May HealthConnect Kudos and Shoutouts

At Southwest Washington Accountable Community of Health, we are grateful to work with an amazing community-based workforce. Without these amazing individuals, we wouldn't be able to do the work we do. We want to recognize the hard work of some of these outstanding professionals.

Nicole Hamberger - SWACH

Submitted by Megan Schaffer, Pathways Coordinator
Nicole is a well full of knowledge and I'm so glad I get to have my hand in that well. Thank you for being you and congrats on the baby! Enjoy that new baby smell and those best cuddles.

Wellness Event Team

Submitted by Shay Scott, MCAW Community-Based Worker
HUGE kudos to everyone that worked so hard for the months
leading up to the event.

Briseida, Phung, and Ruby

Submitted by Shay Scott, MCAW Community-Based Worker
HUGE kudos to our team mates that stepped in to help with the
event as well, they were each a huge part in making sure we covered all grounds!

Josh Haldeman, CCFR

Submitted by Sam Lewis, MSW, CARES Community Outreach Coordinator
Thank you for your time with CARES!! Good luck on your new role!!!

Leota at SCCH

Submitted by Ellie McDonald MSW, SUDPT
Leota works very well with our clients that frequently go into crisis. She is very level headed and compassionate toward her clients. She has many high needs individuals on her case load that keep her on her toes. She makes her clients feel safe and supported.

Leota's clients can come to her with any need! Leota has been heard saying, "I take the embarrassment out of an issue." This is a tremendously helpful approach for the clients we serve.

"Leota and I have been working in collaboration with a single mother who went through tremendous adversity the last few years. Leota has been a nurturing and encouraging role model that has helped this young women see her own potential—she has gained her own vehicle and license, regularly attends any parenting class she can access, and has recently completed her GED with a new goal to continue her education in a helping field!" -Maraiah Wenn Esslinger, ATR, LMHC, SUDP
Art Therapist and Mental Health Counselor

Melinda at SCCH

Submitted by Ellie McDonald MSW, SUDPT
Melinda values being a support to those in need. She is quick to respond whenever a client has an issue. Melinda continually is working on self-improvement. She is always looking for opportunities to attend trainings. Melinda is great at staying up to date on various community resources.

"Melinda has been instrumental in helping clients gain the ability to self-advocate for their needs and increase their independence. We shared a medically fragile and overly isolated client, and Melinda was able to assist in finding an amazing home for her that would allow access to community and stronger sense of safety. "
-Maraiah Wenn Esslinger, ATR, LMHC, SUDP
Art Therapist and Mental Health Counselor

Gabe Heredia, SWACH

Submitted by Christina Suarez, MA, RCP, CPC
Thank you for the information, homework and always being willing to answer my questions and emails when I have them especially during this bust training period.

Rafaela at Free Clinic of SW Washington

Submitted by Rebecca O'Brien, MPH
Rafaela has been an incredible team member here at the Free Clinic of Southwest Washington. She goes above and beyond to make sure our patients have access to the resources they need. Our patients know they can come to her for any issues they may have and that she will do whatever she can to help.

Rafaela also makes a point to assist her coworkers anytime its needed, often without being asked. She is hardworking and fun to be around; the Free Clinic is better organization because of Rafaela and our patients, volunteers, and staff are lucky to be able to work with her!

Maribel Gurerrero

Submitted by Kelli Keyes, Sea Mar Community Health Centers
I would like everyone to know that there is a awesome person that goes far and beyond to assists those referred to the Pathways program and Covid Connect Program with much expertise and kindness. This person has helped me when I have had questions with the CCS system.

Overall Maribel Gurerrero should be reconized for her dedication and professionalism. You're awesome!!! Kudos to you!!!