Three new Thornblade winners in October

Posted October 31, 2011

Ellen Reyna, Tony Jennings, and Elda Stone recently received Tom Thornblade Awards from Opportunity Village for outstanding job performance in support of people with disabilities.

Ellen Reyna, of Eagle Grove, works as a Personal Support Professional/Med Manager at the Eagle Grove Group Home, where she started in 1991. She is not only responsible for food service in the home, but also works the night shift. Reyna was cited for helping the next shift by working ahead on cleaning and food preparation. "She is one of the joys which make being a part of Opportunity Village worthwhile," said one of her nominators. "She not only thinks of herself but of others and is always there to answer questions and listen to others' needs."

Tony Jennings, Mason City, is a shift leader at Moon Valley Cottage in Clear Lake. He has been with the Village since 2007. His supervisor said, "Tony leads through example, always taking on the most difficult parts of a job himself." Another nomination described Jennings as "open-minded, humorous, caring, flexible, and extremely understanding."

Elda Stone, Ventura, has worked in the Development Office of the Village since 1985. Her responsibilities include fundraising and public relations, such as writing newsletters and grant applications, organizing events, and designing public materials for the Village. One of the people served at the Village who nominated her said Stone represents the Village very well. "When the residents see Elda with her camera, they know they are getting their picture taken for something special."

Opportunity Village awards seven Thornblade Awards during the year to staff members who exemplify the caring and dedication demonstrated by the late Tom Thornblade, a longtime employee. The award is made possible with a gift from Mr. and Mrs. Martin Koldyke. Previous winners this year include Dee Hollatz and Cathy Dencklau.

For more information about nominating a Village employee for this award, contact Kari Wellington, 641-355-1261, kwellington@oppvill.org.

The Village, based in Clear Lake, serves more than 600 people with disabilities throughout North Iowa, providing supports for daily living, work opportunities, and training.