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Home Health Care News & Events
Upcoming Events | News Releases
Upcoming Events
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Blood Drive
Tampa, Florida Office
May 30, 2008
12 p.m. - 5 p.m. -
Free Caregiver Training
For Those Caring for a Loved One
May Through December 2008
9:30 am - 4:30 pm
Long Island / New York Offices
View Schedule of Dates and Locations
News Releases
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Utopia Honors Marcia Williams with its Fourth Annual "Caregiver of the Year" Award (May 6, 2008)
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Utopia Home Care Honors Their Employee of the Year (March 14, 2008)
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Utopia Home Care Employeees Raise Money for March of Dimes Blue Jeans for Babies (November 8, 2007)
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Grace Brathwaite - Home Care Worker of the Year (October 8, 2007)
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Utopia Home Care Helped Sponsor the Women's Expo (October 3, 2007)
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Utopia Home Care Opens New Lakeland Office (September 13, 2007)
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Utopia Home Care Offers Free Caregiver Training (July 12, 2007)
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Ones to Watch - Diane Martinez (Long Island Business News - June 8, 2007)
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Utopia Honors Monica Chung with its Third Annual 'Caregiver of the Year' Award (April 27, 2007)
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Utopia Home Care Employeees Raise Money for March of Dimes Blue Jeans for Babies (November 20, 2006)
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Utopia Home Care Opens Bridgeport Office (September 27, 2006)
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Utopia Home Care named #1 Minority-Owned Firm on Long Island (August 11, 2006)
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Hispanic Brotherhood of Rockville Centre Honors Utopia Home Care’s Manuel F. Martinez (May 10, 2006)
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Utopia Presents Mayra B. Amaya Its Second Annual "Caregiver of the Year" Award (April 4, 2006)
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Utopia Home Care named #1 Minority-Owned Firm on Long Island (November 4, 2005)
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Utopia Home Care Sponsors Children's Charity (October 10, 2005)
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Kings Park Blood Drive Collects Nearly 60 Pints (July 26, 2005)
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Utopia Home Care named #1 Staffing Service on Long Island (July 8, 2005)
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Utopia Names Ruth E. Vega Silva Its "Aide of the Year" (June 6, 2005)
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Utopia Home Care Opens New Hartford Office (February 7, 2005)
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Utopia Home Care Announces New Director of Patient Services (November 26, 2004)
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Utopia Home Care Opens New Kings Park Office (November 24, 2004)
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Utopia Home Care Participates in the Guardian Association's Expo 2004 (September 30, 2004)
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Utopia Home Care Honored at Maturity Works Job Fair for Hiring Older Workers (September 27, 2004)
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Utopia Kings Park Community Blood Drive a Huge Success (July 19, 2004)
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Congressman Israel Recognizes Utopia Home Care for Programs to Hire Older Workers (July 9, 2004)
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Utopia Home Care Offers Free Home Health Aide Training (January 7, 2004)
Utopia Honors Marcia Williams with its Fourth Annual
"Caregiver
of the Year" Award
Pictured (left to right): Angelina Martinez, Co-Founder, Utopia Home Care, Inc.; Caregiver of the Year Marcia Williams; Manny Martinez, Co-Founder and President/CEO; and Diane Martinez, Executive Vice President. Ms. Williams is seen being presented with various recognitions provided by local officials congratulating her upon her accomplishment.
(Kings Park, New York) Utopia Home Care, Inc. has named Marcia Williams of Copiague,
New York as its 2008 "Caregiver of the Year" Award recipient.
At the company's annual corporate breakfast meeting held on April 29, Utopia Home Care, President and CEO Manuel F. Martinez, Angelina Martinez, Co-Founder, and Diane Martinez, Executive Vice President presented Ms. Williams with a commemorative plaque and a check for $1,000. The presentation was made before approximately 100 staff members representing Utopia offices in New York, Connecticut and Florida.
In recognizing Marcia Williams, Ms. Martinez noted that she has been described as an outstanding employee who is an "honest, caring, and patient caregiver. She puts the patient and family at ease and is completely dependable."
Those interested in employment opportunities with Utopia Home Care, or its services, should call (631) 544-0462, or visit www.utopiahomecare.com.
Florida Offices Participated in ALS Walk
Utopia Home Care offices in Florida participated in a walk for ALS (Lou Gehrig's
disease) on Saturday, April 12, 2008 at Bright House Fields in Palm Harbor,
FL.
Utopia Home Care Honors Their Employee of the Year
(St. Petersburg, FL) In appreciation of quality service, Utopia Home Care acknowledged Trudy Faunce, Certified Nurses Aide from Lakeland, as Employee of the Year at the company’s annual spring breakfast meeting. Trudy has been a valued member of the Utopia family since 2006. Her ability to create an atmosphere of confidence, peace, and contentment in the home of patients at all hours of the day, seven days per week, has been exemplary.
"Trudy is dependable, trustworthy, and kind. She is a self motivator who always keeps in touch with our coordinators and nurses about the progress of her patients," said Coordinator, Monica Bates.
As employee of the year, Trudy Faunce, was presented with a commemorative plaque recognizing her dedication, along with a check in the amount of one thousand dollars from Manuel G. Martinez, Executive Vice President, Bob Fritz, Vice President, and Carmen Rivera-Pavone, Administrator. The family owned and operated home health care agency has over four hundred employees at offices in Lakeland, New Port Richey, Ruskin, St. Petersburg, and Tampa. Celebrating fifteen years in Florida, Utopia also announced the addition of Medicare Certification in Pasco and Pinellas counties.
Utopia Home Care Employees Raise Money
for March of Dimes Blue Jeans for Babies
On November 8th, New York Corporate employees participated in "Blue
Jeans for Babies Day," raising money for
The March of Dimes. Other employees from various branches also took
part, including many in Connecticut and Florida.
The total amount raised for The March of Dimes was $1,350 - a combination of employee donations and a matching amount from Utopia Home Care.
Utopia Home Care Employees Raise Money
for March of Dimes Blue Jeans for Babies in St. Pete
(St. Pete, FL) Celebrating Pink and Blue Jeans for Babies Day, employees at
Utopia Home Care, Inc., in St. Pete collaborated to raise awareness for The
March of Dimes. This was a company-wide event where employees could "buy" the
opportunity to wear jeans to work for $5 which is sent to the March of
Dimes.
Pictured [left-right] are Serah Hebert, Coordinator; Jamie Topolski, RN, Director of Nursing; and Evie Little, Personnel Specialist.
Grace Brathwaite - Home Care Worker of the Year Honoree
Utopia Home Care Home Care Worker of the Year nominee is Grace Brathwaite. Grace works for Utopia Home Care out of its Brooklyn office as an Home Health Aide/Personal Specialist. Since returning to Utopia in 2005, she has been a model care provider.
Grace is dependable, enjoys her job and always has a smile on her face. It is no surprise that all of her patients love her. Grace is being honored at the Annual Home Care Workers of the Year Dinner held on October 10th at the the Fashion Institute of Technology.
Utopia congratulates all the nominees, who each and every day work to improve the quality of life for the patients under their care.
