April 2005
Caregiver Spotlight
Clara Smith

Clara Smith joined the Chicagoland Caregivers' team in April, 2004, after working as a Certified Nursing Aide for Northwestern Hospital for nearly 20 years. Clara completed the Basic Nurse Assistant Training Program at Triton College in 1976.

Clara has worked as a 24-hour “live-in” caregiver for two of Chicagoland Caregivers' clients. She stays with the clients overnight on the weekends. She has worked with one senior who suffered from dementia for nearly a year and now works with a client who requires total care due to the effects of Parkinson's disease. Clara has combined her skills developed while working at the hospital with her warm personality to successfully motivate these seniors who are experiencing challenges with everyday living. She has done a wonderful job of handling both of these complex cases.

Clara also brings her talent for caregiving to her community, as a volunteer for CAPS (Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy) and the Chicago Public Schools.

Recently, on March 8, 2005, Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley presented Clara with a Citizenship Award in recognition for her community involvement. The City of Chicago Commission on Human Relations Advisory Council on Women invited Clara, along with leaders from around the city and world to celebrate Women's History Month.

Clara serves as President of the Evergreen Tenant's Association, as Beat facilitator of CAPS Beat 1821, as a member of the 18th District Advisory Council, as a 27th Ward Worker Bee and as a Parent Patroller for the George Manierre Elementary School.

In addition to her many community activities, Clara takes greatest pride in her accomplishment of raising a wonderful son who is presently attending Bradley University and will graduate this May.

Clara says what she likes most about working for Chicagoland Caregivers is the kindness and understanding of our staff. She also likes helping the clients, “I care about helping people – it is just in me. I have always liked helping the people who can't help themselves”, says Clara.

We are grateful to have Clara as part of the Chicagoland Caregivers' team!

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For more information on Chicagoland Caregivers', now LivHOME's, senior home care services, please call 312-633-9955 or email: info@livhome.com