WHITE PLAINS, June 6 – At its Annual Meeting last night, Westchester Jewish Community Services (WJCS) recognized the distinguished achievements of four staff members – Janet Alpert, Marcia Johnson, Kari Phillips and Lenore Rosenbaum.
Ms. Alpert was presented with The Batkin Award, which recognizes excellence in working with people with developmental disabilities. As Director of Residential Support Services in the WJCS Community Residential Care Division, she oversees 14 group homes. During her tenure she has made many positive changes in the division all driven by her dedication to enhancing the lives of individuals with special needs. Ms. Alpert’s organizational skills and team approach as well as the care and understanding she shows toward her consumers, managers and co-workers make her an indispensable and standout leader.
Ms. Johnson, who has worked for WJCS Home Health Services for six years, was honored as the Home Health Aid of the Year. She is always willing to go the extra mile and provide service to patients that other aide staff see as difficult. Constantly with a smile, she can be counted on in even the most difficult of circumstances to get the job done, very often going above and beyond what is expected of her. She goes about her work quietly but the impact that she makes on client’s lives is tremendous.
Recognized as Employee of the Year, Ms. Phillips is Assistant Director of Outpatient Services for Developmental Disabilities. Her commitment to improving the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities is evident in every aspect of her work. She brings to the job a distinctive combination of passion, commitment and professionalism.
Ms. Phillips was instrumental in WJCS obtaining a grant from Autism Speaks to develop curricula to address healthy relationships and sexuality for individuals with autism spectrum disorders.
Ms. Rosenbaum received the Rohmer Award, recognizing excellence in outstanding professional accomplishments. She is Director of the WJCS Self-Help Clearinghouse including SIDS Education and Women-Helping-Women, a program for women seeking jobs which she created with funding from the Leir Charitable Foundations. Under her guidance, since 2009 eight workshops series led by professionals from various fields have been held at locations throughout the county bringing valuable information and skills including LinkedIN training to women from all walks of life who are looking for jobs.
