Former SmithLife Homecare Leader Honored with 2024 Humanitarian Award

ROCKVILLE, Md. - Dec. 12, 2024 - PRLog -- SmithLife Homecare proudly celebrates Kathleen McGuinness, a former Director of Community Relations at the company, as the recipient of the distinguished 2024 Debra Levy Humanitarian Award, presented by GROWS (Grass Roots Organization for the Well-being of Seniors). This highly respected award recognizes Kathleen's extraordinary contributions to senior care and advocacy in the Washington metropolitan area.

Kathleen McGuinness has dedicated the last ten years of her career—and retirement—to making meaningful changes in the lives of seniors and their families. As a Certified Dementia Practitioner, Senior Home Safety Specialist, and holder of a Certificate in End-of-Life Care, Kathleen embodies the values of compassion, advocacy, and education that the Debra Levy Humanitarian Award represents. Her current work as a Commissioner on the Montgomery County Commission on Aging continues to amplify her mission to improve the quality of life for seniors in the community.

Kathleen's commitment to senior care was born out of deep personal experiences managing her parents' care during challenging illnesses. Her journey began with frustration over the gaps in the healthcare system, motivating her to volunteer on the Patient and Family Advocacy Council at Suburban Hospital. She worked tirelessly to address systemic issues and became an advocate for better patient outcomes.

During her acceptance speech, Kathleen reflected on her journey:
"Caring for my mother, father and husband through lengthy illnesses taught me the importance of speaking up and advocating for change. My parents' and husband's experiences inspired me to dedicate my life to improving care for others. I only knew the mistakes I made managing their care and wanted to ensure no one else had to face those same challenges."

Kathleen's career has been marked by a deep understanding of the complexities of aging, as well as a commitment to empowering families to navigate those challenges. Her work at SmithLife Homecare set a standard of excellence in community engagement and education. She spearheaded initiatives to provide free resources, organize community presentations, and advocate for the holistic needs of seniors.

The Debra Levy Humanitarian Award honors individuals who demonstrate exceptional dedication to improving the lives of seniors. Named after a revered advocate for aging populations, this award is one of the highest recognitions in the senior care field. Kathleen's work, both professionally and in her volunteer capacities, exemplifies the values of selflessness, advocacy, and leadership that the award celebrates.

In addition to her current role as a Commissioner on the Montgomery County Commission on Aging, Kathleen serves on the Board of Directors for the Friendship Heights Neighbors Network. Her advocacy has touched countless lives and influenced senior care policies across the region.

For more information about SmithLife Homecare's services and ongoing dedication to senior care excellence, visit smithlifehomecare.com (https://www.smithlifehomecare.com/).