Mennonite Home Communities of Ohio (MHCO), Bluffton, was selected as the winner of the “Excellence in Service (Best Practices)” award, presented at a luncheon on Sept. 12, during the LeadingAge Ohio annual conference in Columbus, according to Laura Voth, chief executive officer of MHCO.

Each year, LeadingAge Ohio invites nominations for various awards, which are formally presented at the annual fall conference. 

MHCO received the award for being innovative and visionary in the quest to bring the first Green House homes to Ohio. MHCO’s journey toward Green House homes began in 2004 when four leaders visited the first Green House homes in Tupelo, Miss. 

“The minute they walked in the door, the team knew the philosophy matched the mission and vision of MHCO, and this was something we must do in Bluffton,” said Voth.

She continued: “While bringing the vision to reality meant tremendous work, a large investment of resources and rethinking staffing models, the stories coming from Willow Ridge have affirmed our commitment to the Green House model. Elders at Willow Ridge, their family members and friends have been very appreciative of this commitment.”

Voth said: “The supporting documentation we sent with the award application consisted of 11 stories that have been shared by staff, elders and elders’ family members who are experiencing Willow Ridge. 

“These stories demonstrated improved quality of life and enhanced resident and family satisfaction.  These improvements were made possible by the commitment of staff and the physical environment of Betty House and Frieda House.”

LeadingAge Ohio promotes and fosters the best practices that make the lives of elders meaningful, enjoyable and safe. By taking the lead in Ohio, MHCO has the opportunity to encourage other nursing homes to consider the Green House model.

“It is a privilege to have been selected for this award.  It would not have been possible without the hard work and commitment of staff, board members, churches, donors, and the broader community,” said Voth.

Awarded to an organization displaying outstanding initiative, motivation and leadership in providing quality services in various service lines, including licensed nursing care.

Award Criteria:  Applicants must be a LeadingAge Ohio member in good standing and demonstrate one or more of the following:

• A practice that enhances resident satisfaction;
• A practice or activity demonstrating significantly improved access to services that enhance resident quality of life;
• A practice or activity that demonstrates measurably improved quality of care and/or quality of life;
• A practice or activity unique to the organization that is worthy of duplication in other organizations;
• Demonstration of visionary innovation impacting the organization or senior services filed through practices and findings creating shared learning opportunities.