Utopia Home Care Helped Sponsor the Women's Expo
Utopia Home Care was one of many sponsors at the Women's Expo at the Middle Country Library held on October 3. Pictured [middle] is Arlene Sapoff.
For more information about Utopia Home Care's services and employment opportunities call (631) 544-0462 or visit www.utopiahomecare.com.
Utopia Home Care Staff Supports Ducks' Breast Cancer Awareness Night
(Central Islip, NY) Staff members from Utopia Home Care's Riverhead location joined members of the North Fork Breast Health Coalition to lend their support during the Long Island Ducks' 2nd Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Night held at LI Ducks Stadium in Citibank Park. The Long Island Ducks sponsored the evening to help raise awareness in the fight against breast cancer on Long Island.
Pictured left to right are Amit Karsael, Beth Anziano, Susan Monroy, JoAnn Wall, Gina Rogers, Elisa Mishkin, Chrissy Leoutsakos, Bill Sauer, Barbara Boyle, Louise Monte, Donna Rennee, Dale Hoffmann, Marilyn Sauer and Arlene Duke. Alexandria Lotardo and Brianna Leoutsakos are the children seen at the forefront of the photo.
In keeping with LI Duck's tradition, representatives from each breast cancer coalition in attendance took a turn tossing out the first pitch. Elisa Mishkin, a Utopia employee from St. James, had the honor to represent the North Fork Breast Health Coalition.
For more information about Utopia Home Care's services and employment opportunities call (631) 544-0462 or visit www.utopiahomecare.com.
Utopia Home Care Opens New Lakeland Office
Office Opened to Meet Florida's Growing Need for
Quality Home Health Care Services
(Lakeland, FL) Local officials gathered to celebrate the grand opening of Utopia's new location in Lakeland, Florida. Due to Utopia's steady growth, the Lakeland office moved to a larger office that is better able to serve the area's growing need for home health care services.
Pictured are the Mayor from Chamber of Commerce (with scissors) and local business men. Also pictured (left-right) are Sandy Beach, Marketing; Bob Fritz, Vice President; Monica Bates, Personnel Specialist/Coordinator; Carmen Rivera Pavone, Administrator; Kathleen Werner, Office Manager.
Utopia Home Care Opens Ruskin Office
Office Opened to Meet Florida's Growing Need for
Quality
Home Health Care Services
(Ruskin, FL) Local officials gathered to celebrate the grand opening of Utopia's newest location in Ruskin, Florida. With the efficiencies and technology incorporated into this new office, Utopia will be better able to serve the area's growing need for home health care services.
Pictured are Sun City Center Chamber of Commerce President Elaine Brad (with scissors), Ambassadors, and a Board of Directors Rep. Also pictured (left-right) are Carmen Rivera-Pavone, adm; Jeanne Williams, Office Manager; Bob Fritz, Vice President; Cassandra Coleman, Personnel Specialist; Jamie Topolski, Director of Nursing; and Monnet Gammeter, Coordinator.
Utopia Home Care Offers Free Caregiver Training
Service to Help Long Islanders Care for Aging, Ailing or Disabled Loved Ones
Kings Park, NY Utopia Home Care, Inc. announced today that it will re-launch its caregiver training classes to residents on Long Island, free of charge, as a community service. The classes will be held at Utopia Home Care’s six Long Island locations. Utopia’s decision to offer its classes free to residents is designed to help Long Islanders meet the needs of its growing aging and disabled populations. Utopia has reformatted its free courses to make them more convenient for the caregiver. Increasingly, the public is turning to home health care agencies, or sometimes choosing to take on caretaking responsibilities themselves or a combination of both, rather than have their family member be cared for in nursing homes or other facility.
"There is a steadily growing need to teach people the skills required to take on the responsibilities of being a caregiver for members of their own family," said Manuel G. Martinez, Executive Vice President, Utopia Home Care. "Our goal as a company is to allow patients to be cared for at home, rather than at a nursing home or other facility. Most people prefer the comforts and familiar surroundings of home. Providing free caregiver training is an extension of that mission and will help to ensure that caregivers have the necessary training to properly address the care needs of their loved ones."
Four topics will be covered each day at designated Utopia locations in Nassau and Suffolk Counties: Ambulating with a person, cane, or walker; Transfers: bed to wheelchair and back, wheelchair to toilet and back; Turning and Positioning, skin care, incontinent care, and use of bedpan & urinal; and Use of a Hoyer Lift.
Click here to view the upcoming schedule.
Utopia's Website Plays a Crucial Role in Helping a Family Locate Their Great-Great Grandmother
(Clearwater, Florida) Cleo Marie Mylott was 100 years old last year when a group of employees from Utopia's Florida, New York, and Connecticut offices got together to spread some extra Mother's Day cheer at a nursing home in Clearwater, Florida. The effort was organized by Jamie Topolski, Utopia's Director of Nursing for Florida. She chose East Bay Nursing Center because Cleo, a friend and former Utopia client, now lived there.
Jamie had known Cleo for many years and was aware that the only person the centenarian kept in touch with was her 83 year old son, DeLoss. Imagine Jamie's surprise when she received a phone call a year later from a woman who identified herself as Meredith Mylott, the wife of Cleo's great grandson, Matt. She explained that her husband's grandfather, DeLoss (Cleo's son) and his wife Hazel, had recently relocated to a nursing home and had lost his mother's phone number and address in the move.
Upon "Googling" his great-grandmother's name, Matt found last year's Mother's Day article in Utopia's e-newsletter. Thanks to the newsletter, Matt and Meredith were able to get in touch with Cleo and arrange a date to go visit her in Florida. The visit gave Cleo a chance to re-unite with her family and finally get to meet her two great-great-grandsons for the first time! What a wonderful birthday present!
Those interested in employment opportunities with Utopia Home Care, or its services, should call (631) 544-0462, or visit www.utopiahomecare.com/careers.html
Ones to Watch - Diane Martinez
Member, New York State Association of Health Care Providers - Long Island Chapter
Martinez is busy enough in her role as executive vice president at Utopia Home Care, overseeing the home-care provider's six Long Island offices, but she's also a vocal advocate for the home health-care industry. Martinez has worked with federal, state and county legislators, pushing for healthy reimbursement rates and other ways of supporting home care, which she views as an affordable and hands-on approach to patient care.
View the PDF article in Long Island Business News, June 8-14, 2007.
Utopia Honors Monica Chung with its Third Annual 'Caregiver of the Year' Award
Pictured (left to right): Manny Martinez, Co-Founder and President, Utopia Home Care; Angelina Martinez, Co-Founder, Utopia; Monica Chung, 2007 Caregiver of the Year, Utopia; Legislator Vivian Viloria-Fisher; and Bob Martinez, representing Legislator Ricardo Montano.
(Kings Park, NY) Utopia Home Care, Inc. announced today that it has named Monica Chung, a Home Health Aide employed by Utopia Home Care for eight years, as its Caregiver of the Year.
