A single, elderly man suffering from memory loss and disorientation is safe and cared for in a residential care facility as a result of Darwin Heaton pursuing the client's best interest.
"Over a span of several months, Darwin Heaton demonstrated excellence in professionalism, decision making and problem solving skills," said Cindi Doman, who nominated him for the State Employee of the Month.
Heaton met the client, when he had moved into a motel and was eating from the restaurant next door.
His first step was to seek out the client's history with old-fashioned footwork, talking with local businesses, banks, law enforcement and healthcare.
Unfortunately, the man had not been to a doctor in seven years and the prior medical records were unavailable. Eventually, Heaton found an elderly distant relative who provided some information but was unable to assist with the client's needs.
In the interim, Heaton had organized assistance from the motel and restaurant staff to ensure Heaton had food to eat.
And Heaton regularly made well-being checks to build a rapport with the client, who was opposed to the idea of moving to a care facility.
After taking photos of a local residential facility to share with the client, he accepted the move. However, Heaton's work was not done.
He arranged for transportation so the client could get the required vaccinations to live in the facility and then to get the client moved into the residential center.
Once the client's living situation was secured, Heaton pursued a letter of incapacity, allowing the public administrator to be appointed the client's guardian.
Heaton has been an adult protective and community worker in Mexico with the senior and disability services in the Department of Health and Senior Services since 2008. Before that, he was a social services worker with the Department of Social Services in the children's division.
The State Employee of the Month is selected by the State Employee of the Month Selection Committee from among nominations submitted by the 16 state departments and some elected offices. The six committee members also are members of the State Training Advisory Council.