Jasmin and Jorene: An Employee Appreciation Day Story
Today is Employee Appreciation Day. Observed on the first Friday in March, Employee Appreciation Day is an annual event that highlights the importance of employers giving thanks or recognition to their employees. At VNS Health, of course, we’re grateful to our team members 365 days a year—you are the lifeblood of the organization.
Still, it’s a perfect day to express the gratitude that we sense all around us—not just from managers to employees, but to each other.
Meet Jasmin Fearon, a new home health aide based in Queens, and her supervisor Jorene Peters—a pair who perfectly exemplify the spirit of the day!
Jasmin Fearon, Home Health Aide, Personal Care, Queens
“I’m from Jamaica originally. I went on to live in the Cayman Islands where I worked in elder care for 14 years, so I was used to being busy all the time. When I moved to the United States, I did my HHA training at VNS Health, but it was a struggle getting work at the beginning—I’d maybe get three hours every other week. I was new in the country, and it was a difficult transition. I was even wondering whether I’d made the right decision moving here! Then I was placed in Personal Care and met Jorene.”
Jorene Peters, HHA Supervisor, Personal Care, Queens
“Jasmin was hired about four months ago, when I was out on maternity leave, and when I returned I noticed she was having trouble getting work. When you’re new, your name is not out there and might not pop up when supervisors are under stress and need someone to fill in—they look for people they know. But I could see that Jasmin really wanted to work. I got that sense from her right away. She was willing to take on any job, even if it was just a few hours, or clear across the borough. Some aides have reservations, but she was enthusiastic and willing, and I could always rely on her. So I helped put together a lot of small-hour jobs to get her the hours she needed, until I had a full caseload for her.”
Jasmin
“Jorene reached out to me and really showed me the ropes. Here I was in unfamiliar surroundings, and here was this wonderful, friendly-voiced person who listened, showed empathy, and encouraged me so much. She showed me how to use the Care Connect and HHAx apps and took me through the entire journey to where I am today, working 40 hours with clients I love. She melted my heart. I want everybody to know what a gem she is!”
Jorene
“Jasmin is so appreciative and is always thanking me, but I’m always telling her no, thank you!
I could always count on her; she was always willing to help me out with all those small-hour jobs whenever I was in a bind. She worked with me, and I worked with her. She’s a terrific aide and the clients love her. I know she’s thankful to me, but I’m every bit as thankful to her. She makes my job so much easier! It really goes both ways.”
Jasmin
“Jorene really changed my life! She took me from struggling and feeling awkward and new to where I am today, in a job I love. I’m also continuing my education, and in time I plan to go to nursing school to become an RN. I know that Jorene’s encouragement has been instrumental in giving me the opportunity and confidence to ultimately achieve my goals.”
