Goodwin Living Team Member Recognized as National Ceca Award Honoree
March 16, 2023
ALEXANDRIA, VA—Earlier this week, Goodwin Living, a not-for-profit, faith-based, senior living and health care services organization in the National Capital Region, announced that team member Mesfin Desta is an honoree for the annual National Ceca Awards, which are presented by the Ceca Foundation. Every year, honorees are selected from Ceca Foundation’s national network of health care partners. Desta is one of the four award recipients recognized as extraordinary caregivers.
“Mesfin exemplifies our mission to support, honor and uplift the lives of older adults,” said Rob Liebreich, president and CEO of Goodwin Living. “We are grateful to have caring, trusted caregivers like Mesfin on our team to support our residents and their family members. We are excited to see his hard work and dedication recognized by the Ceca Foundation.”
Desta is the environmental services team leader at Goodwin House Alexandria (GHA). Since 2003, Desta has been a trusted team member for residents and their family members. Desta has earned the nickname “Running Man” due to his characteristically quick response to residents’ calls. He is quick in helping residents with their groceries, adjusting meeting rooms or simply providing companionship and conversation. With his calm and caring demeanor, Desta has earned the trust of many residents and their loved ones, who often request him by name to assist during transitions between levels of living. When a resident that he was very close to was hospitalized for an extended period, Desta visited them in the hospital and offered his support.
“Mesfin is a true example of a hardworking and dedicated team member who makes a real difference in the lives of everyone he encounters,” said Goodwin House Alexandria Executive Director Barbara D’Agostino. “He is always willing to lend a helping hand and offer guidance to his fellow team members.”
Goodwin Living extends its congratulations and gratitude to Detsa for his exemplary caregiving. He received an engraved commemorative trophy and a cash award of $2,500, which was funded by the Ceca Foundation. Desta was also honored during a ceremony at Goodwin House Alexandria on Wednesday, March 8th.
“We have been humbled to recognize many amazing caregivers over the years, but Mesfin truly stands out in his dedication and passion for service. When you meet him, you know immediately that he cares genuinely for each resident of Goodwin House Alexandria as if they were his own family,” said Ceca Foundation President Nate Hamme. “People like Mesfin easily brighten someone’s day and make a world of difference in their experience. His exceptional caregiving makes him uniquely deserving of the National Ceca Award.”
Goodwin Living also congratulated team members Amina Kanu, a CNA at Goodwin House Bailey’s Crossroads, and Olivia Muro, a physical therapist at Goodwin Rehabilitation, who were among 14 finalists recognized by the Ceca Foundation.