National Ceca Award Finalist at Fitz Farm

Medication Associate Among 18 Finalists Recognized for Compassionate, Resident-Focused Care

YORK, Pa. — Desiree Love, a medication associate at The Residence at Fitz Farm, has been named one of 18 finalists for the prestigious National Ceca Award, an honor recognizing exceptional caregivers across the United States and internationally.

Love joined the Fitz Farm team in October 2023 and has quickly made a meaningful impact on residents and team members alike. 

“I would like to express my sincerest gratitude for the recognition and nomination for the annual National Ceca Award, and I’m extremely grateful to be named as one of the 18 finalists nationwide,” Love said.

A passionate nursing professional, Love emphasized that the recognition reflects a shared commitment among her team.

“Nursing is a profession that I am deeply passionate about,” she said. “Receiving this recognition is both humbling and encouraging. I am grateful for the support, guidance, and teamwork that make it possible to provide the highest level of care each day. This award is a reflection not only of my efforts, but also of the collaborative environment and shared commitment to excellence that we all contribute to at Fitz Farm.”

Love also graduated at the bronze level from the IntegraCare Motivational Advancement Program (MAP), further strengthening her clinical skills and commitment to excellence in care.

“On behalf of all of us at The Residence at Fitz Farm, we are incredibly proud of Desiree Love for this well-deserved national recognition,” said Charity Cruz, Executive Operations Officer. “Her compassion, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to our residents reflect the very heart of our mission, and being named a finalist brings tremendous pride to our entire community while affirming the exceptional culture of care our team strives to deliver every day.”

Making a difference in residents’ lives is the most rewarding aspect of Love’s work.

“Caring for our residents each day is one of the most fulfilling parts of nursing and a constant reminder of why I chose this profession,” Love said. “Knowing that my compassion and attention can bring comfort, dignity, and reassurance gives my work deeper meaning and purpose.”

She added that supporting residents’ well-being is both a responsibility and a privilege.

“It is truly fulfilling to have the opportunity to positively impact the lives of the residents I serve each day,” Love said. 

Love also credited the Fitz Farm team and shared the honor with her fellow team members. 

“This recognition is not mine alone,” she said. “It reflects the teamwork, encouragement, and dedication shared by the colleagues I am fortunate to work alongside. I am proud to be a part of a Fitz Farm team that values dedication, compassion, and patient-centered care.”

The National Ceca Award is presented by the Ceca Foundation, which honors caregivers through national and international awards that extend beyond traditional recognition programs. Since 2014, the foundation has selected National Award recipients annually, highlighting care workers who stand out for their dedication and compassion. Its programs have recognized nearly 14,000 caregivers.

In recent years, the foundation has expanded its reach through partnerships with state and national associations and with Nurses for Global Impact, Inc., to recognize international caregivers. In 2024, it launched “Celebrating America’s Care Force,” a national storytelling initiative spotlighting the contributions of caregivers across hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, senior living communities, home care, and hospice organizations.

“We are proud to continue to deliver on our co-founders’ vision and mission to recognize and reward caregivers who positively impact the lives of those they care for, creating a quality and human-centric care experience,” the foundation said in a statement.

Love’s selection as a national finalist highlights not only her personal dedication, but also the compassionate culture of care at The Residence at Fitz Farm, where staff members work each day to enhance residents’ comfort, dignity and quality of life.

For more information, contact Kayla Koller, Community Relations Director, The Residence at Fitz Farm, at [email protected] or call 717.356.2870.