2025 EOY and Rising Star Nominations

Earlier this month, two outstanding individuals who embody core CHS values—being better together, choosing kindness and being tenacious—were chosen as the 2025 CHS Rising Star and Employee of the Year. Congratulations to Shelter for Family Safety Housekeeper Chaley Linder and Loving School Classroom Teacher Intern Kaela Larkin!

Youth Care Provider Grace Eager nominated Chaley for Rising Star. Here is what she wrote.

Chaley is one of the housekeepers at The Shelter for Family Safety. She exemplifies the CHS Mission in the way she ensures a clean and safe environment for our clients. I watch her diligently attend to her work of cleaning and accepting donations, plus much much more. She is the reason we are able to provide our services to those in need.

Chaley, without any hesitation, will clean a room or help with incidents that occur on the daily. She works hard to make the Shelter a welcoming place for all. Many of our clients come from unhealthy environments and situations. Chaley ensures that everyone feels clean and secure during their stay. Chaley also maintains the facilities so that staff have a clean and safe place to work. I remember a time when the Shelter was short staffed, and many rooms needed to be cleaned, and the other daily housekeeping tasks needed to be done. Chaley patiently and tenaciously handled all these tasks by herself with so much grace and love that it should be celebrated because it is the epitome of what serving others in need looks like.

Chaley will drop everything (literally!) when she is needed elsewhere. I have never once heard her complain about any task she may have to do. She is essential to our team and brings all the pieces together, because without her the Shelter would not run as smoothly as it does. She is friendly and kind to all those around her. She is a huge part of accepting donations and bringing in resources that benefit clients at the Shelter. No matter how odd or chaotic the day is, she responds with joy and willingness.

Chaley is a kind and gentle soul. She excels in her job and allows for the place to be a place of growth. She makes sure everyone in the building has a clean space to retreat to and you can only do that if you truly care about others. She exemplifies kindness in her work by spending the time to do the tedious tasks others may struggle to do. I shadowed her when I first started, and I was amazed at how sweet and kind Chaley was. She provided amazing insight on the work that

Chaley is strong. She is passionate. She is tenacious. Through all the craziness that each day brings, you know Chaley will get the job done. I admire her so much and she is a good example of the CHS mission. Chaley comes in with a positive attitude and a "can do" mentality. She never complains or has a hostile attitude. This is noteworthy as the job can be so difficult at times. She brings her A game every day and that is something so rare and so beautiful.

Teacher Assistant Paige Knuth nominated Kaela for Employee of the Year. Here is what Paige had to say.

Kaela is the definition of the CHS mission. She is one of the most resilient, caring, amazing, intelligent, and respectful colleagues I have been blessed to know. She shows up for the children every single day with a smile on her face, despite what may be going on around her. Her love for the kids is evident, and her passion for treating trauma is contagious. Kaela sees the children for who they are and helps provide specific opportunities for them to heal and grow as individuals. I see Kaela helping heal these kids every day and providing them with a safe environment in which they can thrive in. She advocates for these children when so many have looked down upon them in the past. You can tell that the children also sense that, as so many adore her and feel safe around her. Kaela embodies what it looks like to have compassion for others and share a safe space for them to go to. She is one of the key players in helping the growth of CHS and does all of it with pure intentions. Genuineness and humility are keywords that describe Kaela. There is truly no one else in the world like Kaela Larkin. She is a rare gem, and we are lucky enough to have someone like her as part of the mission.

Kaela creates a creative, stimulating, safe, and playful environment for the kids to be kids. She understands that there is a future where children can break the abuse cycle and help heal themselves to go on to heal others. No matter the situation, Kaela always keeps a grounding presence for staff and kids. Kaela helps recharge anyone's energy and calms the nervous system simply by being near her. It shows in the classroom when so many of her kids ask to be by her or sit behind her desk because it makes them feel better. Her lesson plans have revolved around creativity that meets the needs of every child, voicing the resilience each child carries, and how hope can help change their lives. Kaela also helps the kids learn there is nothing wrong with being weird or showing emotions. She is a true cheerleader in celebrating their differences and quirks allowing them to be seen for who they are and accepted for who they are. She's providing the key blueprint for healing and becoming your authentic self for all her kids. She is a one-of-a-kind teacher who has been assisting CHS in moving toward the vision every single day. No matter what or who comes through her classroom doors, Kaela has created an environment where anyone can feel safe, cared for, and inspired. She heals so many people without expecting anything in return. She truly is a physical embodiment of what our vision for CHS is.

It is evident Kaela has a positive impact on the community at CHS. If you ask around the school who brings warmth, acceptance, and comradery, more likely than not, Kaela's name will be mentioned. Some may say it doesn't even stop at the school, but a few staff on the units and in admin can say the same thing. That's how much Kaela shows the value of "better together"; she brings people together in all areas. It doesn't matter what walks of life come through the doors at CHS; Kaela greets them with understanding, compassion, and love. She creates a safe community in the classroom and helps the children learn what a healthy, united environment looks like. Kaela is also vocal about her appreciation for others by making them cards for their accomplishments, listening to them with mindfulness, and celebrating their wins as if they were her own. I can't even count how many times I have seen Kaela brighten someone's day. She is one of the most thoughtful, proactive co-workers that any work environment could have.

If you ask anyone who knows Kaela what is one thing about her that is clear, they will most likely say kindness as one of the words. She pours herself into the kids and staff daily and never expects anything in return. She creates a safe space if someone is struggling, provides beautiful insight if help is needed, and empowers anyone of their potential. I have become a better person by working with Kaela. Not many people can help everyone in the community feel wanted, but Kaela does. She greets every student with a smile and hypes up all accomplishments, whether big or small. By just walking into her classroom you can feel the positivity she brings and the light that she shares. If you watch Kaela interact with the kids, you will see how much respect she has for them and how much they respect her. Kaela teaches the children that you don't have to be aggressive to be powerful, but rather be kind to yourself and others to show resilience. The kids are learning that kindness isn't a weakness but quite the opposite, all because Kaela wears that truth on herself every day. She is the ultimate embodiment of what kindness is.

