Flushing House Director of Resident Services Sandra Allen-Simms To Receive Leading Age New York 2015 Professional Of The Year Award

FLUSHING, N.Y., May 7, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Sandra Allen-Simms, Director of Resident Services of Flushing House, will receive the "2015 Professional Of The Year Award," at the Leading Age New York annual conference in Saratoga Springs, NY. The Award Luncheon takes place May 20, 2015 at the Saratoga Hilton Hotel. Leading Age New York Chairperson Emma DeVito will present the award to Ms. Simms.

According to Ms. DeVito, "Sandra's accomplishments, dedication and commitment, truly exemplify what Leading Age New York looks for when selecting professionals of the year." She is one of only two recipients to receive a Professional of the Year Award from Leading Age New York. Nominations were sought for their annual awards (there are four award categories) program to recognize the extraordinary dedication of front-line staff at member facilities, in service to older adults.

Leading Age New York represents not-for-profit, mission-driven and public continuing care providers, including nursing homes, senior housing, adult care facilities, continuing care retirement communities, assisted living and community service providers.   

As director of resident services, Ms. Simms considers herself an advocate for older adults. She knows what Flushing House has to offer, and builds relationships of trust with residents and family members, listening to them carefully, and finding out how Flushing House can serve them better. Her goal is to help older adults remain active and independent, for as long as possible. 

In 1997 she graduated from Mercy College with a Bachelor in Social Work (BSW). The same year she joined Jewish Association for Services for the Aged (JASA). In 2001 she graduated from New York University with a Masters in Social Work (MSW). She resigned from JASA in April, 2013 to become director of resident services for Flushing House.  Ms. Simms, a resident of the Bronx, is married to Barrington Simms.

"I could not have asked for a more rewarding position as director of resident services," she said. "Here, I'm broadening my background as a Social Worker and assisting, not just the residents I serve, but also the many family members who are seeking to help their aging parents.  I am most grateful to receive this great honor."

Built in 1974, Flushing House is the largest, not-for-profit, independent living retirement residence in New York State.  Visit us at: www.flushinghouse.com.

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SOURCE Flushing House