veteran staff who is always willing to pass her unrivaled amount of wisdom on to all; but is very open and quick to learn new policies and procedures. She is very beloved by all staff and individuals. The folks we serve light up when she enters a room. Her quality of work, love for what she does, and professionalism surpasses all. Jean strongly believes in ACHEVE’s mission and carries it with pride through all the work she does. Jean put in 100% each and every day. She takes all complaints and concerns of individuals seriously and comes up with out of the box solutions. I had the pleasure to work with Jean for over a year and I would not be where I am today had I not had the chance to work with such a bright and wonderful person. Although I had been her supervisor, she was truly my mentor. She is a prime example of what all of our staff should strive to be.

Biography

Jean has worked for the agency for almost 18 years. When Jean leaves her shift, she feels good knowing that everyone is well and safe.

Jean loves her job and says that it is an honor to be recognized as Employee of the Month. She thanks ACHIEVE for all the training she has received, and wants to give credit to her co-staff for the time spend training her so well. Along with the training she has received, she lives and governs her life by the Golden Rule of doing unto others as you would want them to do unto you.

Jean knows that if everyone does the best job, they can and will continue to ACHIEVE. Jean says “our name ACHIEVE, is a constant reminder that we are trying to do our very best”.

December 2018

Jeffrey Squires

Janitor Level III

Chenango

Jeff is a Janitor Level III and works in Chenango County. Jeff has been with the agency for nearly 7 and a half years and he was nominated by many of the staff in Chenango County. Jeff goes out of his way to ensure that the Day Hab facility is clean for the staff and individuals. He is friendly and always interacts with the individuals, including them in his job duties when possible. He is always smiling and willing to go above and beyond to assist anyone that asks.

November 2018

Samantha Griffiths

Pathways to Employment Coordinator

Broome

Samantha has worked for the agency for over 15 years and has filled a variety of roles throughout the agency; she is currently the Pathway to Employment Coordinator. Samantha has streamlined the Pathway to Employment program and utilizes her organizational skills to ensure that the service is provided effectively and meaningfully to the individuals. Samantha is a strong leader and mentor to her staff and always puts the needs of others before herself.

Biography

Sam's favorite part of her job is the individuals that they work with, seeing their progress over the years, and her co-workers. She has been with ACHIEVE for 15 years - beginning in residential for 5 years, was an MSC for 4 years, and then came to Vocational Services in 2012 where she really found her niche. She started as the Coordinator for Pathway to Employment in January 2018. She has always said that the best part about working at ACHIEVE is that if you reflect on your day, you will always be able to think of one thing that happened with the individuals that made you smile every single day. When she is not at work, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Andy, her 2 year old son, Elijah, and preparing for the arrival of her daughter in January 2019!

October 2018

Faith Williams

Day Habilitation Specialist

Chenango

Faith goes above and beyond for the individuals receiving services as well as for the Direct Support Professional staff. Her enthusiasm inspires the staff and she is a consistently finding ways to improve the services that are provided. Faith always goes above and beyond to make sure the clients are engaging in activities of their choice and always has their best interest in mind. Most individuals ask for Faith when they are having difficulty as they feel comfortable expressing their needs with her. Faith goes above and beyond and if she does not know the answer to a question she will find it! Faith ensures all her work is done on time and done correctly. If she is having a bad day you will never know it, she keeps a smile on her face and a positive attitude while embracing change with open arms. Numerous staff have voiced the need to recognize her for all of her efforts within the Day Habilitation Department and how she always puts the individuals and other staff above herself.

Biography

Faith has worked in this field for 25 years in various capacities, the last 11 years being with Chenango ARC, now ACHIEVE. She has seen many changes throughout the years but the most exciting changes are the ones since ACHIEVE came into the picture. The individuals have always been her number one priority and she has tried her best to keep their wishes and interests in mind. She loves seeing them happy and enjoys seeing how excited they are whenever they have accomplished something they have struggled with. She has met and worked with some wonderful and challenging individuals and has enjoyed each and every one. Faith has so many awesome memories that it’s hard to choose just one! Each of the individuals hold a special place in her heart. Faith's hobbies outside of work include camping, spending time with her grandchildren, needlework, and reading. Faith would like to thank ACHIEVE for the vote of confidence - and said she wouldn't be able to do her job without the support of her co-workers and management personnel!

Employee of the Month

April 2020

Melissa Santiago

Day Habilitation Trainer

Past Employees of the Month

2020

2019

2018

January 2020

Dimitrios Derventzis

Purchasing Agent

February 2020

Amber Kerr

Registered Nurse

March 2020

Loretta Kinner

Program Manager

Biography

December 2019

Matthew Blazey

Senior Division Manager

September 2019

Brittinee Quillan

Assistant Residence Manager

June 2019

Louise Schabloski

Human Resources Generalist

Biography

March 2019

Sandy Mock

Director of Information Systems

November 2019

Shawnta Smith

Day Habilitation Specialist

August 2019

Veronica Hernandez

Program Manager

Biography

May 2019

Tammie Kwiatkowski

Registered Nurse

Biography

February 2019

Lynelle Davis

Program Manager

October 2019

Belle Burchill

Day Habilitation Trainer

July 2019

Tracy Eichler

Operations and Habilitation Specialist

Biography

April 2019

Charla Crandall

Behavior Specialist

Biography

January 2019

Jean Curry

Residence Aide

Biography

December 2018

Jeffrey Squires

Janitor Level III

November 2018

Samantha Griffiths

Pathways to Employment Coordinator

Biography

October 2018

Faith Williams

Day Habilitation Specialist

Biography

Coming Soon