Kaela has been through a journey at Children's Home Society. It started with her being in the school as a one-on-one, then going to admin, then coming back to the school to be a TA, and is now the ELA Middle School classroom teacher. All through her roles one thing always stayed the same; her passion and dedication to the kids. Kaela tells the kids every day how powerful and resilient they are. Even if they respond reactively, Kaela holds the truth of their good and reminds them that they are worthy to heal. It has been researched that the more hope a person has for their work the more they show up, and it is true for Kaela as she shows up for the kids every day. Even when she wasn't feeling the best, she still came to work as she didn't want to miss a child's discharge party; that's how much she loves these kids and lives the mission. Kaela consistently tries to think of new ways or approaches on how we can heal these kids and their traumas. She showcases it even in her teaching by centering her lesson plans around resilience, authenticity, and hope. If a child is struggling or having a rough patch, Kaela sees them out and has never given up on them. Not only does Kaela lead the classroom with positivity and innovative lessons but she does it while being in school as a current student herself. Only a tenacious person can balance work, school, family, and friends mindfully, while still bringing light to everyone around them. She does so much for so many and never asks for anything in return. Kaela is one of the most dedicated trauma- informed individuals I have met and continues to move forward and lead with her heart. She pours her entire mind, body, and soul into CHS and is bringing us closer to a brighter future. Kaela truly represents what our mission and vision stand for at Children's Home Society.

We received many great nominations from people in all departments who embody the values of CHS. Let’s take a moment to recognize some other outstanding individuals who are striving to do GOOD things for our clients and coworkers and make the world a better place.

Nominations for Rising Star

Trinity Millar, Housekeeping Coordinator, SFCH, nominated by Vickie Duran

Trinity is the best! She is loving, caring, attentive and a great listener. She is dedicated not only to the mission of CHS, but those she supervises. She is always on top of getting us the supplies that we need to do our best. She's very patient and kind and helps us keep our buildings clean and safe.

Josh Johnson, Teacher BHCH Owen School, nominated by Jace Jackson

Joshua uses his trauma in life as an example to help the kids see that there is light at the end of the tunnel. He teaches them that no matter what you are going through, it doesn't make this your last stop in life, and our choices can change your outcome.

Joshua continuously pushes the kids to be better versions of themselves. He helps them with being able to make better choices in the long run and that their choices impact their behavior.

Joshua shows up and is quick to offer his services to anybody that needs help. He helps the kids with all of their needs and helps his coworkers whenever it is needed. Whenever there is a shortage of staff, he is available to help. Whenever there is a need for extra eyes, he's one of the first people to answer the call.

He uses his sense of humor to build a fun work environment for everybody. He treats the kids with respect and the adults as well. Joshua has focused his time on making PE fun for Owen School. It was a big struggle for a lot of staff during PE time and he has added structure along with creating a fun environment.

Kristen Haiby, RYC, SFCH, nominated by Amelia Ewing

Kristen is always taking the time to talk to residents in need and strives to understand what each child she works with is going through. She is very mindful of each child's trauma and how to prevent further trauma.

Kristen is very kind and welcoming to all. She is inclusive with residents, fellow staff and families at CHS.

Samantha Rasmussen, Crisis Advocate, Shelter for Family Safety, nominated by Britney Kennedy

Sami comes to work every day and puts her personal life behind her to focus on helping treat, heal, and prevent trauma to women, men and families. Sami makes sure to put 100% of her time into her work and has trouble saying no. Sami brings these three core values to CHS every day.

Sami makes clients feel safe and cared for and makes sure all their needs are met. It's hard to give one example because she does it for every client that comes into Shelter, whether it's for resources, shelter or a protection order.

When there are days I don't feel 100% myself for my clients, Sami is there with a listening ear and is always willing to help out by picking up Acting Program Supervisor roles or meeting with a client after she just helped someone else. She is great backup when we have escalated clients and makes sure to check up on her team.

Sami knows how to bring kindness into work every day by being a positive light who's willing to be present and work. She treats all staff and clients the same and makes work a safe place. Sami is tenacious by focusing on one project and finding a solution to any problem. She takes task headfirst and strong while making sure to put her best into it.

Tyson Newton, RYC II, SFCH, nominated by Hanna Fenicle

Tyson demonstrates his commitment to CHS's mission in his role as an RYC by offering empathy, dedication, and trust through his approaches with the children. Tyson is always ready to learn and grow in his role. He is willing to try anything that will help prevent, treat, and heal trauma through his approaches, de-escalation strategies, and ways to build rapport with the children he cares for at CHS.

He acts as a great role model to the children he cares for by demonstrating CHS's vision. He is consistent, calm, reliable, present, flexible, and committed in his role as an RYC working directly with the children. Tyson's qualities show the children what a safe, healthy, and resilient person is. One of Tyson's strongest qualities is his willingness to work as a team and help whenever and however needed.

Tyson demonstrates CHS's core value "We are better together" by adapting to changes so often in his role as a Weekender/Float RYC on Madsen Up. He is always caring for new children, families, and our community by working in the Intake Unit. His role on the Intake unit as a Weekender/Float RYC requires even more flexibility than nearly any other position on campus. He is always adapting by taking care of different children, de-escalating unexpected behaviors, and moving to different children/groups/locations all at a moment's notice. Not only is he willing to take on these challenges on his own unit, but he is also always willing to help out other units at any time.

Despite the complexity of this role, Tyson remains an extremely strong, reliable and committed staff every day. He is always ready to help with a positive attitude. Tyson demonstrates CHS's value of choosing kindness by working to help children and staff on his unit and campus-wide. He is always working in ways to cultivate growth, understanding, and respect by listening, learning, and trying his best to shine a light on every child and staff's strengths. Tyson demonstrates CHS's value of being tenacious by being willing to learn or try different coping strategies and unique ways to interact with children to build relationships and rapport with them. He is present, committed, and flexible in his role as an RYC working directly with children and families at CHS who face adversity.

