This month, Homecare Services hosted its semi-annual Coordinators Meeting at the Clubhouse Inn and Suites in 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 Jayne Richards, Coordinator of Services for the Mobridge Branch, was the recipient of the Peggy Fritz Spirit of Service Award for 2022.
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.
Richards has been with the company since 2013. She is steadfast in her dedication to the consumers she serves and her work ethic and can-do attitude are tough to match. She faced the adversities of the past two years with courage, determination and compassion. She leads by example and displays respect, tolerance and dignity to all. She has a true passion and gift for helping people. Steven Novotny, Agency Director of Homecare Services, stated “I have been fortunate to be able to work with Jayne over the past 9 years. I continue to be impressed by her attitude and overall approach to helping people. She is a role model to all of us.”