Each year, the Pennsylvania Homecare Association names a “Direct Care Worker of the Year” to honor caregivers across the state who provide outstanding care. JEVS Care at Home (JCAH) is proud to select Rafaela Mendez, a caregiver in our Lehigh Valley office, as our nominee for 2025.
Rafaela joined JCAH after moving to Pennsylvania in 2023. From our very first conversation, it was clear she would be a wonderful caregiver. Rafaela hoped to work with a client she could truly connect with and to have a steady schedule. JCAH Client Care Manager Ruth Candelario was able to match her with two clients whose needs and schedules were a great fit.
Rafaela’s first client is Dennis. She helps Dennis with daily tasks, but she also supports him in many other meaningful ways. For example, Rafaela is helping Dennis learn Spanish. They practice together every day using short conversations and a translation book. Thanks to Rafaela’s encouragement, Dennis has also learned to speak up for himself. He is now comfortable calling members of his care team when he needs support. Rafaela and Dennis share a love of music as well. She encourages him to play the piano and harmonica, and they enjoy many moments of laughter and fun together.
Rafaela’s second client is Donalee. Rafaela has played an important role in helping Donalee improve her overall health and wellness. Using her cooking skills and knowledge of nutrition, Rafaela helps Donalee make healthier food choices—Donalee says she loves Rafaela’s cooking! Rafaela also encourages Donalee to stay active and take part in daily activities. They enjoy doing light chores together, such as dusting and folding laundry. Thanks to Rafaela’s support, Donalee is maintaining a healthier weight.
Rafaela also provides strong emotional support. She is positive, encouraging, and always willing to listen as Donalee shares stories about her family, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Rafaela helps Donalee feel her best by painting her nails, fixing her hair, and helping her choose nice outfits and makeup. Once Donalee is dressed up, the two turn up the music and sing along to Elvis and other favorite songs.
Donalee’s daughter shared how important Rafaela has been to her mother:
“How do I begin? Rafaela is so thoughtful and caring. She sees what needs to be done. She makes food with love. My mom asks every night if Rafaela is coming tomorrow because she enjoys their time together so much. We are truly blessed to have Rafaela. We love her—she is part of our family!”
Rafaela is an exceptional caregiver in every way and is a true joy and blessing to her clients. Thank you, Rafaela, for all that you do! We are proud to nominate you for the 2025 Direct Care Worker of the Year award.