At the company’s annual corporate breakfast meeting this morning, Utopia Home Care, Inc. President and CEO Manuel F. Martinez and Executive Vice President Diane Martinez presented Chung with a commemorative plaque and a check for $1,000. The presentation was made before approximately 100 staff members representing Utopia offices in New York, Connecticut and Florida.
Chung was born in Jamaica, West Indies. She came to the United States in 1979 to work as a hairdresser, but missed spending time with people the way she had as a girl. Then she used to accompany her mother and take home-cooked meals to the sick and elderly people in their community. She became a Home Health Aide in 1996 and three years later took a position at Utopia as a live-in aide.
Since then, she has worked with deep devotion in caring for a number of Utopia’s clients. One client who had been sick for 18 months refused to be with anyone but Monica. “I was giving her a bed bath and singing,” Monica said. “She looked up and I asked, ‘Do you want me to keep singing?’ She nodded, so I kept singing and stroking her head. She took her last breath as I was singing.”
One patient’s daughter described her as “epitomizing the gold standard of healthcare professionals.” She continued, “The dedication and care my mother received from Monica was above and beyond what anyone would expect from an aide in the home. She demonstrated wisdom, reliability, compassion and dedication. My family and I are forever thankful to Monica.”
Indeed, Chung is so devoted to helping people that during the weeks preceding Thanksgiving and Easter, she takes off work to prepare countless meals with her sister, a cousin and a friend. These meals are served at a church in New York City to about 200 homeless people each holiday. The group, known as “the Generous Four,” has done this for five years, footing the entire bill each time.
“Monica is not only a conscientious and dependable worker, but she is also generous and loving, showing those she cares for love and respect,” Martinez said.
Among Chung’s precious words of wisdom: “Give love and the patient will flourish.” “So many elderly people live alone… They are human and need human company.” “If you look professional, you will be treated professionally.”
Those interested in employment opportunities with Utopia Home Care, or its services, should call (631) 544-0462, or visit www.utopiahomecare.com/careers.html
Utopia's President Manuel Martinez Honored by Adelphi
at Third Annual Hispanic Heritage Celebration
(Central Islip, NY) Pictured (left-right) are Dr. Robert A. Scott, President of Adelphi University and Manuel F. Martinez, President and CEO of Utopia Home Care. Mr. Martinez was among five honorees recognized at Adelphi’s Third Annual Hispanic Heritage Celebration by the University on Saturday November 18th. Mr. Martinez earned his master’s degree in business administration from Adelphi University in 1974. Since then he, along with his wife, founded and operated Utopia Home Care Long Island’s largest minority-owned company for the past nine years.
Utopia Home Care Employees Raise Money
for March of Dimes Blue Jeans for Babies
Buttons Sold to Give Every Baby a Healthy Start in Life
(East Haven, CT) Celebrating Pink and Blue Jeans for Babies Day, employees at Utopia Home Care, Inc., in East Haven collaborated Tuesday to raise awareness and over six hundred dollars for the March of Dimes. The family owned and operated home health care agency also announced the addition of services for Maternal Child Health and High Risk Obstetrics in the Greater New Haven region. “Pink and Blue Jeans for Babies Day at Utopia Home Care proved a fun event for our East Haven office. We are pleased to have employees who work for good cause s in the community and look forward to extending our participation throughout our six Connecticut locations next year. Additionally, with our new maternal child health program, we will be better able to serve Greater New Haven residents and the area’s growing need for home health care services.,” said David C. Martinez, Executive Vice President of Utopia Home Care. Utopia Home Care of East Haven has over 100 employees providing home health care services in Branford, East Haven, Guilford, Hamden, Milford, New Haven, North Haven, Orange, and West Haven.
Utopia Home Care Opens Bridgeport Office
Pictured (left-right) are members of Utopia's Bridgeport office with Trumbull's First Selectman, Ray Baldwin; Carmen Soto, Office Coordinator, Utopia Home Care; Travis Teta, Office Manager; Brent Piepenbring, Director Of Business Development; Ray Baldwin, Trumbull First Selectman; David C. Martinez, Executive Vice President; Tammy Connors, LPN; Todd Dawid, Assistant Vice President and Administrator; Andre Grasso, Chief Financial Officer; and Bill Wronski, Supervisor of Clinical Services.
Pictured (left-right) are Travis Teta, Utopia's Bridgeport Office Manager; Todd Dawid, Assistant Vice President and Administrator; Bill Wronski, Supervisor of Clinical Services; State Representative Jack Hennessy; Brent Piepenbring, Director of Business Development; David C. Martinez, Executive Vice President; Bridgeport Manor's Social Services team of Steve Skrebutenas, Maria Santo, and Erin Pringle; and Peter Giatrelis, Marketing Manager, Utopia Home Care.
Office Opened to Meet Connecticut's
Growing Need for Quality Home Health Care Services
(Bridgeport, CT) On September 21st, local officials gathered to celebrate the grand opening of Utopia's newest location in Bridgeport, Connecticut. With the efficiencies and technology incorporated into this new office, Utopia will be better able to serve Bridgeport and Southwestern Connecticut residents and the area's growing need for home health care services.
Utopia Employee Among Breast Cancer Survivors Throwing Out First Pitch at Long Island Ducks Game For the First Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Night
(Central Islip, NY) Pictured (left-right) are Utopia employees, Louise Monte, Arlene Duke, Elisa Mishkin, Dale Hoffmann and Gina Rogers, accompanied by Mishkin’s daughter Alexandria along with Jeff Bronnekant. The group gathered at Citibank Park on September 4th to cheer on Mishkin, a breast cancer survivor. She was among several breast cancer survivors who threw out the first pitch at the Long Island Ducks First Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Night. Elisa Mishkin was among several women representing 14 breast cancer awareness organizations from across Long Island. The goal of the event was to raise awareness about the treatment and prevention of breast cancer, and to raise funds to support those organizations.
Utopia Home Care named #1 Minority-Owned Firm on Long Island
Long Island Business News, a top information source for Long Island Businesses, put Utopia Home Care on top of its list of island minority-owned or headed businesses in a recent issue dated August 11-17. Rankings were based on which firm held the most Long Island employees, Utopia ranking far ahead of the competitors with 610 employees.
Pictured below is a sample of the page. Larger sample (opens in a new window)
Utopia Employees team up to make a special Mother's Day for some moms in a nursing home in Florida
Pictured is Jamie Topolski, Director of Nursing for Florida, bringing gifts to 24 forgotten moms at East Bay Nursing Center in Florida.
This past Mother’s Day, several employees in Florida, New York and Connecticut teamed up to make a special Mother’s Day for some moms in a nursing home in Florida. Jamie Topolski, Director of Nursing for Florida had heard the idea to “Adopt- A- Mom” at a nursing home from a fellow Mary Kay Beauty Consultant. It was so easy! A call to Teresa King at East Bay Nursing Center revealed there were 24 moms who had no one to make a fuss over them on Mother’s Day. Next, Jamie put the word out in Florida that one could brighten a forgotten mom’s day for $10 and the contributions starting flowing. A quick call to buddy Larry Melton in King’s Park and things went quickly into motion in New York. And it didn't’t stop there! Larry loved the idea and wanted to spread the good will. He jumped on the phone to Patty Salvatore in our East Haven office and Connecticut immediately wanted to be a part of this worthy cause.
