Kathy Struck, Gracewell Volunteer and Amy Schultz, Gracewell Administrator were both nominated for the 2024 Leading Age Iowa Awards.
Kathy Struck was nominated for the Volunteer of the Year Award for providing significant volunteer services to Gracewell and its residents. Kathy has been an invaluable part of our Eventide Campus community for over three years, and her dedication to our residents is inspiring.
In 2022, Kathy formally took on a volunteer role as front desk concierge, but her contributions go far beyond this. She greets visitors, creates crafts, folds newsletters, and always finds time to visit residents and deliver freshly baked goods. Kathy’s warmth and generosity have made her a beloved figure at Gracewell.
What sets Kathy apart is her initiative and commitment. She does not just follow tasks— she takes them to the next level. From taking residents out to eat and shopping, to being their ‘plus one’ for special activities, Kathy actively enhances their lives. She has even led activities on her own, further showing her leadership and care.
Kathy’s most profound impact has been on a resident who is visually impaired. Gracewell resident, Marlene, states Kathy and her have become good friends.
Marlene says, “I think she’s great. She tries to read to me every day. She shares things about her family, and I share about mine. Her visits help break up the days. I know she is a busy lady, and I am so thankful she takes time for me.”
With her calm demeanor and caring personality, Kathy has become more than a volunteer at Gracewell—she is family. The residents cherish her, and so do we. Kathy’s commitment to making Gracewell a better place for everyone is a testament to her character and her dedication to service. We are truly blessed to have a volunteer like Kathy!
Amy Schultz was nominated for the Excellence in Leadership Award. With over 16 years at the Eventide Community and 9 of those as a licensed Nursing Home Administrator, Amy has proven herself as an exceptional leader, combining dedication, hands-on support, and proactive guidance. Amy’s unwavering dedication and commitment to the well-being of both her team and the residents of Gracewell make her a standout candidate for this honor.
Amy leads by example, never hesitating to pitch in with tasks such as laundry, meal trays, or even fun activities. Her willingness to step in wherever needed has earned her the respect of her team. Beyond daily tasks, Amy is always looking ahead—anticipating regulatory changes, new programs, and educational opportunities to keep the team informed and supported.
Her approachable and calm demeanor, along with her open-door policy, makes her an outstanding listener and problem solver. Amy encourages her team with positivity, creating a supportive and inclusive culture that has contributed to high employee retention at Gracewell. Her leadership was especially crucial during Gracewell’s transition to a new facility, where she provided steady guidance
through a challenging process.
Thanks to Amy’s leadership, Gracewell received several awards in 2023, including the Iowa Governor’s Award for Quality of Care and recognition as the Best Nursing Home and Best Place to Provide Memory Care in Crawford County.
Amy’s continuous support and motivation make her an exceptional leader, and we are proud to see her recognized for her outstanding contributions.
Please join us in congratulating Kathy and Amy on their well-deserved recognition & celebration!
