Staff Appreciation Week

As the year came to a close, Sertoma Star Services took time to recognize the heart, dedication, and commitment our staff bring to their work every day. Supporting individuals with developmental disabilities and those living with mental illness requires compassion, skill, and an unwavering dedication—and our staff demonstrate that daily.

To show our appreciation, Staff Appreciation Week was held from December 15 through December 19. Throughout the week, staff were celebrated with small tokens of gratitude, moments of reflection, and opportunities to connect as a team. It was the Executive Team’s way of saying thank you for the meaningful impact staff make on the lives of the individuals and communities we serve.

Grenier Honored with the Heart of Passion Award

On December 9, the Crisis Center for South Suburbia hosted their annual Volunteer and Staff Recognition Dinner, and we are overjoyed to share that Sertoma Star Services staff member Trish Grenier was honored with the 2025 Doreen Holford Heart of Passion Award.

This award recognizes individuals who serve with love, consistency, and a purpose that can’t be taught. What a beautiful sentiment and one that describes Trish perfectly.

For more than five years, Trish has been bringing consumers to volunteer at the Crisis Center, guiding them as they learn new tasks and build skills that support work readiness. As the Crisis Center shared, “She celebrates progress in all forms and creates a space where everyone feels valued.” Trish also volunteers her own time at the Crisis Center demonstrating even further her generous spirit.

We are incredibly proud of Trish for this well-deserved recognition. Her compassion, dedication, and heart make a difference every single day, and she truly lives the mission of Sertoma Star Services.

Creating the Next Generation of Leaders

Sertoma Star Services is proud to celebrate staff members Jovan Green and Monica Young, who recently completed the IARFuture Leadership Initiative. This unique program is designed to develop, train, and strengthen the next generation of leaders serving in not-for-profit social service agencies.

Jovan, a Community Living Administrator, and Monica, an Accounting Manager, are pictured with Chief Program Officer Roxanne Roman. Their commitment to professional growth and leadership development helps strengthen our organization and advance our mission.

Congratulations to Jovan and Monica on this important achievement—we look forward to seeing the continued impact of their leadership.