Vickie - Lead Cook

Vickie Hayes has been making a difference in the lives of Heartspring school students since April 2006 as the lead cook in the cafeteria. Vickie has been in food service since 1989 working primarily in nursing homes. Julie Noller, director of human resources, remembers interviewing Vickie. “What impressed me the most about Vickie was how she talked about the residents she served. It was evident that Vickie cared about them and understood that providing healthy meals and taking time to know each of them could make a difference.”

If you ask Vickie what she likes about working at Heartspring, she is liable to get a little teary eyed while talking about the kids. She understands the importance of her work and she loves the kids. She particularly enjoys seeing the paras work with the kids and encouraging them to try new things. “It does me good to see them learn to eat healthier more balanced diets with a greater number of food choices,” said Vickie.

Almost all of the school staff will agree that it is clear in how she performs her job that Vickie really does care about our kids. Paul Faber, executive vice president, said, “Vickie knows the students and interacts with them. Her approach to serving our students and staff has a positive impact. She always has a smile for them.”

Stephanie Taylor, one of the lead paras at Heartspring, agrees, “Vickie is always willing to adapt to help the kids. She is really good about talking to the kids, especially the students who have communication goals. She provides prompts and obviously enjoys watching them make progress.”

Lori Neel, health office manager, knows that having someone so eager to help makes a difference in the health of our students, beyond just serving the daily meals “Any time we ask for a substitution for a sick child Vickie is very accommodating,” she said. “She is always pleasant.”

Kathy Fairbanks, facilities director, who oversees the cafeteria said that Vickie is always positive, reliable, and conscientious. “She is quick to volunteer to help wherever it is needed.”

Vickie’s attitude of service is evident in her personal life, as well. She is an active member of her church, serving as a greeter, helping with special activities and “feeding the flock” on Wednesday nights.

“Vickie is a good influence at Heartspring,” said her boss, Frank Loy. “She always has a kind word and a smile for our staff and students. It goes a long way!”

Vickie says she is pleased to come to work and walk in the door each day. “If we have to go out of our way to help one of these kids to keep them healthy, I’m happy to do it.”