One is a residential manager; the other is an administrative assistant. Respectively, Heidi Freeman and Brandi Alloway, perform different jobs for Rosewood Services Inc., yet they work toward similar goals: To improve the lives of their clients they serve and to support Rosewood’s staff. The two Rosewood employees recently were recognized as recipients of the Shining Star award, chosen by fellow Rosewood employees for their work performances last month.

Alloway’s is likely the first smiling face people see when they walk through the front door of Rosewood’s administrative building; she’s also apt to be the helpful voice who answers the telephone. Alloway balances her reception duties with those of serving as administrative assistant to the senior director, as well providing secretarial assistance to case-workers.

"Brandi does more and is more helpful than her position requires," said Rosewood senior director Vicki Schmitt. "She is always willing to help on projects and does not complain about her workload. Brandi is a quick learner and works with a good attitude. Everyone likes her and appreciates her hard work."

Alloway is engaged to Dustin Ellis, with a wedding schedule next year, in the fall. The couple has two children – a son, Degan Ellis, 4, and a daughter, Danyca Ellis, 1. Besides spending time with her family, Brandi enjoys riding motorcycles and 4-wheelers.

A three-year employee, Alloway said Rosewood is a unique place because "what we do and offer is so beneficial to those who need it." … "I enjoy working for Rosewood in the Administrative Building because it is such a family atmosphere where we all know each other very well."

As a residential manager, Freeman oversees the client homes and the staff who work there. She is charged with assuring that site-specific training is completed and that all services for home’s residents are being provided. Freeman said she likes going to each home and interacting with the clients and staff and she likes teaching people. The clients who receive services from Rosewood are "very special to me," she said.

"Heidi is always upbeat, positive and has a can-do attitude," said Freeman’s supervisor, Amanda Fellers, director of Residential Services. "Heidi is well liked by those she supervises; they feel comfortable confiding in her. They know they can rely on her."

Freeman, who has worked for Rosewood since November, is married to her husband, Chester. The Freeman’s have a 3-year-old daughter, Harleey. Heidi enjoys spending time with her family, as well as spending time in her "big veggie" garden.

Freeman said she feels honored that her co-workers think so much of her to honor her with an award. "It makes me feel appreciated and lets me realize everything I have done to help others."