This month, Homecare Services hosted its semi-annual Coordinators Meeting at the River Rock Lodge outside of Pierre, SD. Homecare Services is a home health agency committed to providing expert advice and specialized care to those who want to remain living independently at home. The organization has several locations throughout South Dakota. Twice a year, managers from each of the Agency’s branch locations convene with members of Homecare Services’ administrative team to discuss issues pertinent to in-home services and receive valuable training. At this meeting, Homecare Services announced that BillieJo Patridge was the recipient of the Peggy Fritz Spirit of Service Award for 2020.
The Peggy Fritz Spirit of Service Award was created in honor of Peggy Fritz. Peggy began her career with Homecare Services as a caregiver on August 21, 2001; and was promoted to Coordinator of Services on February 26, 2002. During her time with Homecare, Peggy consistently demonstrated the depth of her commitment to her work, clients, and staff. Peggy never hesitated to put the needs of others ahead of her own. Her willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty serves as both an example and an inspiration. Peggy’s attitude, enthusiasm, and love for her work were contagious.
In 2001, Peggy was diagnosed with cancer. Peggy’s uplifting attitude, unwavering commitment, contagious enthusiasm, and exemplary courage remained steadfast as she fought the battle of her life. In the face of personal hardship Peggy refused to give in, she courageously continued to carry out the mission of Homecare Services. The disease that took her life did not succeed in robbing her of her spirit. Peggy’s contributions to Homecare Services and the many lives she touched are a remaining legacy and the reason for instituting the Spirit of Service Award in her honor and memory.
Patridge has been with Homecare Services since 2014. She began her career as a caregiver and after first being promoted to Assistant Coordinator, she became the Branch Coordinator of the Huron, SD office in 2016. Patridge’s caring spirit and compassionate nature is what got her nominated for this award. Additionally, her positive attitude and hard work and dedication to the consumers of Homecare Services made her an ideal recipient of this award. Steven Novotny, Agency Director of Homecare Services, stated “We are lucky to have such a dedicated and caring individual managing our services in the Huron area. I am proud to be able to present this award to BillieJo.”