The Heart Behind the Work: Celebrating RHA Employees Who Make a Difference
March 6, 2026
On Employee Appreciation Day 2026 , RHA Health Services recognizes the extraordinary employees who bring compassion, dedication, and leadership to their work every day. Across our organization, team members support individuals, families, and communities in meaningful ways that truly change lives.
The stories shared during the 2025 RHA Cares Awards highlight the impact our employees make across every program and community we serve. During the ceremony, leaders gathered to recognize individuals who exemplify the spirit of RHA through their commitment to care and service.
The RHA Cares Excellence Award recognizes employees who go above and beyond in supporting the individuals we serve. As one leader shared during the ceremony: “When you think of a blanket, you think of warmth; you think of comfort; you think of support. That’s what all these recipients are.”
Here are the recipients of the 2025 RHA Cares Excellence Awards :
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– Steven Karanja, Group Home Supervisor in Lafayette, NJ
Each recipient represents the compassion and dedication that defines the work happening across RHA every day.
Joe Medler, Vice President of Operations for New Jersey, shared how award recipient Steven Karanja creates an environment where individuals and staff feel welcome the moment they enter the home.
“From the moment you step into Lafayette, you can feel the warmth and care that Steven has infused into every corner,” he shared.
For others, the recognition highlights years of service and mentorship. Maelyn Henderson has spent more than 35 years supporting individuals and guiding staff with positivity and leadership.
In Georgia, Euvelia is known for building strong teams and encouraging the individuals she supports to stay engaged and active in their communities. Colleagues often describe her leadership simply: “She doesn’t just pour herself into her job—she pours herself into her team.”
Many of the honorees were recognized for the deep compassion they bring to their roles. Charlie Tate, a Direct Support Professional in the Trenton unit, was described by colleagues as “a force of love, advocacy, and unwavering commitment.” Her work is shaped by her own life experiences and her desire to make others feel safe and supported.
Sherunda Davis, House Manager in Chattanooga, has earned the trust of families through her strong advocacy for the individuals she serves. One family member shared that after attending medical appointments with his sister for more than 25 years, he now feels confident knowing Sherunda will ensure she receives the best possible care.
Other recipients have dedicated decades to supporting individuals and strengthening their communities. Margaret French has spent nearly 30 years bringing energy and joy to the individuals she supports in Hendersonville, while Vivian Wooten has worked for more than 33 years mentoring staff and advocating for the people in her care.
Joshua Williams, a Direct Support Professional in Creedmoor, was recognized for the reliability and enthusiasm he brings to his role every day. As one leader shared, “He doesn’t just show up—he shows up with heart.”
Beyond recognition, RHA Cares Excellence Award recipients received bonus checks, hourly pay increases, and commemorative blankets. The blankets symbolize the warmth, comfort, and support these employees provide to the individuals they serve.
Employee Appreciation Day serves as an opportunity to celebrate the dedication of every team member across RHA. Each role contributes to our mission of supporting people and strengthening communities.
Please join us in congratulating the recipients and thanking all RHA employees for the difference they make every day!
If you would like the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others, visit rhajobs.com and apply today! RHA is the place Where Compassion Meets Career.