Tony Pierce, RYC, BHCH, nominated by Stephen Kruse

Tony exemplifies the CHS mission to prevent, treat, and heal trauma through his dedication and impactful approach. As an excellent teacher, he uses motivational talks and positive affirmations to inspire and uplift those around him. His caring nature is evident in his tone and attitude, consistently showing genuine concern for his group. Tony goes above and beyond to support others, especially during challenging times, using his inspiring words to restore hope and resilience. His commitment to fostering a positive environment makes him an outstanding advocate for CHS's mission.

Tony embodies the CHS vision of creating a world that stands up to trauma, fostering safety, health, and resilience. Through his work, he consistently uplifts his group and those around him by radiating positivity and avoiding negativity. Tony demonstrates unwavering care and dedication by motivating others with powerful affirmations and inspirational talks. His tone and attitude reflect genuine concern, and he goes above and beyond to ensure that everyone feels valued and supported.

By inspiring resilience and creating an encouraging environment, Tony plays a vital role in advancing the CHS vision. He exemplifies the core value "We are better together" through his teamwork, compassion, and dedication to the mission of CHS. He fosters a supportive environment by consistently caring for his teammates, checking in to see if they are okay, and offering thoughtful advice to uplift the group. Tony goes the extra mile by bringing goodies to brighten the day for those who may need encouragement. His positivity and genuine concern for others create a stronger, more unified team. Tony's actions help shape a brighter future for children, families, and the community, demonstrating the power of collaboration and care.

Tony embodies the CHS core value "We choose kindness" through his respectful and understanding approach to his work. He is highly attuned to the needs of others, always reading the room to ensure his words and actions are thoughtful and considerate. Tony fosters an environment of growth and respect by valuing everyone's choices and ideas, encouraging collaboration and mutual understanding. His kindness, paired with his ability to uplift and inspire, brings out the best in his teammates and creates a space where everyone feels valued and supported.

Tony demonstrates the CHS core value "We are tenacious" through his heartfelt dedication to creating a brighter future for children and families. His genuine love for his work is evident in everything he does, from motivating his team to fostering a positive and supportive environment. Tony's actions, whether offering encouragement, respecting others' perspectives, or taking extra steps to uplift those around him, highlight his relentless commitment to the mission. His passion and determination serve as a guiding light, helping to pave the way for children and families to overcome adversity and thrive.

Lisa Hanisch, Administrative Assistant, SFCH, nominated by Briar Schweitzer

Lisa has demonstrated CHS's mission by supplying RYCs with the information needed on how to best help the children. She works with guardians and case workers to learn as much as possible about the kids before they come, so RYCs aren't jumping in blind.

Lisa is a person the kids can rely on and enjoy even when they leave the unit. She tries endlessly to provide the incoming children comfort, safety, and a semblance of normalcy in a brand-new environment. Lisa shows that we are better together by working to keep everyone informed, such as call logs and visit summaries. She is a large source of information for anything needed on campus. With our team being new, she has been awesome in pointing us in the right direction when we need something.

Lisa is always willing to help whenever she is needed, she will step in to watch kids or help RYCs get a craft ready before the kids get on the unit. She is always stepping up, like when she helped order kids' Christmas program clothes when they were last-minute admits.

Lisa is tenacious because she is often working on updating policies and procedures to better fit the COA standards. Whenever she is asked to do something, she will always start on it and give her full effort as soon as she can.

Lisa Hanisch, Administrative Assistant, SFCH, nominated by Taylor Trudeau

Lisa works with kids every day by helping staff be the best they can be. She handles all the admissions stuff that goes into the call sheets and makes sure there is a name tag for each child. Lisa works to be a safe person that the kids can rely on when they need someone to talk to or if they need someone to do their hair.

She also does a great job by making sure we have all of the notes for the child when they first come in. She works on all of the call sheets, and the appointments that we need. Whatever questions we might have she always has the answers for us.

Lisa is willing to help wherever is needed. For example, when we needed help with the parent's Christmas presents, she threw herself into the job and helped get them done. Lisa is always working on making CHS a whole. She is helping with COA and helping make sure out policies fit into the COA standards.

Nominations for Employee of the Year

Arliss Chinn, Housekeeper, Shelter for Family Safety, nominated by Keanna Hubner

Arliss is a team player and always steps up when needed. She is an absolute rock of stability for us here in housekeeping. She is always dependable, willing to step up to any task and we always know she will get the job done with a smile on her face!

Arliss is always kind and gentle with her words and actions, and she will never cease to lend a helping hand. Her grit to get through the tough days and weeks is admirable. She doesn't let difficulty shake her kindness or willingness to help. We adore and appreciate her immensely!

Kent Glazier, Team Coordinator, SFCH, nominated by Gabby Larson

Kent not only shows CHS's mission daily, but he also finds new ways for us as an organization to strive for it. Every interaction Kent has with a resident is not only treating their trauma but helping them to build new pathways to healing. He continuously has the CHS child in mind at all times when addressing any situation.

Kent stands up for our vision in every daily shift huddle, staff meeting and larger-scale meeting. He is always voicing areas of growth or concerns in a way that shows his passion for the kids we serve and the staff who serve them. His goal is to truly help heal kids.

Kent stepped into a team coordinator role this last year and showed he was more than capable for the job. He joined at a time when the unit had a lot of high behaviors. Every day Kent would come to work ready to problem solve, and give the kids not only his best but also motivated the team to do the same. No matter how many times Kent is with a struggling child, he is showing them kindness and grace every time.

I have seen him hold team huddles to solve problems, bring things up in meetings and become a big leader on his unit. He cares so much about his teammates and the work they all do and does not hesitate to show that. Kent will work extra hours to make sure staff are supported, he will stay late to ensure paperwork is correct and he takes his time having debriefing conversations with staff.