Here’s how it all worked…the $10 per mom donations purchased Mary Kay products at cost, a cute little bag and a giant pose able flower! Viola! Mother’s Day for forgotten moms. The good will didn’t stop there either! Proceeds were sent to the Mary Kay Ash Charitable Foundation that fights Domestic Violence and supports research to fight women’s cancers.
Pictured is Jamie Topolski, Director of Nursing for Florida, and former Utopia client, Cleo Marie Mylott, at East Bay Nursing Center in Florida where Cleo now lives.
Jamie chose East Bay Nursing Center because a former Utopia client, Cleo Marie Mylott (pictured) who just celebrated her 100th birthday in February, now lived there. On Saturday May 13th, Jamie, with the enlisted help of hubby, Richard, went to give the gifts to the “Adopted Moms” on behalf of Utopia Home Care’s employees. To be honest, Richard wasn’t all that keen on going as he’s “not used to being in these places” and they “remind him of his grandmother’s last days.” But Jamie persisted and persuaded him by having him focus on how wonderful the moms would feel; to just think of them and he’d be fine. To further persuade him, she lied and promised they’d be in and out in no time!
The hugs and kisses started with Cleo and didn’t stop until the last gift was given to a surprised and delighted mom. As they greeted each Mom with an explanation that the Mother’s Day gifts were from Utopia’s employees, Jamie would wrap the pose able flowers on their walkers or wheelchairs! What a site to look around and see the smiling faces of the flowers and “adopted moms.” But there was no “in and out” as Jamie promised. A certain reluctant husband lingered with the moms to lend an ear to their stories and a warm smile to their hearts.
“What a blessing to be a part of something like this that touched the lives of so many! I wish each and every one of my fellow employees that participated in this could have been with us to see how their loving kindness touched these moms. It was very emotional.”
Thank you to the following employees who embraced this idea and donated so generously to make a special day for these moms!
Tampa / St. Pete / New Port Richey, Florida- Michelle Mayall RN, Laurie Dougherty, Susan Yadron RN, Zoraida Santana, Joan Reedy, Edith Perilla, Suzanne Williams RN, Renee Schiele RN, Sandy Beach, Susan Skoufatos RN, Linda Snell, Serah Hebert, Bob Fritz, Carmen Rivera-Pavone, Jamie Topolski
King’s Park / Patchogue, New York- Larry Melton, Jim Kelly, Olga Roussis, Dawn DiAngelo, Vohnee White, Iris Molina, Ami Karsael, Connie Grasso
East Haven, Connecticut- Patty Salvatore, Todd Dawid, Roseann Parisi, Rich Vitali, Carol Bauscher, Jenn Bishop, Marla McGrath, Livian Reyes, Sabrina Hubbs
Long Island Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Honor Diane Martinez Contino at Their Latina Luncheon
(Lynbrook, NY) Pictured (left-right) are Celeste M. Hernandez, Executive Director of the Long Island Hispanic Chamber of Commerce; Rosa Rhoden, Chairperson of the luncheon committee; Glenis Henriquez, the Mistress of Ceremony; and Diane Martinez-Contino, Executive Vice President of Utopia Home Care. Ms. Martinez-Contino was honored as a “Woman of Distinction” for her contribution to the Hispanic business culture of Long Island. Ms. Martinez-Contino worked her way through the company’s ranks since she was hired as an office manager in 1987, progressing to an Administrator overseeing several Long Island branch offices. She is now deeply involved in many aspects of Utopia’s operation, including all of the company’s policies and procedures. Ms. Martinez-Contino serves as an Executive Vice President for the Island’s largest minority-owned business. She is also an active member of the Long Island Chapter of the Home Care Providers Association and is engaged in lobbying for various county and state bills affecting the home care industry.
Long Island Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Honor Diane Martinez Contino at Their Latina Luncheon
(Rockville Centre, NY) Pictured (left-right) are Angelina Martinez, Manuel F. Martinez’s wife and Co-Founder of Utopia Home Care; Tom Suozzi, Nassau County Executive; and Manuel F. Martinez, Co-Founder and President/CEO of Utopia Home Care, Inc. The Hispanic Brotherhood of Rockville Centre recently honored Mr. Martinez at its annual scholarship dinner in recognition of his support, commitment and dedication to the Latino community on Long Island. Mr. and Mrs. Martinez founded Utopia Home Care in 1983. Since its inception, the company has become the largest Hispanic owned company on Long Island and with over 1,500 dedicated employees, one of the Island’s largest privately owned employers.
Utopia Presents Mayra B. Amaya Its Second Annual "Caregiver of the Year" Award
Pictured (from left to right):are Manuel F. Martinez, Co-Founder, President and CEO, Utopia Home Care; Jackie Messineo, representing Brookhaven Town Councilwoman Carol Bissonette; Myra Amaya, the Utopia Home Care Aide of the Year; and Diane Martinez-Contino, Executive Vice President, Utopia Home Care at Utopia’s annual breakfast where Amaya was recognized.
(Kings Park, New York) Utopia Home Care Inc. announced today that it has named Mayra B. Amaya, a personal care aide employed by Utopia Home Care for 15 years, as its Caregiver of the Year.
At the company’s annual corporate breakfast meeting held on April 4th, Utopia Home Care, Inc. President & CEO Manuel F. Martinez, presented Amaya with a plaque and a check for $1000. The presentation was made before approximately 100 staff members representing Utopia offices in New York, Connecticut and Florida.
Mayra immigrated to the United States from El Salvador with her younger brother in 1973, when she was only 18. She immediately began working at a textile factory in Manhattan, married one year later and began a family of her own. After moving to Long Island, a friend suggested Mayra would do well taking care of people. She agreed and began taking courses to learn English and to earn her GED.
She joined Utopia Home Care in January of 1991 and has, over the years, worked with many patients; including her present patient, whom she has been with for two years. Mayra commutes every day from Mastic to Manhasset a two and a half hour drive round trip yet she is dependable and rarely late or out sick.
“She is reliable, dedicated and a person of excellent character,” said Diane Martinez-Contino Executive, Executive Vice President. Her current patient spoke very highly of her, saying, “She is very sweet, always cheerful, makes time for everyone and is just a beautiful lady who takes wonderful care of me.”
Mayra is a mother of four sons and has four grandchildren. She is very proud that all her children have gone to college, two have Batchelor Degrees, one has his Masters and her fourth son is still attending college. Like their mother, they began work early in life, while focusing on their studies. All of them received scholarships.
Many of her motherly traits serve her well in relationships with her patients. Her present patient told Utopia of Mayra’s fantastic storytelling ability. “She tells me stories and we laugh so often that the neighbors think there are more people in my apartment than just the two of us!”
“We all wish Mayra a wonderful future and thank her for her fifteen years as an exceptional caregiver”, said Mr. Martinez.
Those interested in employment opportunities with Utopia Home Care, or its services, should call (631) 544-0462.
