CCFCS Employee named 2025 RBJ Health Care Hero

(February 27, 2025) Rochester, NY – Catholic Charities Family and Community Services (CCFCS) is pleased to announce an exemplary employee has been named a 2025 Health Care Hero by the Rochester Business Journal.

Shandrell Dawson, R.N. oversees medical services for residents of CCFCS substance use treatment homes. The patients who turn to CCFCS for help face challenges most people cannot imagine, such as extreme poverty, homelessness, and even prison. As Nursing Services Manager, Dawson and her team help them become medically and psychologically stable as they work on their recovery from drug and alcohol use.

“Shandrell Dawson demonstrates leadership and compassionate care every day,” says Lori VanAuken, President & CEO of CCFCS. “We are proud to work with her in service to our clients throughout Rochester and surrounding counties.”

“At a time when overdose deaths are on the rise in Monroe County, our work is more important than ever,” says Dawson. “I know we can make a big difference in the lives of those who struggle with addiction. That’s why it’s so important to stay present for them as we work to create a healthier community.”

Dawson oversees a nursing team of 30 LPNs and RNs and collaborates with social workers, mental health therapists and addiction support counselors to deliver patient-centered care to 77 individuals with substance use disorders. She will be honored by the Rochester Business Journal at the Health Care Hero awards celebration at the Hyatt Regency Rochester on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at 9:30am.