We are pleased to announce Marita Carracher, Family Violence Counselling Program – Practitioner, as the recipient of the Ruth Isbel Staff Excellence Award for 2023 in the South West.
The Ruth Isbel Staff Excellence Award was established in 2021 following the tragic loss of Ruth Isbel, Emma House Executive Officer who was an inspirational leader and colleague. Ruth led Emma House to provide the best service possible to women and children affected by family violence in the South West of Victoria. The Staff Excellence Award has been established in her memory and in perpetuity. Ruth is greatly missed and this award ensures that her joyful passion and commitment to build a strong organisation with passionate and capable staff will endure.
Marita was nominated by her peers for demonstrating her commitment to Emma House and their clients, highlighting her kindness and warmth. Some of the staff comments included:
Marita is the definition of warmth and kindness in my eyes. Her work ethic is second to none she goes above and beyond every single day for victim survivors all with a smile on her face and a positive attitude no matter the situation. I hope one day I can be half the person Marita is!
Marita’s commitment and dedication to Emma House spans more than 10 years and that in itself shows her passion and dedication to Emma House given its (at times) shaky history. Marita embodies the values of both Emma House and The SAFV Centre each and every day. When I think of Marita I think of someone with integrity, who respects all, and is respected by all. She is a champion for the most vulnerable in our community and is a fierce advocate for women rights and gender equality. The recovery work Marita does with women, provides real life change, assisting women to challenge their core beliefs, allowing them to see their true potential. Marita is a mentor and a role model to staff at Emma House and I believe she exhibits everything Ruth envisaged for Emma House, to achieve society where women and children live free from family violence.