Utopia Home Care named #1 Minority-Owned Firm on Long Island
Long Island Business News, a top information source for Long Island Businesses, put Utopia Home Care on top of its list of island minority-owned or headed businesses in a recent issue dated November 4-10. Rankings were based on which firm held the most Long Island employees, Utopia ranking far ahead of the competitors with 610 employees.
Pictured below is a sample of the page. Larger sample (opens in a new window)
Utopia Home Care Sponsors Children's Charity
Pictured (left to right) Claudia Valencia, a personnel specialist from Queens; Annemarie Rahi, the administrator for New York City; and Shakama Cofield, a coordinator from Queens, were among the Utopia Home Care employees who participated in the third annual Walk for St. Mary's Kids, on October 1. Utopia was among the sponsors of the walk, and donated $5,000 to the St. Mary's Foundation for Children.
Utopia Home Care Recognized by Long Island Working Partnership for Hiring Workers with Disabilities
October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month
Pictured (left-right) are Ella Craanen, Regional Marketing Coordinator, VESID; Diane Martinez-Contino, Executive Vice President of Utopia Home Care; Lee Stringer, Featured Speaker, Author of Grand Central Winter and Sleep Away School.; Barbara Keefe, Training Supervisor, Utopia Home Care; Arlene Sapoff, Marketing Manager, Utopia Home Care; and Thomas Rosicki, Esq., Partner, Rosicki, Rosicki & Associates.
(Kings Park, NY) Utopia Home Care, Inc. is pleased to announce they are the recipients of an award from The Long Island Working Partnership, a VESID consortium, recognizing Utopia's exemplary efforts in hiring job seekers with disabilities.
October is nationally recognized as National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Utopia, one of Long Island's leading home health care agencies was recognized during the Long Island Working Partnership's 20th Annual Awards Breakfast Celebration, Ready for Tomorrow's Jobs Today on October 7th at Huntington Hilton Hotel in Melville.
BOCES nominated Utopia Home Care "for not only hiring and including employees with disabilities in their workforce, but going the distance for persons with disabilities". Utopia Home Care, along with twenty other local Long Island companies, was recognized by the Long Island Working Partnership for demonstrating innovative hiring practices, providing work setting accommodations and generally setting an example for other regional employers with respect to the hiring of persons with disabilities.
The Long Island Working Partnership (LIWP) is a group of business leaders, state and local government representatives and community service providers, who work together with the goal of enhancing employment opportunities for those with disabilities.
"We are pleased to have been nominated to receive this distinguished recognition of our efforts to recruit and employ workers from every segment of the Long Island workforce. We strive to create a compassionate and responsive work environment for the advantage of our clients. All of our employees are committed to this goal and our hard-working, qualified and efficient workers with disabilities have set the gold standard for all us and work daily to make a positive contribution to our organization, said Diane Martinez-Contino, Executive Vice President of Utopia Home Care.
Those interested in employment opportunities with Utopia Home Care, or its services, should call (631) 544-0462.
Kings Park Blood Drive Collects Nearly 60 Pints
Pictured (left to right): Diane Martinez-Contino, Executive Vice President, Utopia Home Care; Manuel F. Martinez, President/CEO, Co-Founder, Utopia Home Care; Angelina Martinez, Co-Founder, Utopia Home Care; Cheryl Martinez, granddaughter of the Martinez' preparing to donate blood.
Area residents donated a combined 56 pints of blood at the Kings Park community blood drive, last Friday. The contributions helped ease a shortage of blood across Long Island, and added to the public's awareness of the need for donations. The drive, coordinated by Kings Park-based Utopia Home Care, took place at the Kings Park Fire Department.
Utopia Shows Support For American Troops
Pictured (from left to right): Manuel F. Martinez, Co-Founder, President and Chief Executive Officer of Utopia Home Care; Melinda Novak, Vice President of Long Island Game Farm; John Zaher, President of Public Relations and Marketing Group; David Martinez, Executive Vice President of Utopia Home Care; Linda Mendenhall-Kushner; and Brian Foley, Suffolk County Legislator (7th district).
Representatives from Utopia Home Care Inc. and other local organizations recently showed their support for American troops fighting in Iraq with a $500 donation.
Manuel F. Martinez, the Co-Founder, President and Chief Executive Officer of Utopia Home Care, presented a check for $500 to help further supply the troops.
The donation effort was coordinated by Linda Mendenhall-Kushner, a Huntington resident whose husband, Stanford, is currently serving in Iraq as a member of the New York Army National Guard 69th Infantry Regiment. Since Stanford shipped out, Mendenhall-Kushner has led a campaign to send troops donations of hard to come by items, including: snacks, DVDs and CDs.
Utopia Home Care named #1 Staffing Service on Long Island
Long Island Business News, a top information source for Long Island Businesses, put Utopia Home Care on top of its list of area staffing services in a recent issue dated July 8-14. Rankings were based on which service held the most Long Island employees, Utopia ranking far ahead of the competitors with 610 employees.
Utopia is and will remain committed to providing solid job opportunities to caring people of all types. We offer competitive pay rates, flexible full and part-time hours, paid vacations, bonuses, 401k plan and much more. At many locations we provide free training for those who want to become certified home health aides and personal care aides. Positions are available at all of our locations. Call (631) 544-6005 for further information.
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Utopia Names Ruth E. Vega Silva Its "Aide of the Year"
Pictured (from left to right): David Martinez and Diane Martinez-Contino, both Executive Vice Presidents at Utopia Home Care; Wayne Horsley, the Babylon Town Councilman; Ruth E. Vega Silva, the Utopia Home Care Aide of the Year; Angelina Martinez, Co-Founder; Manuel F. Martinez, the Co-Founder, President and Chief Executive Officer; Manuel G. Martinez, an Executive Vice President and Paul Martinez, an administrative assistant.
Ruth E. Vega Silva, who has served for 16 years as a live-in personal care aide for Utopia Home Care, recently received the company's first annual Aide of the Year Award.
Utopia President Manuel F. Martinez presented Silva with a plaque and a $500 award during the company's annual corporate breakfast, a gathering of about 75 office staff members from Utopia locations in New York, Connecticut and Florida.
In addition, Wayne Horsley, a councilman from the Town of Babylon, presented a proclamation to Silva, who resides in North Babylon.
"Ruth is sweet, caring, and good to the patients. She is an excellent aide and the families love her," Sue Riebe, Silva's nursing supervisor, said.
Silva was born in Colombia and later moved to Barbados, where she married and had two children. Her son serves in the Canada armed forces and her daughter, who fulfilled Ruth's own dream to become a nurse, serves patients in Canada.
Silva immigrated to the United States 30 years ago, and soon began to pursue her lifelong dream of caring for others. She joined the Utopia Home Care family in 1989 and became a certified live-in personal care aide.
As a live-in aide, Silva remains in the home on a 24-hour basis and is trained to provide personal care and related services, she works under the direction of the branch administrator and is supervised by a Registered Nurse and the Director of Patient Services.
