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Chef at Crosby Commons in Shelton presented Humanitarian Award

Chef Hector Velez of Naugatuck, center, recently was recognized by the Connecticut Assisted Living Association./ Contributed photo

SHELTON - Chef Hector Velez from Crosby Commons at Wesley Village recently rceived the 2019 Humanitarian Award from the Connecticut Assisted Living Association at its annual meeting.
“We are so fortunate to have Hector at our Community,” said Lori Pisani, Executive Director of Crosby Commons. “He exhibits a high level of customer service. Hector is always striving to meet the residents' and their loved ones' needs and recommendations. He truly is the poster child for the best customer service.”

Velez, a Naugatuck resident, was recognized for “filling the hearts and souls” of the residents at Crosby Commons with his meals and culinary creations, the nomination submission said.
According to CALA, the Humanitarian Award is presented each year to “an individual whose personal integrity, decency, and contributions to the elderly best exemplify the ideals of our member organizations and who serves as an inspiration to all.”

Some of the reasons Velez was selected for this award include his commitment to making the culinary experiences of the Crosby Commons’ residents personalized and memorable. 

From his authentic brick oven pizzas, pig roasts, and paella, Velez has been touted by residents and family members as “Five tar.”

During the award presentation, special moments were highlighted like the surprise lobster dinner dock side after residents returned from a Lighthouse Tour in New London and his “table for two” dinner with a resident who was struggling with health issues.

Velez has been a chef at Crosby Commons for nearly seven years. He often joins with other staff and residents to do cooking demonstrations at area senior centers and participate in community cooking events. 

Velez received the Values in Action Award from the community in 2016 for his commitment to serving residents with respect and excellence.

Crosby Commons is an independent and assisted living community located on the Wesley Village
campus. Wesley Village senior living campus is located at 580 Long Hill Ave. and is part of United Methodist Homes, a local not-for-profit organization. 

The Wesley Village campus offers assisted
and independent living, memory support, skilled nursing, short-term rehab, and outpatient therapy and fitness services. 

To learn more, visit www.wesleyvillage-ct.org.

This is a press release from United Methodist Homes.