Kent has brought so much growth to his unit since starting at CHS and even more now that he is in a leadership role. He pushes others to do their very best and people naturally respect Kent's voice because of how he treats others. He is truly motivated by good, and everyone around him can feel that. He pushes himself, his team and the whole unit to do better.

Kent Glazier, Team Coordinator, SFCH, nominated by Peter Fixsel

Kent has stepped into the role of Team Coordinator and has shown an excellent sense of leadership. He embodies the mission of preventing, treating, and healing trauma. Kent has been a strong advocate for the vision of CHS, showing compassion and taking time to listen when a voice needs to be heard.

Kent has shown we are better together by collaborating with his teammates on both sides and making sure voices are heard outside of units. Kent has shown his kindness time and time again with the clients we serve and the people who work with Kent daily. He's been able to do this outside of the unit as well when other units need extra support. Kent has shown up as a voice for others and as an advocate for the mission through his daily practice.

Wendy Ensz, Housekeeper, SFCH, nominated by Merlin Norton

Wendy has been an active member of CHS for many years, assisting in healing children and peers alike. She continued to strive even after stepping down as the previous music teacher and still finds ways to weave her melodious behavior into her everyday work regardless of which department she resides in. Wendy has made it well-known that she and her building, as well as her supervisor, are people who excel in making newcomers feel like they are in a safe space and are willing to assist in any manner of tasks.

Wendy is a North Star in her own right. She brightens every room and makes it known that everyone matters. She works around what is best for herself and assists peers who require an extra hand. Despite how long one has spent at CHS, they feel Wendy's presence to be one of genuine care which could be compared to that of a family member.

Wendy enables amazingly good habits which in turn brushes off onto others unconsciously. She inspires others to continue those good habits or delve deeper into them. Her respect and understanding for children's safety whilst on the job are immense due to her prior work ethic as a teacher. She has great attention to detail in making the environment immensely safe, positive, and engaging.

Wendy has been able to blaze her own trail, push herself outside the normalcy of the crowd and inspire others alongside her to feel the same passion and the drive to do better for everyone within the company as well as themselves.

Paige Knuth, Teacher Assistant, SFCH Loving School, nominated by Kaela Larkin

Paige's entire essence as a being is to heal. She takes it upon herself to read about various approaches of care, to truly understand the origin of traumas and to comprehensively get to know our students to best serve them. She carries with her the most radiant heart of service that it rubs off on the children and they attempt to fill her shoes in ways of kindness and empathy.

Paige can be seen crouching by students in negative head spaces, talking in the calmest tone and offering as much time and space as needed to move through big feelings. She builds relationships with kids with such intention and ease that she can pull any child out of their funk through distractions of interests—like favorite animals or books or shows of the children. She asks deep questions about their families or triggers to get to the root of the issues respectfully, or empowering students through knowing more about themselves or through helper jobs.

Not only does Paige do everything she can to help build up our students, but she uses all of these innate powers to lift her coworkers to their highest potential as well. Paige holds space for her coworker's feelings, she never lets anyone's self-doubt get the best of them because she offers sincere affirmation, she allows for venting constructively and offers positive perspectives to take, and she will randomly and consistently remind others of their worth and role in CHS's purpose.

Paige is admired by all for her endless positive attributes. It truly is such an honor to work alongside her and learn from all of her ways. There have been countless days we look at each other across the classroom with tears in our eyes saying "What is this job that we GET to do?" She has worked tirelessly to make our classroom a sanctuary for everyone and a space for being a true kid. The kids feel it, I feel it, we all are healing in this space because of her efforts. Paige provides the students with opportunities for reflection with lessons of "decompression and discussion". She prompts class conversations about what is going well, what could use improvement, and how to convey these thoughts respectfully. The students are then activated in their communication skills, and their confidence in finding solutions, and they are gifted the opportunity to truly be heard.

When speaking to Paige, there is never any doubt that she is deeply hearing you and committing your thoughts to memory - she has an outstanding memory. Outcomes of these Decompress and Discuss conversations with the kids have been finding more positive and connective tools for the classroom, working through the individual puzzles of each kid with their interests and triggers, engaging in healthy debate for building conflict resolution skills and identifying personal strengths of each student to best meet them where it is needed in the future.

Paige is building a stronger, healthier world by providing the students with these opportunities for empowerment. Paige has also had countless conversations with staff and students alike about how these are the future leaders of our society and how much beauty can come from their resilience. I have witnessed the light in a student's eyes come back to life with these statements of knowing someone believes in them. There is no greater gift than the messages of true belief, affirmation and care that Paige showers our students with. Paige has no room for judgment and only kindness in her approach to building relationships with the staff around her. She bridges the gap of "siloed" programs through her continued education in CHSU, fostering communication and transparency with unit staff during wake-ups and speaking positively to and about everyone around her. If I ever have questioned how to resolve an issue with another employee, doubted the way I executed a situation, or want to bounce ideas around to find the best possible outcome in any situation, Paige is the one I go to. She listens with intent, thoughtfully curates a response, and finds a solution for the conflict in a respectful manner that would result in everyone feeling safe and understood.

Paige unifies everyone. Whether it is singing compliments down the hallway, popping into others' classrooms to make sure they are okay, or setting up group outings to connect with everyone —Paige is behind it all. You feel safe to be your genuine self around her and can learn so much from the way she presents herself in the world. I would not be the employee I am today without Paige to guide me and support me every single day. Paige fully embodies patience and kindness in all avenues of her life. I feel endlessly supported by her on good days and bad days because she is always willing to share an affirmation or offer nurturance. She truly knows the interests of all those around her, remembers their favorite things and what they don't like, and provides people with surprise gifts to lift their spirits on hard days.

Paige simply loves everyone around her and makes that known by unifying and actively appreciating everyone. When asking students about Paige's kindness, one stated "100% of her is kind". The students feel safe with Paige, they feel heard and cared for and that they truly matter because of how she treats and speaks to them. Even while holding children accountable, Paige speaks with kindness, knowing the students can rise to her standards. She reminds everyone of their capabilities and helps them to reach their goals with effortless kindness.

