Bennett Springer's clinical skill and especially his compassionate care exemplify the kind of nurse that our patients, their families, and our staff recognize as an outstanding role model.

Bennett works with young children and teenagers who are going through extremely challenging times. Many of them have had traumatic experiences. He is aware of the impact it has on the individual as well as the whole family. He is calm, respectful and non-judgmental in his approach to everyone. He has an effective way of teaching them valuable life skills in a fun way which includes art therapy, physical activity, and engaging them with hands-on activities. He focuses on building their self-esteem by emphasizing the positive effects they are making. He uses the "Take 5" approach, and empowers the families to practice these skills at home as well.

Every day he enters with an enthusiastic attitude and greets everyone. When the child he serves sees him they light up with big smiles. He makes a point to tell each and every one of them how glad he is to see them, and what a good person they are. His positive attitude and compassion are contagious with co-workers as well. He leads by example and is a role model to all.

Last Christmas, Bennett noticed that one of the children we serve was from a family in need. He arranged through the proper channels to donate his daughters gently used bike she had outgrown, for this child's Christmas present, making it a Christmas she will always remember. Other times he has brought in gently used gloves and hats, etc. that his children have outgrown for those in need. He is always thinking of how to make things better for others.

Bennett drew a portrait of one of the students in a partnering program and presented it to her family. They were extremely moved by this act of kindness.

Bennett is a very well rounded person who displays nursing excellence in interdisciplinary relationships, technical skills, and critical thinking skills. He is a joy to work with and is a gifted caregiver.