SHARP Direct Care Worker Awards

The Orange County Department on Aging has partnered with the community group, Senior Health Advocacy and Resource Partners of Orange County (SHARP), to recognize Direct Care Workers serving clients in Orange County, NC.  Direct care workers impact their client’s lives on a  daily basis and make a difference in our community. Each year six awards will be presented one in each of five different categories and one person will be chosen as "Direct Care Worker of the Year." 

Visit the links to the left to see previous award winners and to view last year's 2020 Direct Care Worker Award ceremony, which was held virtually on October 22. 

Nominations for 2021 honorees opens on July 7. See tabs below to learn more about award criteria for nominating a deserving direct care worker this year! (Now CLOSED) 

A hybrid  recognition ceremony will be held for award winners on Thursday, November 4, 2021 from 4:30 - 6 pm. The ceremony will be held through Zoom  at the Seymour Center (limited seating) and via live streaming. Please join us for a virtual celebration on Thursday, November 4, 2021 from 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm via ZOOM.

Please register in advance for the celebration. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

  1. Categories & Special Criteria
  2. Eligibility
  3. Selection Process
  4. Nomination Form

Awards will be given in five categories with special attention to the criteria as noted:

  • Client Impact - Frequently recognized or praised for their efforts that make an impact on the quality of their clients lives.
  • Going the Extra Mile - Passionate about providing extraordinary care to their clients in ways that exceed expectations.
  • Leadership - Serves as a role model and demonstrates teamwork and willingness to help other direct care workers and staff.
  • Longevity - Has performed work as a caregiver each year for the last 10 or more years and plans to continue working in the field.
  • Rising Star - Has been a caregiver for less than three years and demonstrates enormous promise in the profession.

If selected as an the Award Recipient the individual agrees to be represented in photographs and videos, as well as included in any and all public relations ads and media campaigns.