A personal support worker (PSW) at Helen Henderson Care Centre (HHCC) has won an award for her work at a long-term care home in Amherstview.

Venessa West smiles at the news she is the home’s Employee of the Month for June 2023.

Originally from Jamaica, Venessa moved to Canada in 2009. She has worked at the home for the past seven months, originally as agency staff. She was hired by HHCC as a permanent staff member on Dec. 1, 2022

“It’s wonderful here; staff are nice,” explains the 33-year-old mother of three. “I love the teamwork here. I always love to hear the elderly speak about the past. It’s fascinating.”

Venessa says she finds it rewarding to work as a PSW and care for the home’s residents. “It’s something with a purpose,” she explains.

Speaking on behalf of the home, Assistant Director of Care Melissa Locke notes, “Venessa is lovely with staff and residents. She is friendly, reliable, and hardworking. She is always willing to help. We are grateful for her good work.”

Asked to describe herself, she replies quickly, “I get along well with my coworkers. I try to be polite and get things done.

When she’s not at work, Venessa can be found caring for her children, exercising, listening to music, and cooking or baking. She is happy as a PSW, but would like to further her education by studying to become a nurse.

Questions for Venessa

If you could rule the world, what would you do on day-one?

“I’d address crime. In Jamaica, a lot of crime is due to lack of employment and poverty. I’d figure out what causes most of the crime in Canada and try to solve it.

If you could have any superpower, what would you choose?

“Invisibility to help prevent or solve crime.”

If you weren’t at your current job, what would you be doing?

“I’d be working as a nurse.”

Helen Henderson Care Centre is grateful for the good work of Venessa West. To learn more about living or working in our home, please call 613-384-4585.