Paige is on a driven mission to heal, uplift, and bring about betterment for all. She recognizes the innate gifts of each student in such a short amount of time, works every day toward helping the children realize these gifts in themselves, and highlights ways to use these gifts to bring about a better future for themselves and the collective. Paige's compliments and nurturance could never be described as surface-level. She reaches into the depths of what a child desperately needs to hear, turns "weaknesses" into superpowers, and speaks with kindness every day.

Paige embodies having the mission of moving into a better future to face adversity. Working with older kids, Paige also gracefully approaches the conversations of healing within instead of repeating cycles for our students. They are receptive to these messages as it is known Paige speaks from the heart and with pure intention. Even on the hardest of days, and Paige has seen many, she shows up in full force actively working to change the world. And she does so, changing the world, every day with her kindness, unifying nature, and tenacity.

Paige has a heart of CHS and service. She is everything I strive to be each day and the grandest example of resilience and empowerment for our kids. It is such an honor to witness her work and to be led by her through all of life's and CHS's trials.

Jessie Mollet, Team Coordinator, SFCH, nominated by Layne Lewis

Jessie is always making sure her staff are using the right care for the children and always making sure there are people to cover shifts so the kids have the right amount of care. She always checks on the kids in the morning and sees how they are doing. Making sure they are in a positive mood. She is always making sure the team knows what their duties are. Jessie brings joy to the team.

Jessica Broullire, Education and Public Awareness Specialist, nominated by Rachel Perkins

Jessica leads CHS in the prevention of childhood trauma as the West side of the state's trainer. She does multiple trainings every week for our schools, PD, Sheriff's office and the community. Jessica is engaging and relatable in her training while tailoring each training to the specific needs of each group.

She recently started a pilot program at the local jail working with inmates to understand their trauma and looking at ways to heal it.

Aside from Jessica's role in prevention, she is also an advocate for families that come into the CAC for forensic interviews. She supports families and provides resources to families in what is likely the hardest events they have been through. Jessica makes families feel safe and supported throughout the entire process. Jessica is also great at "wrangling" those kiddos who need extra support and encouragement.

She truly is the definition of "better together". Jessica is the glue that holds the CAC team together. She is always thoughtful and can offer a different lens or perspective to the situations we face. Jess is the brightness to the team. The rest of the team is slightly introverted, whereas Jess is the outgoing and positive person who balances the rest of the team. Jess is always kind and respectful to everyone—partners, parents, trainees and everyone in between.

She always has words of encouragement and HOPE. If all the above examples aren't enough, she is determined and dedicated to helping prevent trauma and childhood sexual abuse, while also offering hope and helping people see their strengths.

Kris Leonhardt, RYC, SFCH, nominated by Sean Riley

Kris communicates with everyone on campus. She is never afraid to offer no-nonsense ideas to make our campus the best it can be. She is a force and a great example to learn from.

I've seen her do whatever to make sure our kiddos have their needs met. From buying necessities from the store to fixing wheels on a laundry cart. She is very tenacious making sure needs are met.

Faron Lais, Volunteer Development Coordinator, SFCH, nominated by Chuck Beck

Faron is a ray of sunshine in the office. She always has a positive thing to say and is willing to take on tough issues if she can help. Faron's positivity is catching and you can't help but take that positivity with you to spread around. She cares about the people and the work around her.

She is the perfect team player. Faron is willing to help where needed but isn't overly assertive to the point of being annoying. Faron has been kind to me since day one. She's shown kindness and grace to me since I arrived. I think she does whatever it takes to help CHS succeed either behind the scenes or in day-to-day activities.

Rachel Walton, Clinical Unit Supervisor, BHCH, nominated by Christina Myers

Rachel is an outstanding therapist and wants the best for her kids. She comes up with different tactics to try and help us out on the units and will look into things when we have questions. She's a TBRI trainer and is educated in what she teaches.

Rachel is a team player and is there when we need advice on the units or will look into something for us if we have questions. We are getting more autistic children and she has gone and looked up ways for us to face the challenges and help them.

Rachel Walton, Clinical Unit Supervisor, BHCH, nominated by April Roselles

Rachel demonstrates the CHS mission by doing therapy with the children, she walks them through their trauma narratives and provides positive experiences for the kids. She's very empathetic and understanding towards the kids and the staff she serves. Rachel demonstrates the CHS Vision by helping children and families work through trauma and by promoting safety and helping kids feel safe.

Rachel provides resilience by giving children and families positive experiences. She demonstrates that we are better together by showing up to work with a cheerful attitude. She promotes teamwork and works well with the team! She treats others as valuable.

She demonstrates kindness by her kind and respectful attitude towards the kids and staff she serves. Rachel shows that she truly cares about the kids she serves and wants good things for them. And encourages them through tough situations. I am thankful to have Rachel be a part of the team at BHCH, she adds value to the organization and the staff and kids she serves!

Shelby Altfillisch, Therapist, SFCH, nominated by Haley Groeneweg

Shelby is very kind and considerate of those around her and is willing to check on her coworkers to ensure that they are doing their best. Even though we don't work in the same department, I know that Shelby is someone I can depend on and look to for help if I have a question or need recommendations.

Shelby always shares a bright, positive attitude with her coworkers and clients, treating individuals with respect and care. She takes a kind and caring approach to her work with the children and their families. Shelby is a strong advocate for her clients and always has their best interests at heart. At times when tasked with difficult conversations with parents, she is willing to take on the challenges to best meet the needs of the children.

JaeLynn Garry, Crisis Advocate, Shelter for Family Safety, nominated by Breckin Steilen

JaeLynn arrives at work each day with a strong commitment to supporting others. She approaches her role with a focus on hope and empowerment for the clients and children at Shelter for Family Safety. JaeLynn embodies a healing mindset that embraces inclusivity for all individuals. She consistently goes above and beyond for her clients, attending various non-profit meetings, participating in court advocacy, and mentoring new employees on effective advocacy practices. JaeLynn is dedicated to teaching others, ensuring they can deliver the high standard of care that clients deserve when fleeing domestic violence.