Over the years, families of patients that Silva has cared for have sent letters to Utopia Home Care headquarters in Kings Park, praising her. "Ruth is a mature woman of highest character," one family wrote. "She is warmhearted, trustworthy, reliable and dedicated to her work. She was never too tired or impatient to answer our mother's calls... We are grateful to Ruth not just for caring for, but improving the quality of life for our mother in her final years."
A trademark of Silva's care has been her interest in the cultural backgrounds of her patients and the use of that knowledge to prepare delicious, yet nutritious, ethnic meals. She also entertains patients with her storytelling abilities and has often visited with patients on her days off. One family compared Silva to a combination of Mary Poppins and Mother Teresa.
Upon learning that Silva would receive the Aide of the Year Award, the family of Silva's current patient offered its praise. "Ruth is very deserving of all the recognition you can give her," the family said. "She gives the best of care with love, dedication, and utmost competency. We are very blessed to have Ruth as part of our family. Ruth has the patience of a saint, tremendous energy and a cheerful disposition. Her outstanding care has given new life to my mother who, at the age of 97, is doing better than ever, thanks to Ruth."
Utopia Home Care Opens New East Haven Office
Office Opened to Meet Connecticut's
Growing Need for Quality Home Health Care Services
Pictured (left-right) are Mike Magarian, Director of Business Development and Operations, Utopia Home Care; Mary Cacace, Director, East Haven Chamber of Commerce; Todd Dawid, Administrator, Utopia Home Care; Joanne Mallinson, President, East Haven Chamber of Commerce; Diane Martinez-Contino, Executive Vice President; Utopia Home Care; Manuel F. Martinez, President/CEO and Co-Founder, Utopia Home Care; David Martinez, Executive Vice President, Utopia Home Care; Angelina Martinez, Co-Founder, Utopia Home Care; and Manuel G. Martinez, Executive Vice President, Utopia Home Care.
(East Haven, CT) At a ceremony attended by local officials, community leaders, company leadership and employees, Utopia Home Care, Inc. officially opened its new East Haven office and held an open house to celebrate the expansion of its services to East Haven area residents. The office will serve as Utopia's Connecticut headquarters and East Haven field office and will allow the company to meet Connecticut's growing need for quality home health care services.
"We are pleased to open this new facility today with so many friends of Utopia Home Care by our side. With the efficiencies and technology incorporated into this new office, we will be better able to serve East Haven and Connecticut's residents and its growing need for home health care services.," said David Martinez, Vice President of Utopia Home Care.
Following the ceremony, guests were invited to take part in an open house. Utopia Home Care has five offices in Connecticut with over 500 employees. In addition to home health care services, it also provides Assisted Living Services at multiple locations throughout the state.
Utopia Home Care Participates in Alzheimer's Association Long Island Annual Education Conference and Expo
Pictured (left-right) are Arlene Sapoff, Marketing Manager, Utopia Home Care; Kathleen Peykar, RN, MS, Director of Patient Services, Utopia Home Care; Mary Ann Malack-Ragona, Executive Director/CEO, Alzheimer's Association; and Michele White, Program Director, Alzheimer's Association. On Wednesday, March 9th, The Alzheimer's Association held its Annual Education Conference and Expo at the Smithtown Sheraton. Sapoff and Peykar participated by presenting a workshop entitled "Home Health Care and Tips in Care Giving." For more information about the Alzheimer's Association Long Island contact (631) 580-5100 or visit www.alzheimersli.org.
Utopia Home Care Opens Bradenton Office
Pictured left to right are Amanda Grafius, coordinator; Jamie Topolski, RN, Director of Nursing; Wayne Poston, Mayor of Bradenton; Jeanne Williams, Office Manager; and Robert Fritz, VP/Administrator at the ribbon cutting for Utopia Home Care's newest office in Bradenton, Florida. Also present at the Grand Opening were Michael Scott, Chamber of Commerce; Larry Burke, Gulf Coast Business Review; Wanda Mui and Associates; several employees from Raymond James and Assocs.; and Utopia Home Health Aides.
Utopia Home Care Opens New Hartford Office
Utopia Home Care Opens New Hartford Office
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(Hartford, CT) Pictured (left-right) are Todd Dawid, Administrator, Utopia Home Care, Inc.; Hartford Councilwoman Jo Winch; David Martinez, Executive Vice President, Utopia Home Care; Angelina Martinez, Utopia Home Care Co-Founder; and Manuel F. Martinez, Utopia Home Care Co-Founder. Utopia Home Care recently held a grand opening ceremony and open house at its new Hartford branch office located at 999 Asylum Avenue, 5th Floor. The office will allow Utopia to meet the needs of Hartford's growing aging and infirm populations. In addition to home health care services, the company also provides Assisted Living Services at subsidized senior and congregate housing in several Connecticut locations. For more information about services and job opportunities with Utopia Home Care contact (860) 882-0000.
Utopia Home Care Announces New Director of Patient Services
(Kings Park, NY) - Utopia Home Care, Inc. announced today that it has promoted Kathleen Peykar, RN, MS to the position of Director of Patient Services. Peykar, a resident of Kings Park, has been with Utopia Home Care since 1998 and has held positions as Performance Improvement Coordinator and Assistant Director of Patient Services. As Director, Peykar will be overseeing the clinical operations of 21 offices in New York, Connecticut and Florida. This position was previously held by Dolores Serri for 14 years. She has stepped down to work part time as Clinical Services Advisor for the company.
Peykar received her nursing degree in England in 1968 and earned a Masters Degree from Stony Brook University with an emphasis in gerontology in 1997. After working in home care since 1992 and gaining broad experience as a field nurse and nurse supervisor, Peykar came to Utopia Home Care in 1998 as a Performance Improvement Coordinator. She later assumed the responsibilities as Assistant Director of Patient Services.
For more information about Home Health Aide or Personal Care Aide job opportunities and free training at Utopia Home Care, contact (631) 544-0462 in Suffolk County, or (516) 334-4807 in Nassau County.
Utopia Home Care Opens New Kings Park Office
Office Opened to Provide Expanded Services to Long Island's Growing Aging and Infirm Populations
(Kings Park, NY) Utopia Home Care announced today that it will hold a grand opening ceremony and open house at its new branch office located at 1 Village Plaza, Kings Park (next to Kings Park railroad station) on Friday, December 3rd, 2004 from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. with a ribbon cutting ceremony scheduled for 11:30 a.m. Information about job opportunities will also be provided.
The new office represents an expansion of services previously provided from Utopia's corporate headquarters also located in Kings Park. The office will allow Utopia to meet the needs of Long Island's growing aging and infirm populations. Currently, Utopia provides home health care services to thousands of residents. The new office brings to six the number of Utopia's Long Island branch offices.
"As we continue to grow, we invite those interested in becoming home health aides to join our growing family and our commitment to provide excellent and compassionate care," said Manuel G. Martinez, Executive Vice President, Utopia Home Care, Inc.
During the open house, refreshments and raffle prizes will be provided. Guests will be invited to take part in a free blood pressure screening. Information about job opportunities and free training classes to become Home Health Aides or Personal Care Aides will be provided. To attend the open house or to learn more about job opportunities with Utopia, contact (631) 544-0462.
