Home Instead
2024 RISE Care Pro of the Year
Winners
Meet this year’s 10 Care Pro of the Year Award Winners—extraordinary caregivers who go above and beyond to bring compassion and exceptional care to the older adults and families they serve. This is Home Instead’s highest honor, recognizing the best among our 100,000+ Care Pros worldwide.
Explore their stories below.
Ann Latscha
Based in Coeur d'Alene, ID, Ann's caregiving journey began with her husband’s stroke, teaching her the power of compassionate support. She later cared for her mother after a fall and again for her husband after a second stroke, deepening her dedication to caregiving. Since joining her local Home Instead in 2020, she has become a trusted presence for aging adults, offering both care and emotional support.
Betty June Harp
Based in Louisville, KY, Betty June, at 90 years old, balances full-time caregiving with a vibrant social life, music, and faith. She drives long distances daily to care for her clients, determined to always be there when needed. Her warmth, patience, and dedication make her an invaluable part of her local Home Instead team.
Cheryl Hibbard
Cheryl lives in Riverside, CA. 8 years ago she picked up an AARP magazine highlighting the growing need for caregivers and decided — that was her calling. She builds deep connections, from helping hesitant clients feel at ease to learning sign language for a client with Down syndrome. Her adaptability and creativity make her a trusted Care Pro and mentor to others.
Divinagracia "Grace" Vinluan
Based in St. Louis, MO, Grace’s background in psychology and service industries led her to caregiving, where she brings advocacy and joy to her clients. She encouraged a bedbound client to regain mobility and actively engages families to provide the best care. As a mentor to fellow Care Pros, she continues to raise the standard of caregiving.
Linda Upton
Linda of Washington, NJ, is known for her dedication, compassion, and quick instincts. One winter morning, she arrived at a client’s home and found the husband trapped in freezing temperatures, staying by his side until help arrived. Whether caring for a client’s beloved dogs, offering companionship, or ensuring someone makes it to an important appointment, Linda brings warmth and reliability to everything she does.
Milton Ellison
Milton of Stevens Point, WI, has a gift for making people feel seen and valued. When he learned a client used to love woodworking, he suggested they build birdhouses together, bringing joy and purpose back into his daily life. Whether bonding with a fellow veteran over shared stories or finding small ways to brighten someone’s day, Milton goes beyond caregiving to create real connection.
Oumou Camara
Oumou of Etobicoke, ON, is known for her kindness, patience, and ability to bring comfort to those she serves. She takes the time to reminisce with clients over old photo albums, play their favorite songs, or offer quiet encouragement on tough days. Whether giving family caregivers peace of mind or brightening a client’s morning, Oumou’s presence makes a difference.
Ruby Doral
Ruby of Houston, TX, has spent nearly two decades bringing calm and reassurance to those in her care. She once helped a client with Alzheimer’s by creating a daily routine filled with music and memory games, easing their anxiety and bringing comfort to their family. Whether helping someone recover after surgery or providing a steady hand during difficult moments, Ruby approaches her work with deep care and commitment.
Thao Nguyen
Thao of Myrtle Beach, SC, is known for her kindness and reliability. A veteran with advanced Parkinson’s, mostly nonverbal, lights up and calls her his angel whenever she walks in the room. Whether stepping in when families need extra support or simply bringing a reassuring presence, Thao’s dedication never goes unnoticed.
Vera Dos Santos
Vera of Norwell, MA, finds ways to bring joy and connection to those in her care. She once bonded with a client over poetry, breaking through his hesitation to receive care by reading Emily Dickinson together. Whether singing along to Disney songs with a wheelchair-bound client or sharing a love of literature, Vera brings warmth and heart to everything she does.