JaeLynn consistently embodies the vision of CHS. Her choice of language when interacting with clients is both trauma-informed and compassionate, ensuring that individuals feel safe both physically and emotionally. JaeLynn takes health and well-being at the shelter very seriously, regularly encouraging her colleagues to prioritize their self-care, whether that be through taking time for lunch or mental breaks. She is proactive in preventing the spread of illness, striving to maintain a healthy environment for everyone. Despite the challenges of communal living, JaeLynn excels in maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene of the shelter.

Moreover, she exemplifies resilience. JaeLynn is not only dedicated to supporting her colleagues but also to her own growth. In challenging situations, she demonstrates effective delegation and task completion, contributing to a stronger and more cohesive team. JaeLynn exemplifies the core value of better together in the workplace by actively engaging with her colleagues, appreciating diverse perspectives, and striving towards common objectives. She promotes a culture of respect, empathy, and support, ensuring that each team member's strengths are acknowledged and leveraged. Through open communication, willingness to assist others when necessary, and celebrating team achievements, JaeLynn plays a crucial role in fostering a positive and productive environment where the entire team can excel.

JaeLynn completely embraces a commitment to kindness in the workplace by engaging in each interaction with compassion, consideration, and openness. She actively listens and offers support while being mindful of the challenges that others may encounter. Through her patience, encouragement, and careful conflict resolution, JaeLynn cultivates an environment in which individuals feel respected and valued. Her efforts contribute to building trust, strengthening relationships, and creating a positive and collaborative culture where everyone is recognized for their contributions.

JaeLynn embodies tenacity in the workplace through her persistence, resilience, and determination. She remains committed to both her personal goals and the broader objectives of the organization. When faced with challenges, JaeLynn approaches them with a problem-solving mindset, tackling obstacles head-on and never wavering in her commitment. Her enthusiasm for tasks, coupled with a positive attitude, helps maintain momentum, even during tough times. Additionally, she actively supports her colleagues, forwarding an environment where success feels within reach for each individual she is involved with.

JaeLynn Garry, Crisis Advocate, Shelter for Family Safety, nominated by Michelle Schroeder

JaeLynn is an amazing team leader/team player and supports our clients showing them respect, dignity and compassion. She displays humor, grace and care with her teammates and everyone around her.

JaeLynn operates quickly when working in crisis, thinks fast on her feet and never displays her frustrations outwardly and responds with a smile and a can-do attitude. She receives such admiration from all her staff and team and is given such respect. When I speak on behalf of JaeLynn, there is not a single crisis worker who does not deserve this nomination, but I look at the number of them that has been trained by JaeLynn and walk away feeling proud of themselves, and confident they can return and perform the duties expected in the position.

JaeLynn wears many hats at Shelter for Family Safety in the crisis role, fills in for acting APS when needed, helps in all directions when called upon, and does this with grace and style that is mirrored among her peers and is highly regarded for her candid nature to work with people. She along with a lot of our wonderful staff, is working on her Master's, not to mention is a mom, wife, friend and mentor.

JaeLynn has an uncanny ability to calm those who are in the midst of the storm. JaeLynn has dealt with clients who've gotten upset over several things, and she remains professional and knows how to keep it to the point and validate the client's feelings—making them feel heard. Helping out at the hub taking on any task that arises no matter the kind of day this person is experiencing.

She checks in with staff to see if they need anything, cross checks with her team before going on to the next step when things are chaotic and very busy in shelter. She's a real team player. JaeLynn and all the crisis team deal with some very complex issues. She works with her team to come up with solutions to better aid the client with their transition into shelter. When a client comes in and does not meet the criteria, JaeLynn is compassionate about delivering the news, offers alternative resources and listens with a compassionate active ear.

Chonitcha Hodges, Cook, BHCH, nominated by Jerry Bamsey

Chonticha always takes time out from her workload to answer any questions a kid or staff may ask of her. Chonticha brings several years of experience in cooking for the Rapid City School District to the Children's Home. She is asked daily to come up with a healthy meal for the kids at the CHS.

Chonticha is well-liked by the staff and kids. She is always willing to go outside of her daily tasks to help others. The kids and staff are always happy to see Chonticha during mealtime. She is always willing to listen and give helpful and thoughtful advice when asked. Regularly, Chonticha will stay after her shift is over and spend time with the kids on projects they may be working on.

Chonticha doesn't have a high-profile job that gets a lot of attention, and the input she gives at Children's Home may be overlooked at times, but none the less has a positive impression on the kids and staff that she works for. She is without a doubt an unsung hero to Children's Home. It's an honor to work with someone like that.

Sabrina Johnston, Nurse Supervisor, BHCH, nominated by Coral Hein

Sabrina is constantly putting out fires, and they're not always big fires either. Not the fires that everyone notices but the ones that could make a huge impact if they get big enough, for example, Sabrina coordinates when the providers come, all the documentation that they bring, medication changes, medication management, monitoring how the medications have impacted the children, and she makes the process look seamless. She is very detail-oriented!

In her role, so much harm can be done by not monitoring the small details such as behavior changes, medication changes and more. When a child finds a regimen that works for them, this allows them to leave CHS and go back to their homes. Medication management is a huge part of the healing process that not many people see. When a child is being cared for medically it makes them feel good. Some of these kids have never been to a dentist appointment or vision appointment before they come to CHS. It could be for many different reasons, but Sabrina and the nursing department make this happen.

If a child comes to CHS because they are having a hard time in school, it could be related to vision or hearing impairment. Sabrina and the nursing team are the ones who help get the child the tools needed to be successful in the classroom.

On multiple occasions, I have seen Sabrina share with the team and advocate for the kids what needs to be done in their best interests medically. A good example of this is when we were in a conference with Dr. Wilson. He has a very tight schedule but if a kid is having continued behaviors, she will make the time to address medication management even if it means that she has to risk staying behind to finish notes for the provider because time got cut short.

