Over the course of three days, the Resident Services team came together for training, leadership updates, wellness sessions, and inspiring talks from guest speakers. Team members from every region connected, shared best practices, and celebrated the mission-driven impact they make every day.
Congratulations to this year’s Resident Services Award recipients, whose dedication, creativity, and compassion embody what it means to serve with heart:
The Bridge Builder
Honors team members who create strong connections among residents, staff, and community partners.
Emma Cortes and Azucena Nava were recognized for their ability to build trust, foster collaboration, and expand meaningful partnerships. Emma has created inclusive programming, strengthened community engagement, and brought new services to residents across her sites. Azucena has uplifted senior communities through strong partnerships, resident-centered programming, and compassionate advocacy, continuing this work at her new sites while mentoring her peers.
Compass Award
For guiding others through uncertainty with clarity and steady support.
Steven Cottrell and Alicia Grant were celebrated for providing direction during challenging moments. Steven supports the Nevin Plaza community with calm leadership, crisis response, and reliable communication. Alicia streamlined partnership processes and service agreements, helping staff navigate complex systems with confidence while ensuring partners could serve communities effectively.
The Growth Gardener
Recognizes those who nurture growth through mentorship and collaboration.
Christina Voeller and Natalie Villeda were honored for empowering colleagues and strengthening resident programs. Christina inspires creativity, mentors staff on tools like Canva, and supports multiple communities. Natalie provides hands-on site support, guides her team through training and mentorship, and strengthens partnerships to ensure continuity of services.
The Equity Champion
For advancing inclusion, equity, and justice across communities.
Jocelynne Leon was recognized for programming rooted in empowerment and equity, including “Know Your Rights” workshops, community collaborations, and securing multiple grants that expanded resources for residents.
The Heart of Housing
Honors someone whose compassion exemplifies the mission of affordable housing.
Helen Lee was celebrated for her daily presence and dedication at Kukui Gardens. Her work with Honolulu Community Action Program secured vital support for 68 households and strengthened the sense of community and care on site.
The Innovator Award
For bringing new ideas and creative approaches to resident services.
Danyell Manifee was honored for developing fresh, engaging programs for youth and seniors, supporting team creativity through Canva trainings, and launching the Tech Corner initiative.
The Lifeline Award
Recognizes someone who is dependable and ready to help in times of need.
Larry Adams was celebrated for his unwavering support of residents and colleagues. From transporting supplies to assisting during crises, Larry brings empathy, reliability, and leadership to every situation.
The Quiet Hero
For impactful work behind the scenes—humble, reliable, and essential.
Christine Dougan was honored for her steady commitment to residents at Markham Plaza, bridging service gaps and providing consistent, compassionate support.
Culture Keeper
For embodying and strengthening the organization’s mission and values.
Connie Chan was recognized for intentional, mission-centered programming, year-round community engagement, safety leadership, and civic participation initiatives that uplift residents and strengthen community culture.
Rising Rookie Star
For new team members who make an immediate and outstanding impact.
Naomi Marks and Carla Solis were honored for their early leadership and initiative. Naomi quickly expanded partnerships and secured grant funding in Hilo. Carla revitalized resident-driven programming, strengthened leadership among residents, and demonstrated exceptional calm and collaboration during emergencies.
The Spark Plug
Celebrates energy, positivity, and morale-boosting leadership.
Laura Hernandez was recognized for her uplifting presence, collaborative spirit, and leadership of Fresno’s monthly safety meetings, helping create an inclusive and engaging team culture.
Beyond the Call of Duty
For embodying and upholding EAH Housing’s mission in extraordinary ways.
Chris Burger was honored for advancing digital inclusion across communities, connecting residents to devices and internet access, supporting innovative tech programs, and offering dedicated guidance to both staff and residents.
