Jackie Green Fischer, a recreation therapist, was an integral part of Charles E. Smith Life Communities (CESLC) for 20 years. She exemplified CESLC values through her personal dedication to caring for residents. In honor of her memory, a team member who exemplifies the same commitment is recognized with the Jackie Greene Fischer Award during the annual Employee Service Awards banquet.

This year, Stephanie Taylor, a social work case manager at Hebrew Home of Greater Washington, was honored with the award.

Stephanie Taylor receives the Jackie Greene Fischer Award

Stuart Fischer, Jackie Greene Fischer’s husband, presents Stephanie Taylor with the award.

“My life plan has always been to help others. That’s all I’ve ever wanted to do,” said Taylor.

Jerrold Michael, a resident a Hebrew Home of Greater Washington, knows firsthand how Taylor’s compassion plays into her work.

“Stephanie is the perfect person to work with because she makes sure you’re taken care of,” said Michael. “She does her job with such poise and today I am where I need to be—in long-term care.”

Michael decided to permanently transfer from a hospital to the Post-Acute Care Center at Hebrew Home of Greater Washington for physical and occupational therapy. Taylor was instrumental during his transition.

With a reputation of treating everyone with kindness and respect, Taylor’s commitment is evident to patients and fellow team members alike.

“She is warm, empathetic, kind-hearted, and capable,” said Director of Social Work Lori Saffitz. “Residents and families feel Stephanie makes everything go smoothly for them.”

Taylor says she feels proud of her legacy of giving back and hopes people will remember her for what she has accomplished.

“It was an eye opening experience to win this award,” she said. “I hope it reminds others to always do what you can for the older adults we serve.”