In recognition for living the Values of the Catholic health care group in his everyday encounters with clients in his care and those who work alongside him at St John of God Accord disability services in Victoria, Glen Melbourne was awarded the 2017 Jennifer Stratton Scholarship in March.
Glen was selected for his outstanding work as a respite team leader where he coordinates the short-term accommodation provided to clients with disabilities and their family members, who are typically full-time carers.
The Jennifer Stratton Scholarship is an annual award open to St John of God Health Care’s 14,000 employees by nomination.
Glen’s manager, Nick Pouki said that Glen does not do the bare minimum.
“He gets to know each client and their families on an individual level, helping them to set goals and develop skills to be more independent.
“This significantly improves the quality of life for clients as they feel that they are able to contribute more to society.”
The Jennifer Stratton scholarship win will send Glen on a pilgrimage to retrace the steps of the health care group’s namesake, Saint John of God and its founding Sisters of St John of God through Spain and Ireland, later this year.
Introduced in 2016, the scholarship’s inaugural recipient, Jude Savy, found the pilgrimage to be a life-changing experience, the memories from which will remain with him for the rest of his life.
Jude said that it was a truly humbling and inspirational experience.
“It is something I will cherish for its memory and its lasting impact on my perspective on life.
“I learnt more about St John of God Health Care and its rich history and how each of us, using the gifts we are given, can serve the greater good and add to our healing Mission.”
The scholarship takes the name of St John of God Health Care’s former long-serving Group Director of Mission, Jennifer Stratton.
Nominations are sought early each year and a recipient is chosen according to how well they demonstrate the Vision, Mission and Values of St John of God Health Care in their role.
Click Here to view an interview with Glen Melbourne and some of his team and clients at St John of God Accord disability services.