Recognition for worker's loyalty

Leanne Cummins has been one of Doug Rushbrooke's valued staff members for 20 years.

"Leanne began with us at TASS after leaving Tokanui Hospital and has stayed with me through various business developments.

"I don't think she's even had a day off!"

At TASS she worked in the car yard washing cars and cleaning offices.

Now working with Mr Rushbrooke and Graham Smith at MTF Vehicle Finance she cleans the offices and is still enjoying the company of staff.

To honour her 20 years service Mr Rushbrooke presented Leanne with several gifts, including a silver necklace which she proudly put on straight away.

He said he felt his business and staff had gained a great deal from having Leanne as an employee for two decades and felt the town as a whole had benefitted from employing Gracelands clients.

"Leanne has always adapted to new situations, new caregivers and new workloads.

"For my staff it's been a chance to get to know someone like Leanne, while giving them opportunites to bond and improve morale.

"We've certainly learned a lot from each other and it's been good fun along the way!"

Guests were also present from Enrich+ (formerly Gracelands) where Leanne has been a longtime client.

Gracelands began in 1990 to support people with disabilities in our community.

The organisation was renamed Enrich+ earlier this year.

The focus continues to be supporting people who experience disability or who are disadvantaged in a social, educational, emotional or cultural way.