Utopia Home Care Participates in the Guardian Association's Expo 2004
Utopia Home Care's Bradenton, Florida office participated in the Guardian Association of Pinellas County's Expo 2004. Pictured in front of Utopia's booth is Jeanne Williams. The Guardian Association is a 501 (c) 3 charitable organization committed to promoting a better quality of service for elders by developing and improving the capabilities of guardians and their relationship with other entities within the community.
Utopia Home Care Honored at Maturity Works Job Fair for Hiring Older Workers
Pictured (left-right) are Michael Massamino, NASA Astronaut; Mary Hines, Deputy Commissioner of the New York State Department of Labor; Elvira Lovaglio-Duncan, Program Director for the National Council on the Aging's (NCOA) Long Island office; William Wheeler, Tuskegee Airman; Manuel G. Martinez, Executive Vice President, Utopia Home Care, Inc.; and Arlene Sapoff, Marketing Manager, Utopia Home Care.
Utopia Home Care was recognized with the Best Company Award for hiring the most workers on Long Island, over the age of 55, during the past 18 months. The award was presented to Utopia by NCOA at its Maturity Works Job Fair held at the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City, New York. The Job Fair was geared towards mature workers 40 years of age and older. Utopia is an active recruiter of mature workers and offers free training for those who want to become Certified Home Health Aides.
Utopia Home Care, the largest minority owned company on Long Island, is a major sponsor of the upcoming Maturity Works Job Fair and Lifestyles Expo, which will be held on September 21, at the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City. The Fair is expected to bring more than 3,500 mature job seekers (age 40+) to the attention of 100 potential employers and other exhibitors.
Manuel F. Martinez, Utopia Home Care's president, said that Utopia Home Care is committed to hiring mature workers. He continued that Utopia is aware from experience that mature workers are highly reliable and have a strong work ethica and that it is Utopia's ongoing policy to give mature workers the opportunity to use their experience and skills—or to acquire new skills—in the home healthy care industry. To reinforce this opportunity, Utopia offers free Home Health Aide training at all of its Long Island and Queens locations.
Because of this experience, Utopia urges all Long Island industries to take advantage of the highly skilled and reliable pool of mature workers by joining them as Job Fair exhibitors. For more information about job opportunities at Utopia, contact (631) 544-0462.
Utopia Home Care Sponsorship of Maturity Works Job Fair Featured on "The Future is Seniors" Television Program
Pictured (left-right) are Eady David, Public Relations Coordinator for the National Council on the Aging's (NCOA) Long Island office; Elvira Lovaglio-Duncan, Program Director for the National Council on the Aging's (NCOA) Long Island office; and Arlene Sapoff, Marketing Manager for Utopia Home Care, Inc.
Arlene Sapoff, Marketing Manager for Utopia Home Care, recently appeared as a guest on "The Future is Seniors" public access television program produced by NCOA. She discussed Utopia Home Care's sponsorship and participation in NCOA's Maturity Works Job Fair scheduled for Tuesday, September 21, 2004 at the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City, New York. The Job Fair is geared towards mature workers 40 years of age and older. From the host to production staff, the program is produced by senior volunteers and staff. The program airs on Cablevision's Public Access Channel 20 at 10:30 a.m. on Thursdays in Nassau County, Babylon and Huntington; 4:00 p.m. on Thursdays in Smithtown, Islip and Brookhaven; and 3:30 p.m. on Saturdays in Riverhead and the east end. Utopia is an active recruiter of mature workers and offers free training for those who want to become a Certified Home Health Aides. For more information about job opportunities at Utopia contact (631) 544-0462. For more information about the Maturity Works Job Fair contact NCOA at (516) 485-5431.
Utopia Kings Park Community Blood Drive a Huge Success
Pictured (left-right) are, Bruce Doncaster, Donor Specialist, Long Island Blood Services; Manuel Martinez, Sr., President Utopia Home Care; Wayne Reichert, District Manager, Kings Park Fire Department; Jamie Ann Colangelo of Kings Park seen donating blood; Suffolk County Legislator Lynne Nowick; and Philip Sciarillo, Publisher, Smithtown Messenger.
On Friday, July 16th, Utopia Home Care, along with Suffolk County Legislator Lynne Nowick, in an effort to address the current blood shortage and elevate awareness of the need for blood donations on Long Island, sponsored a blood drive at the Kings Park Fire Department. Thanks in part to raffle donations from over 25 local businesses, the blood drive was a huge success for it helped to collect over 80 pints of blood. As a home health care agency, Utopia Home Care provides care for the aging and infirm and sees the need for blood on a daily basis.
Congressman Israel Recognizes Utopia Home Care for Programs to Hire Older Workers
Pictured (left-right) are Elvira Lovaglio-Duncan, Program Director, National Council on the Aging; Congressman Steve Israel; Diane Martinez-Contino, Executive Vice President, Utopia Home Care; Arlene Sapoff, Marketing Manager, Utopia Home Care; and Madelyn Longo, Field Nurse Supervisor, Utopia Home Care.
Israel is seen congratulating Utopia upon receiving a grant in the amount of $18,000 from the National Council on the Aging in support of its programs to recruit and hire older workers during 2003. Ms. Longo is a Utopia employee hired with the assistance of the grant. Utopia has qualified for additional grant funding in 2004 and is currently seeking persons aged 55 and older to fill various positions, including those of home health aide and personal care aide. A free training program is offered for those seeking these positions. For more information contact (631) 544-0462.
Utopia Home Care Opens Norwalk Office
Office Opened to Provide Services to Norwalk's Growing Aging and Infirm Populations
Pictured (left-right) are Connecticut General Assembly Representative Bob Duff (137th District); Manny Martinez, Jr., Executive Vice President, Utopia Home Care; David Martinez, Executive Vice President, Utopia Home Care; Alanna Kabel, Mayor's Director of Marketing and Business Development, City of Norwalk; Todd Dawid, Connecticut Administrator, Utopia Home Care.
(Norwalk, CT) At a ceremony attended by local officials, community leaders, company leadership and employees, Utopia Home Care, Inc. officially opened its new Norwalk office and held an open house to celebrate the expansion of its services to Norwalk area residents. The office will allow Utopia to meet the needs of Norwalk's growing aging and infirm populations.
"We are pleased to open this new facility today with so many friends of Utopia Home Care by our side. With the efficiencies and technology incorporated into this new office, we will be better able to serve Norwalk area residents and its growing aging and infirm populations," said David Martinez, Executive Vice President of Utopia Home Care.
Following the ceremony, guests were invited to take part in a free blood pressure clinic and were provided with tours of the new facility. The office replaces Utopia's office located at South Washington Street. Utopia Home Care has four offices in Connecticut with over 500 employees. In addition to home health care services, it also provides Assisted Living Services at subsidized senior and congregate housing around Connecticut.