Sabrina is a great leader and leadership comes with teamwork. She guides the nursing department to work together to get the tough tasks done together. We are constantly working with each other to complete important tasks in a specific time frame.

When Sabrina is with the kids she is always leading with kindness. For example, a kid was having a hard day because of some personal stuff that happened. While she was eating lunch, she noticed that the kid needed some one-on-one time with adults. She stopped what she was doing and took the kid to go talk. By the time I came to the nurse's office the kid's whole demeanor changed and he was in better spirits.

If you know Sabrina, you know that she's been here for a long time which means she has vacation time stacked to the ceiling (LOL). Whenever it's needed, she changes her time off to best fit the schedule and the needs of the kids. She stays later on nights that she didn't expect to, and she shows up for the kids when they need it most.

Siri Wollmann, RYC II, SFCH, nominated by Kristen Haiby

Siri works hard every day! She comes in and helps the kids out with anything needed. She's able to de-escalate a kid very therapeutically and has built a strong rapport with each kid on the unit. Each child, on the unit and campus, trusts her and enjoys spending time with her.

Siri is a great team worker, she steps in when needed and has answered many questions. She's taught me many different ways to help our unit as I am a newer employee and still learning the ropes of CHS.

Samantha Stoertz, RYC II, BHCH, nominated by Hayla DeMaranville

Samantha is always there for the kids and staff and shows she cares by including everyone. Samantha makes sure every child is taken care of and has everything they may need. Samantha is very inclusive towards everybody and has no problem making others feel included. Samantha has always shown kindness to the children and staff and helps where she can. Samantha will come to work when needed and always performs wonderfully.

Courtney Sargent, RYC I, SFCH, nominated by Lainey Dejong

Courtney does very well engaging with kids. She has a nurturing heart and always brings a smile to their face, even in the hard times. Courtney communicates well with other staff and engages with the kids in her group!

Courtney works collaboratively with every one of the staff and shows the CHS core value of being better together daily by making sure staff are okay and that they have what they need. She never fails to check in on people in the hard moments and doesn't hesitate to step in whenever needed. Courtney holds kids accountable and makes sure that the children here at CHS are meeting their goals.

Courtney Sargent, RYC I, SFCH, nominated by Beldaran Eide

Courtney demonstrates Children's Home Society's mission by doing her absolute best with her flexibility of needs. Courtney has prevented trauma by always making sure her group is not only safe but also maintaining regulation. Courtney has always asked for help when needed, flexible to coping skills needed, and allowed for advice to grow even further.

Courtney has helped treat trauma. A perfect example would be, in Courtney's group she has a little boy who needs constant hope and attention. Since my time of employment, Courtney has instilled hope in this boy. When he is overstimulated, he no longer becomes aggressive but rather apologetic.

Courtney has also helped heal trauma by providing not only nurturance but structure to all kids allowing for safety to be felt and to help heal the past scars that were endured. Courtney has demonstrated the ability to allow the kids she cares for to not only discuss their trauma but be able to let go of it. I have seen with her own eyes the way Courtney has helped the kids visualize and heal their trauma, with her by their side.

Courtney has shown Children's Home Society's vision by keeping her composure during difficult situations and providing nurturance for the kids on Van Demark. For example, on Van Demark the unit had an unfortunate missing child alert sent out. Courtney maintained composure and a playful attitude with the kids she was providing care for. Courtney immediately took action by playing cars and "stuffed animals" in a bedroom with her group of four plus kids. She further shut the door they were in to cause less trauma or anxiety to the kids she was caring for. That is simply the most recent case I could recall. However, there are plenty more where she has demonstrated CHS's vision.

Courtney has helped heal trauma by providing the best skills for every kid in the Van Demark unit. Courtney has designed play time regarding social skills that are necessary for success. Courtney playing with her group, on the ground, playground, couches, forts, etc. I have witnessed Courtney's practices change the kids through nonverbal social cues, active listening, problem-solving skills, empathy, self-control, and positive body language. For example, a girl in her group needed restraints and a recovery room daily, since joining Courtney's care this girl has not only dropped the number of restraints but the one-on-one care has also dropped a landslide. That is based on the problem-solving skills this girl has used (taking space, asking for hugs, or utilizing fidgets). The same boy mentioned above has demonstrated empathy by allowing for apologies to process before being told to feel sorry. Her group has also shown active listening by following not only her directions but group rules daily.

Courtney has been the biggest guidance in my journey here at CHS. She has shown me the ability to grow. Courtney has shown this by listening to my questions every night while typing, showing me where items are located on Van Demark and encouraging me to get med-trained and keep up the hard work.

She cares and respects every kid's journey. She further demonstrates this by respecting her colleagues. Courtney has never once "gossiped" or talked negatively about any staff. Her patience has been incredibly valuable to the Van Demark team.

Needless to say, there is so much more I could write about Courtney's commitment to the Van Demark team. Courtney has shown compassion, care, and safety for all kids on Van Demark. I could list a dozen more examples of how Courtney has shown Children Home Society's core values, mission statement, and vision. However, there would not be enough time in the day to recognize her outstanding ability to be the light in a dark tunnel for these kids. On that note, she deserves this award more than anyone at Children's Home Society. If it can not be seen with the examples above, the board must not have the ability to comprehend the work she has done to allow for those skills with play to be installed within the Van Demark kids all because of Courtney's tenacious, kind, and better-together attitude.

Abbi Zuehlke, Teacher, SFCH Loving School, nominated by Erin Schons

At CHS, our vision is to create a world that stands up to trauma, where all people are safe, healthy, and resilient. Abbi embodies this vision daily in her role as a 3rd/4th-grade teacher, fostering an environment where her students and colleagues feel supported, empowered, and equipped to thrive despite the challenges they face. Through her dedication to structured routines, individualized support, and consistent kindness, Abbi has made an exceptional impact on the Loving School community.

