“We find joy and purpose in caring for our residents, sharing in their stories, and helping create happy moments each day. We are grateful to work in such a special community.”

Lisbeth Hernandez, Activities Assistant Memory Care and Tiffany Wiles, CNA, Rehab Center

It takes a dedicated team of professionals to keep a community like Lions Gate operating at the high level that it does. Every employee plays an important role in helping our residents and rehabilitation patients thrive. Two of those employees are Tiffany Wiles, CNA, in the Rehabilitation Center, and Lisbeth Hernandez, Activities Assistant in the Safe Haven Memory Care neighborhood.

Tiffany and Lisbeth have each recently been recognized for their outstanding work. Tiffany was selected as a recipient of LeadingAge New Jersey & Delaware’s Excellence in Care Giving Award for 2025; Lisbeth received the 8th Annual Rothkoff Law Elder Care Symposium 2025 Caregiver Award. Additionally, both have been recognized as Lions Gate Employees of the Month during their tenures. Both Tiffany and Lisbeth are humble about their awards, viewing the recognition not as a personal achievement but as confirmation that the work they do truly matters.

Although they work in different areas within our community, Tiffany and Lisbeth share a common commitment: bringing compassion, positivity, and purpose to the people they serve every day. For both of these exceptional women, caring for others has become a calling. And the fact that they spread joy during the process is all the better.

Tiffany became a CNA over 18 years ago after changing her career path. “I originally wanted to be a mortician,” she recalled with a laugh. “But sometimes life just takes you
in different directions.” We’re happy she did.

Shortly after receiving her certification, a friend suggested she apply for a job at Lions Gate. Even though Tiffany was unfamiliar with our community, she walked in, picked up an application, and was hired as a brand-new aide. Eighteen years later, she is still here — and treasured by residents, patients, and coworkers alike.

Over the years, Tiffany has worked in Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing, Safe Haven, and the Rehabilitation Center. Today, she helps rehabilitation patients regain strength and confidence as they prepare to return home. Whether assisting with activities of daily living, helping patients get dressed, or simply offering encouragement, she approaches each day with the same goal.

“One of Tiffany’s greatest gifts is her ability to bring comfort and joy to others,” said Meredith Becker, COO of Lions Gate. “She has earned the respect of her colleagues, the gratitude of residents, patients, and their families, as well as the respect of everyone she works with. We are incredibly proud to have her as part of the Lions Gate family.”

For Lisbeth Hernandez, working at Lions Gate has been much more than a job. Originally from a small town near Mexico City, she came to the United States with her husband and spent ten years working in the restaurant industry. Fourteen years ago, a chance conversation with our then-Activities Director led to a part-time position at Lions Gate.

What began as an unexpected opportunity quickly became something more: a career. “When I came here, and I started to see different needs, different people, I knew this was my place,” Lisbeth said. Continuing, she added, “The residents are really the ones that make my life. They’re all special to me.”

During her 14 years at Lions Gate, she has worked in Skilled Nursing, Rehabilitation, and, for the last six years, as an Activities Assistant in Safe Haven. She helps residents stay engaged through exercise programs, creative activities, music, games, and social interaction.

“Lisbeth has a remarkable ability to connect with residents and make them feel valued,” said Jennifer Quinn, Director of Activities for Assisted Living and Memory Care. “Whether she’s leading an activity, sharing a laugh, or simply listening, she brings warmth, patience, and joy to every interaction. The relationships she builds with residents are truly special.”

Those relationships remain her favorite part of the job. “The best part of working here is when the residents share their memories with me,” she said. “Memories are life.” Hearing the residents’ stories about their lives, families, careers, and experiences has given her a unique perspective on American history and culture.

Although Tiffany and Lisbeth work in different neighborhoods, both embody the values that define Lions Gate. Through compassion, dedication, and genuine love for the people they serve, they help ensure that Lions Gate remains the exceptional community it is.