Suffolk County Executive Steve Levy Recognizes Utopia Home Care for Programs to Hire Older Workers
Pictured (left-right) are Manny Martinez, Jr., Executive Vice President, Utopia Home Care; Diane Martinez-Contino, Executive Vice President, Utopia Home Care; Elvira Lovaglio-Duncan, Program Director, National Council on the Aging; Suffolk County Executive Steve Levy; Manny Martinez, Sr., President and Founder, Utopia Home Care; Arlene Sapoff, Marketing Manager, Utopia Home Care; and Madelyn Longo, Field Nurse Supervisor, Utopia Home Care.
Executive Levy is seen congratulating Utopia upon receiving a grant in the amount of $18,000 from the National Council on the Aging in support of its programs to recruit and hire older workers during 2003. Ms. Longo is a Utopia employee hired with the assistance of the grant. Utopia has qualified for additional grant funding in 2004 and offers free training programs for people seeking these positions. For more information contact (631) 544-0462.
National Council on the Aging Provides Grant to Utopia Home Care for Hiring Older Workers
Open Houses Scheduled at Various Locations to Describe Job Opportunities for Older Workers
The National Council on the Aging (NCOA) announced that Utopia Home Care, Inc. is the deserving recipient of $18,000 in grants in recognition of its programs in 2003. The programs were designed to recruit and hire older workers for Utopia Home Care's six locations in Nassau and Suffolk Counties. Utopia Home Care has also qualified to receive a grant for 2004. It is seeking persons age 55 and older to fill various positions, including those of home health care aide, personal care aide and office staff. Utopia's efforts to recruit mature workers recognizes current labor demands in a rapidly growing home health care field. They are meeting these demands by hiring older workers who are working later in life or returning to the workforce after retirement.
"We are pleased to partner with Utopia Home Care. This coincides with our efforts to encourage local businesses to hire mature workers. Utopia Home Care recognizes that older Americans have the necessary skills, commitment and strong work ethic to make a positive contribution to any organization. We applaud Utopia's efforts to recruit and hire older workers to meet their labor demands," said Elvira Lovaglio-Duncan, program director for The National Council on the Aging.
As part of its effort to hire older workers, Utopia Home Care sponsors and participates in numerous job fairs and advertises in publications that cater to older Americans. In the coming weeks it is holding open houses with the National Council on the Aging at its various Long Island locations.
"Recruiting caring and compassionate employees and making them a part of our family-owned business has been the key to our company's successful growth. We recruit new employees from every demographic and age group in our society. Over the years, our company has gained a reputation from our clients, many of whom are elderly, for our compassion and caring. Our older workers often come to us with greater experience and a special dedication for caring," said Manuel Martinez, Jr.
In recent years older workers have decided to work later in life. Due to higher costs of retirement as well as tax changes that allow seniors after age 65 to work while collecting social security benefits without incurring a tax penalty. At the same time, due to medical advances that allow for more advanced treatment at home, shorter hospital stays and greater life expectancy, providing home health services is one of the fastest growing industries on Long Island and in the country. By enhancing its programs to recruit older workers, companies such as Utopia Home Care can meet its demands for labor while providing jobs for older workers.
Utopia Home Care offers wages that are among the highest, as well as extensive employee benefits. Free ongoing training courses are provided for those who desire to become certified Home Health Aides and Personal Care Aides. Classes are regularly scheduled at all six Long Island locations and in New York City.
The National Council on the Aging and Utopia Home Care are holding open houses from 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. at Utopia Home Care's offices prior to free training courses in various locations in accordance with the following schedule: March 23 - Riverhead (631-369-5500); March 24 - Rockville Centre (516-764-3100); Babylon - April 13 (631-587-8090); Patchogue - April 14 (631-654-8006); Westbury - May 4 (631-334-4807); Kings Park - May 5 (631-544-0462). At each open house, refreshments will be provided and job opportunities will be described at Utopia Home Care and in general for workers 55 and older. The National Council on the Aging is providing many incentives for eligible older workers.
Utopia Home Care Job Opportunities Featured on "The Future is Seniors" Television Program
Pictured (sitting) are Eady David, Public Relations Coordinator for the National Council on the Aging's (NCOA) Long Island office with Arlene Sapoff, Marketing Manager for Utopia Home Care, Inc. Sapoff recently appeared as a guest on 'The Future is Seniors' public access television program produced by NCOA. She discussed job opportunities in general and for workers 55 years of age and older at Utopia Home Care. From the host to production staff, the program is produced by senior volunteers and staff. Also pictured (left-right) are Marie Trent, Wilma Willis, Pat Tropea, Cathie Koster, Peggy Concadoro and Susan Weiss. The program airs on Cablevision's Public Access Channel 20 at 10:30 a.m. on Thursdays in Nassau County, Babylon and Huntington; 4:00 p.m. on Thursdays in Smithtown, Islip and Brookhaven; and 3:30 p.m. on Saturdays in Riverhead and the east end. For more information about job opportunities at Utopia contact (631) 544-0462.
Utopia Home Care Offers Free Home Health Aide Training to Fill Growing Need for Home Care Services
Ongoing Free Training Courses Available throughout Long Island and in New York City
(Kings Park, NY) Utopia Home Care, Inc. announced that it is seeking employees in each of its service areas including, Home Health Aides, Personal Care Aides, Live-in Aides, Homemakers, Companions, Bilingual Aides (in various languages), Certified Nursing Aides, Licensed Practical Nurses, and Registered Nurses. The company offers wages that are among the highest, as well as extensive employee benefits. Free ongoing training courses are provided for those who desire to become certified Home Health Aides and Personal Care Aides. Classes are regularly scheduled at all six Long Island locations and in New York City.
Due to medical advances that allow for more advanced treatment at home, shorter hospital stays and greater life expectancy, providing home health services is one of the fastest growing industries on Long Island and in the country. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook 2002-3, employment of Home Health Aides is expected to grow 62% between 2000 and 2010 from 414,000 to 672,000.
In meeting these demands for services, Utopia has become experienced in every level of home care, including accident rehabilitation, pediatric care, elder care, treatment for patients with disabilities, as well as for those with long term and short term illness. Meeting these demands for increased services with new employees has been vital to Utopia's success. For example, Utopia has long been the leading provider of Live-In-Aides, which includes providing their transportation to and from the client's home.
"Recruiting caring and compassionate employees and making them a part of our family-owned business has been the key to our company's successful growth. We offer our employees the opportunity to begin a career in the health care industry and grow with our company, which currently has over 1350 employees," said Manuel Martinez, Jr.
With nine conveniently located offices in the New York Metro area, Utopia offers its new employees a free two-week on-going training course. In addition to full and part-time flexible schedules, employees receive paid vacations, referral bonuses, extra weekend and holiday pay, ongoing paid in-service training, a free subscription to The Home Health Aide Digest and are eligible for a 401K plan and health benefits.
Free training courses for Home Health Aides and Personal Care Aides begin on January 26th at the company's Riverhead and Rockville Center locations; February 2nd in Queens; February 17th in Babylon and Patchogue; and March 8th in Westbury, Kings Park, and Queens. Home Health Aide training classes are for two weeks. Personal Care Aide training lasts one week. For information call (631) 587-8090 (Suffolk), 516-764-3100 (Nassau) and 718-429-5221 (Queens).