Abbi has demonstrated an extraordinary ability to establish and maintain a structured and supportive classroom environment. Her classroom routines are clear, and students know what to expect, creating a sense of security for those who may struggle with uncertainty. Observations in her classroom consistently highlight her ability to manage transitions effectively, ensure smooth activity shifts, and provide clear directions. Abbi provides calm, effective redirections to keep the focus on learning. Her proactive management minimizes disruptions, allowing her students to feel safe and secure. Abbi also excels at addressing individual needs while maintaining the collective rhythm of her classroom. When working with students, she uses calm, consistent approaches to de-escalate behaviors, ensuring they feel heard and supported. Her one-on-one work with students demonstrates her commitment to meeting students where they are and providing targeted interventions that promote academic and emotional growth.

Abbi recognizes the power of relationships in building resilience in her students. Her process for welcoming new students, which includes peer connections, first-day flexibility, and personalized introductions to classroom routines, ensures that every student feels seen and valued from the start. Abbi demonstrates a natural ability to build trust and foster a sense of belonging with her students, highlighting her ability to address trauma through understanding and connection.

Abbi's interactions with her colleagues also reflect her commitment to resilience. She has demonstrated initiative and thoughtfulness in addressing classroom needs. Her proactive communication with leadership ensures that her classroom is equipped to support her students' diverse needs, furthering CHS's vision of creating a trauma-informed world.

Her work aligns perfectly with CHS's vision of a world that stands up to trauma. She creates a safe space where students feel secure, nurtures their emotional and academic health through thoughtful instruction and routines, and builds resilience by fostering meaningful relationships. Her unwavering dedication to her students, her collaboration with colleagues, and her commitment to CHS's mission make her an outstanding candidate for Employee of the Year.

Abbi exemplifies the core value of "We are better together" through her unwavering commitment to collaboration, teamwork, and collective success. She has consistently demonstrated the ability to foster strong relationships with her colleagues, students, and leadership, embodying the spirit of unity and shared purpose that is central to CHS's mission.

Collaborative Leadership within the Classroom: Abbi's partnership with her teaching assistant, Michelle, is a shining example of collaboration in action. Through open and honest communication, Abbi and Michelle have cultivated a dynamic that prioritizes student success and shared responsibilities. Abbi actively empowers Michelle by involving her in key classroom roles. These opportunities not only contribute to the classroom's effectiveness but also support professional growth.

Abbi's classroom is a testament to the value of teamwork. Whether managing classroom structures, addressing behavioral challenges, or implementing engaging lessons, Abbi and Michelle work seamlessly together to create a supportive and structured environment for their students. Observations have consistently noted the positive impact of this collaboration, with students responding well to the cohesive and consistent approach provided by both staff members.

Engaging with Leadership and Advocating for Classroom Needs: Abbi's commitment to collaboration extends beyond her immediate team. She actively engages with CHS leadership to advocate for resources and improvements that benefit not only her classroom but also the broader school community. By addressing needs within the school setting and working alongside leadership to implement solutions, Abbi reinforces the importance of collective stewardship of CHS's mission and resources. Abbi also contributes to shaping the future of CHS by participating in discussions about long-term goals and initiatives. Her input on professional goal-setting reflects her forward-thinking approach to student achievement and classroom growth. Her willingness to engage in reflective practices and align her efforts with CHS's broader objectives underscores her role as a collaborative leader within the organization.

In her classroom, Abbi models the value of "better together" by fostering a sense of community among her students. Her process for welcoming new students is a prime example of this. By pairing new students with positive peers, Abbi ensures that every student feels included and supported. This approach not only strengthens relationships within the classroom but also teaches her students the importance of collaboration and mutual respect. Abbi's dedication to her students' emotional and academic growth creates an environment where teamwork thrives. Whether through small group activities, partner work, or peer-led discussions, her classroom is a place where students learn the value of working together toward shared goals.

Abbi's work is deeply aligned with CHS's mission to shape the future for children, families, and the community. Her ability to build strong partnerships with her team, advocate for meaningful resources, and foster a collaborative classroom culture reflects her commitment to the collective success of CHS. Abbi understands that achieving CHS's vision requires unity and shared effort, and she consistently demonstrates this understanding through her actions. It is with great pride and confidence that I nominate Abbi Zuehlke for this award.

Salma Sharif, RYC, SFCH, nominated by Morgan Brady

Salma is always willing to step up and help when needed. She is one who never complains and is always a joy to be around. She plans great activities for the children on the weekends and always helps clean and organize when it's needed.

Salma has such a sunshine personality and working with her has been such an amazing experience. Salma also teaches our children manners and basic living skills. She de-escalates children with such ease and is always making the kids laugh. Even though Salma is only at CHS during the weekends, she makes a huge impact on our children at Van Up! The kids are always so excited and happy when she greets them on Saturday and Sunday mornings. They feel so safe with her, as she has such a calm attitude and voice, but is also able to be stern when needed.

Salma is always making sure to check in and see how the staff are doing and how the kids have been doing. She makes sure to check Wednesday notes via email since she does not attend staff meetings and is always making sure the unit is okay.

Salma is one to joke with others, buy staff breakfast or a "pick me up" when they are down, She gives off so much sunshine energy, always! Salma is willing to do whatever it takes to build relationships with each child she has in her group. She plans activities that suit all ages and even incorporates her ethnicity via food by baking, different activities representing different cultures, etc. She is so much fun to be around!

Breckin Steilen, Assistant Program Supervisor, Shelter for Family Safety, nominated by Dawn Endsley

Breckin began his service in Residential Treatment, seeking to understand, advocate, and work to heal trauma through the safety, structure and relationships he provides. Breckin moved quickly into leadership, and then sought a change of pace that brought him to the Shelter to support the mission from a different angle.

Breckin continues to stop back at Residential, picking up occasional relief shift

Jennifer Wallace, Clinical Unit Supervisor, BHCH, nominated by DJ Toczek

Jennifer Wallace is the perfect example of what our CHS vision should look like. In my two years at CHS, I have watched her grow t